Why is my cat breathing hard, nose plugged, and rapidly losing weight?

Oh no, this poor little stray! From the picture, it appears it could have a squamous cell carcinoma. This is a malignant cancer that can be occur on white parts of a cat's body, especially the face. It is likely having trouble breathing because the cancer has eaten away at the structures underneath. This will be painful for the poor kitty, and it has to see a vet immediately. In this case, given the extent of the tumor and the fact that it is lifeless and has lost weight, humane euthanasia may be the best option but since I can't see it in person, I can't say for certain. I can say for certain that leaving it in this condition would be cruel, and it should see a vet now. I'm sorry I don't have better news for you, but please take it into a vet right away.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Andrew! Causes of nasal congestion are: upper respiratory infection either viral or bacteria, fungal infections, and cancer. If the congestion has been going on for awhile he should be evaluated and at a minimum started on antibiotics. The weight loss concerns me in an older cat. I recommend full blood work: CBC/Chem/T4 and urine. Common causes of weight loss in older cats are: kidney or liver disease, hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), diabetes and cancer. I would take him in to your Vet for an exam and blood work. I hope this helps and I wish Andrew the best!

Oh dear! Poor Prince. I'm afraid these are very concerning symptoms. This does sound like a life-threatening problem, so I would recommend taking him to an emergency vet tonight to be seen. If this isn't possible, then he needs to see your regular veterinarian first thing in the morning. He will likely need blood work and x-rays to help diagnose the problem and see what can be done to help.

He may have an upper respiratory infection, which is quite common in cats. It is hard to say for sure without examining him myself. You can try using a humidifier to break up any mucous. As an alternative you can place him in the bathroom with the shower running for 5-10 minutes 2 x daily. However he ultimately will likely need antibiotics to clear up any bacterial infection that may be present. I would also recommend getting him on antiviral medication (I.e. lysine powder or gel from your local pet store or vet clinic) to treat for a suspected underlying viral infection. I hope your kitty feels better soon. Best wishes and take care.

Coughing, congestion, sneezing, lack of appetite, discharge from the eyes and nose, and lethargy can be signs of a respiratory infection in cats. When cats can't smell their food, they won't eat, and that may be why he is losing weight. Gently warm really smelly wet food such as sardine or fish based. I would also take him into a vet now to get checked out, as he sounds really sick to me. Best of luck.

This is an emergency. I'm sorry that there is not a near by vet but your cat needs to be seen by a veterinarian immediately. I worry if you wait, things may just get worse. Please call the nearest ER and ask them for advice on the best way to get your cat to them.

Shelby most likely has an upper respiratory infection or viral cold. This can cause nasal congestion and poor appetite. I recommended you take a warm cloth and clean her nose as the nasal discharge can clog up the nostrils causing the mouth breathing. Also if you warm up wet food, fish is best, it will make it more appetizing as the heat will enhance the aroma of the food. That should help to,stimulate her appetite. If Shelby isn't better soon please take her in for treatment. As she's tiny I don't want her to be sick long as she doesn't have much body reserves. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Shelby.