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Why is my old cat congested, sneezing, and rapidly losing weight?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Siberian | Male | 16 years and 11 months old | 11.5 lbs
I have a 17 year old cat that is very congested and is sneezing alot it was an no and off thing now its not going away also he was 15 pounds two months ago now hes about 11 to 12 pounds
5 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Laura Johnson VMD
Veterinarian
Published on January 12th, 2018
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!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpfulRelated Answers from Veterinarians
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on December 12th, 2018
Cinnamon is lovely looking cat! I'd take her into a vet today or tomorrow. Given that it's really cold, her nasal passages could be dried out, leading to trauma to the nasal passages when sneezing and the subsequent bleeding. Senior cats can also have problems with their health such as kidney failure, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and cancer causing weight loss. I think it's a good idea to have a heath check done as well as a geriatric blood panel and urinalysis. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on December 28th, 2019
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Benny. His symptoms are worrisome. He needs to see a veterinarian to determine if he has a severe chronic respiratory infection or something more severe such as a nasal tumor. Antibiotics may help the sneezing. If not, I worry that it is a fungal infection or a tumor. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on June 17th, 2019
There are three very common diseases in older cats that can all be easily ruled in/out with simple blood testing.
1. kidney disease
2. hyperthyroidism
3. diabetes
I suggest you get Sammy to the vet to get the blood testing done so you can find out what is going on with her so she can get the appropriate treatment.2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jessica Desrosiers
Veterinary Technician
Published on August 30th, 2018
Poor Grazee! It sounds like she isn't feeling well, as hiding or avoiding people can often be a sign of pain or illness. If she is also vomiting and not wanting to eat or drink, this also points to an underlying illness or issue causing her discomfort. I would bring her into a vet, especially if she doesn't want to eat or drink for more than a day, to have her examined for any issues. You can also try to entice her to eat a little by warming up some wet food or boiled chicken as cats tend to be encouraged by smells rather than flavors, however if she continues to vomit or not eat/drink, vet care is needed.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful