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Why is a stray cat's nose disfigured, breathing hard, and losing weight?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female

Outdoor stray seemed to have breathing or stiffing issues. Outside of nose is now red & kind of toad like & completely disfigured. Has lost weight & is fairly lifeless. I took 2 pictures. I'm not sure if the kitty is a male or female. We have 6 cats in the house & feed approximately 20 strays & feral cats

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 19th, 2017

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.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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