When to take your cat to the vet for lethargy?

When to take your cat to the vet for lethargy?

Lethargy is a symptom that can be caused by many different problems, some minor and some more serious. Contact your vet if they have been lethargic for more than 24 hours or book an urgent appointment if they are severely lethargic. Cats save energy for hunting which means they often sleep for 12-16 hours a day (or more).

What are the symptoms of a lethargic cat?

A lethargic cat will have an extended period of weakness, depression, or lack of energy. Even after a nice long nap or relaxing sunbathe, these cats will continue to be tired and not as active as they normally are. Cats with lethargy are sick and typically there are other warning signs that something is wrong.

Why is my 5 year old cat so lethargic?

My 5 year old male cat was fine yesterday morning. However something must have taken effect overnight. This morning he is completely lethargic. He won’t get up from his spot and keeps sleeping. He seems almost lifeless and barely responsive.

Why is my lethargic cat not eating anything?

I’m in tears because I can’t stand knowing he’s in pain and how he was so sweet yesterday morning and so expressive and lively and now he’s completely the opposite. If you have an emergency vet available, I think I’d get him in asap – not wait until tomorrow.

What are the symptoms of lethargy in cats?

Symptoms of lethargy in cats are abnormal sleepiness, low energy, and lack of response to surroundings. Lethargy is not a condition or disease in itself, but can be a sign that something is wrong with your cat. Lethargy is a symptom in itself and is characterized primarily by the following:

My 5 year old male cat was fine yesterday morning. However something must have taken effect overnight. This morning he is completely lethargic. He won’t get up from his spot and keeps sleeping. He seems almost lifeless and barely responsive.

Is there a cure for lethargy in cats?

Diagnosis is complicated as there are many possible causes of lethargy in cats which range from mild to severe, as lethargy is a symptom of most illnesses and disorders. Your veterinarian will require a complete medical history of your cat including detailed description of symptoms in order to narrow down a possible cause.

I’m in tears because I can’t stand knowing he’s in pain and how he was so sweet yesterday morning and so expressive and lively and now he’s completely the opposite. If you have an emergency vet available, I think I’d get him in asap – not wait until tomorrow.

How is my cat doing in the morning?

This morning he is completely lethargic. He won’t get up from his spot and keeps sleeping. He seems almost lifeless and barely responsive. I would set him on his feet to have a feel of his ribs and stomach, checked his limbs, mouth, ears and they seem fine ( from what I can).

Signs of lethargy in cats include playing less, hiding or shying away from human contact, eating less and not grooming itself properly. Lethargy is not a very specific symptom and can be present in many different conditions. In order to identify what is causing lethargy we have to take into consideration other symptoms the cat may be showing.

This morning he is completely lethargic. He won’t get up from his spot and keeps sleeping. He seems almost lifeless and barely responsive. I would set him on his feet to have a feel of his ribs and stomach, checked his limbs, mouth, ears and they seem fine ( from what I can).

What does it mean when a kitten is lethargic?

Young cats and kittens are normally hugely playful, with abundant energy, so when a kitten becomes lethargic it is a cause of concern. As cats age, their energy slows down. They tend to sleep more and enjoy the good things in life, such as sun bathing and watching the world go by.

What to do if your cat is lethargic after a bite?

Obesity: The right combination of diet and exercise can help your cat combat obesity—and the accompanying low energy levels. Rabies: The third and final stage of rabies, before death, is called the paralytic stage—occurring usually a week after a bite from an infected animal, and can look similar to lethargy.

Why does my cat sleep for 16 hours a day?

Cats save energy for hunting which means they often sleep for 12-16 hours a day (or more). However, if your cat is sleeping more than usual it could be a sign that something is wrong. Lethargy can be caused by many different conditions ranging from a simple cat bite abscess to more serious problems such as kidney disease, diabetes or poisoning.

Lethargy is a symptom that can be caused by many different problems, some minor and some more serious. Contact your vet if they have been lethargic for more than 24 hours or book an urgent appointment if they are severely lethargic. Cats save energy for hunting which means they often sleep for 12-16 hours a day (or more).

Young cats and kittens are normally hugely playful, with abundant energy, so when a kitten becomes lethargic it is a cause of concern. As cats age, their energy slows down. They tend to sleep more and enjoy the good things in life, such as sun bathing and watching the world go by.

Cats save energy for hunting which means they often sleep for 12-16 hours a day (or more). However, if your cat is sleeping more than usual it could be a sign that something is wrong. Lethargy can be caused by many different conditions ranging from a simple cat bite abscess to more serious problems such as kidney disease, diabetes or poisoning.

What should I do if my cat is not eating or drinking?

My cat is lethargic and not eating or drinking. What should I do? These sounds worrying.If cat is not eating for more then 72 hours hepatic lipidosis (liver damage) can develop and also after two days of not drinking your cat must be dehydrated by now.You should take your cat to the vet for examination and proper treatment. Was this answer helpful?

A lethargic cat will have an extended period of weakness, depression, or lack of energy. Even after a nice long nap or relaxing sunbathe, these cats will continue to be tired and not as active as they normally are. Cats with lethargy are sick and typically there are other warning signs that something is wrong.

What causes a lethargic cat to stop eating?

Cat with dental disease or infections might stop eating, become lethargic, have bad breath, have difficulty chewing, and may grind or chatter their teeth. There are several different neurologic diseases that can affect cats from spinal cord injuries to seizures.

What causes a dog or cat to be lethargic?

Bourquin believes that a permanent absence of a loved one – either a human or another animal — can leave a dog or cat feeling depressed and, thus, lethargic. This can last for a few days or, depending on how close the animal was to the deceased, can change behavior long-term.

What are the symptoms of lethargy in kittens?

Often, the symptoms start as eating poorly or not gaining weight. Kittens may exhibit signs of lethargy, a cool body, trouble breathing, or meowing in distress. If you see this, call your veterinarian right away and do your best to keep the kitten warm.

What does it mean when your cat is lethargic?

Lethargy is an indication of your cat not feeling well and could relate to a relatively minor medical condition or could be a sign of a more serious illness. Careful investigation by your veterinarian will be required to narrow down the cause.

Can a cat be a symptom of a disease?

Lethargy is not a condition or disease in itself, but can be a sign that something is wrong with your cat. Lethargy is a symptom in itself and is characterized primarily by the following: In addition, there may be specific symptoms present that are indicative of a specific medical disease or condition.

Why do cats not know they are dying?

Many any pet owners assume cats must know they are dying because many hide in the days or hours before death. In Cat World, Desmond Morris explains that cats don’t understand death or know they are dying, because a cat has no concept of its own death and so it cannot anticipate it, no matter how ill it feels.

What does it mean when a cat is lethargic?

However, a lethargic cat may indicate that something is wrong. Lethargy could signal a mild, passing condition — or a serious cause for alarm. A solid way to find out if you’ve got a lethargic cat with serious issues on your hands? Try to play with your kitty. If he is uninterested in playing with his favorite toy, there could be a problem.

Can a lethargic dog be a problem?

Even healthy dogs and cats can appear lethargic, according to Boston Veterinary Clinic owner Dr. Brian Bourquin, any increased signs of inactivity in your pet can be indicative of a larger problem.

Why do cats hide the signs of illness?

Therefore, cats have evolved to hide signs of illness. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. Unfortunately, this also means a cat may be very sick before the owner realizes something is wrong.

However, a lethargic cat may indicate that something is wrong. Lethargy could signal a mild, passing condition — or a serious cause for alarm. A solid way to find out if you’ve got a lethargic cat with serious issues on your hands? Try to play with your kitty. If he is uninterested in playing with his favorite toy, there could be a problem.

Even healthy dogs and cats can appear lethargic, according to Boston Veterinary Clinic owner Dr. Brian Bourquin, any increased signs of inactivity in your pet can be indicative of a larger problem.

Therefore, cats have evolved to hide signs of illness. This means that in the early stages of illness, often the only thing that a cat owner may notice is that the cat has become quiet and withdrawn. Unfortunately, this also means a cat may be very sick before the owner realizes something is wrong.

What makes an older cat tired and lethargic?

Older cats are prone to chronic kidney disease or failure. This disease is a progressive loss of kidney function and often cats appear weak, frail, or tired and sometimes vomit, drink more than normal, or urinate more than normal. Liver and gall bladder diseases can also make cats sick and lethargic.

When is it time to let your cat go?

Sometimes a dying cat will experience serious gastrointestinal near the end of their life. Whether it’s due to a chronic medical condition or not, these symptoms can cause a serious drop in their overall health. If your cat is experiencing chronic vomiting or diarrhea in their old age, it may be time to let them go.

Older cats are prone to chronic kidney disease or failure. This disease is a progressive loss of kidney function and often cats appear weak, frail, or tired and sometimes vomit, drink more than normal, or urinate more than normal. Liver and gall bladder diseases can also make cats sick and lethargic.

My cat is lethargic and not eating or drinking. What should I do? These sounds worrying.If cat is not eating for more then 72 hours hepatic lipidosis (liver damage) can develop and also after two days of not drinking your cat must be dehydrated by now.You should take your cat to the vet for examination and proper treatment. Was this answer helpful?

What causes a cat to be lethargic at night?

Less common but serious conditions that could cause lethargy in your cat are: Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical upon presentation of a lethargic cat. Diagnosis is complicated as there are many possible causes of lethargy in cats which range from mild to severe, as lethargy is a symptom of most illnesses and disorders.

Less common but serious conditions that could cause lethargy in your cat are: Your veterinarian will perform a complete physical upon presentation of a lethargic cat. Diagnosis is complicated as there are many possible causes of lethargy in cats which range from mild to severe, as lethargy is a symptom of most illnesses and disorders.

What to do when your cat is lethargic should you worry?

Try to ensure it is safe. If you have all these factors covered, then if your cat is lethargic, and there is no obvious reason that requires immediate attention, then give your cat some time (quiet) to see if they can heal themselves. One vet told me four days was a good bench mark to go by.

Why does my cat sleep all the time?

Cats are great at many things, and sleeping is at the top of the list. However, it is possible that a cat can sleep too much, which may be the result of lethargy. Is your kitty just taking a cat nap or could something else be going on?

What causes a cat to die without any symptoms?

Some cat owners will simply find their cat dead without any indication of symptoms. The most common heart disease in cats is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition resulting in an abnormally thickened heart muscle. Feline heartworm disease can also cause sudden death.

What causes a cat to be lethargic all the time?

Obesity. Infection with a minor common virus such as cat flu. Other more serious conditions that are common in cats and cause lethargy are: Diabetes. Viral infections such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) Bacterial infection.

Obesity: The right combination of diet and exercise can help your cat combat obesity—and the accompanying low energy levels. Rabies: The third and final stage of rabies, before death, is called the paralytic stage—occurring usually a week after a bite from an infected animal, and can look similar to lethargy.

Some cat owners will simply find their cat dead without any indication of symptoms. The most common heart disease in cats is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition resulting in an abnormally thickened heart muscle. Feline heartworm disease can also cause sudden death.

What should I do if my cat won’t eat?

Not eating is a serious matter in cats. They cannot go more than a… Our cat will not eat or drink and she is lethargic. Not eating is a serious matter in cats. They cannot go more than a few days without eating or they risk liver damage. Your cat needs to be seen by your vet right away for an exam and bloodwork to…

Why is my new kitten not eating?

The new kitten not eating can also be down to painful teeth or gums. Kittens can have teething pain just like babies. Sore gums are uncomfortable enough to keep your pet away from the food bowl. Contact the vet for a check-up to rule out this possibility. Kittens often refuse to eat when they’re not feeling well.

Why is my cat not eating or drinking?

Losing appetite on cats can vary from kidney failure, infection, pancreatitis and even cancer. The new environment that is causing your cat to stop eating or drinking because of stress. Changes to their regular routine and home space can cause them to lose their appetite.

What should you do if your cat is lethargic?

General treatment of the symptom lethargy often includes an improved diet and supplements , such as iron supplements for anemia. It may also include intravenous fluids or oxygen therapy if required. Rest is also prescribed for lethargic cats that require it.

Why is my elderly cat not eating?

Another common cause for cats, particularly older cats, not to eat is kidney disease. Like GI problems, kidney disease causes nausea which will cause your cat not to eat.

Lethargy is not a condition or disease in itself, but can be a sign that something is wrong with your cat. Lethargy is a symptom in itself and is characterized primarily by the following: In addition, there may be specific symptoms present that are indicative of a specific medical disease or condition.

Is it normal for a dog to be lethargic?

Though most pets spend the rest of their hours playing, eating and walking, a lot of the time, they’re likely just sitting around. Even healthy dogs and cats can appear lethargic, according to Boston Veterinary Clinic owner Dr. Brian Bourquin, any increased signs of inactivity in your pet can be indicative of a larger problem.

Cat with dental disease or infections might stop eating, become lethargic, have bad breath, have difficulty chewing, and may grind or chatter their teeth. There are several different neurologic diseases that can affect cats from spinal cord injuries to seizures.

A cat with little or no energy compared to their usual behavior is a lethargic cat. There are many different causes of lethargy in cats and while sometimes lethargy can signal a behavioral issue, most of the time this is your cat’s way of telling you they are sick.

When to take your cat to the vet?

If your cat is looking listless and is experiencing any of the symptoms below, it’s time to visit the vet. Anemia: Look for pale gums and listlessness, which can result from anemic cats having too few red blood cells to deliver oxygen to their bodies’ tissues.

What to do if your cat is lethargic?

If you suspect your cat is lethargic because of a gastrointestinal problem it is best that you have your cat examined by your veterinarian right away. Urinary/Kidney Disease – Urinary tract and kidney disease are relatively common in the cat. Lethargy is a common sign associated with these disorders.

Why does my cat have a fever and is lethargic?

Heavy worm burdens can affect your cat’s digestive and immune systems. If your cat is showing signs of infection along with lethargy and/or fever you should contact your veterinarian to have them examined.

What does it mean when a cat won’t eat?

When a cat will not eat and is lethargic, it can signify a serious problem, according to WebMD, and can be caused by illness, as a side effect of a recent vaccination, traveling to unfamiliar surroundings or even due to a psychological problem or being finicky.

A cat with little or no energy compared to their usual behavior is a lethargic cat. There are many different causes of lethargy in cats and while sometimes lethargy can signal a behavioral issue, most of the time this is your cat’s way of telling you they are sick.

What causes lethargy in cats and what to do about it?

Other more serious conditions that are common in cats and cause lethargy are: Diabetes. Viral infections such as feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) or feline leukemia virus (FeLV) Bacterial infection. Abscesses from bites by other cats. Musculoskeletal injury. Heartworm. Anemia.

Why does my cat have a hard time breathing?

Respiratory infection: As you might expect, respiratory infections in cats make it difficult for a cat to breathe, which could cause panting. “The cause is usually viral but development of a secondary bacterial infection would warrant antibiotics,” Cottrell says.

However, if your cat is sleeping more than usual it could be a sign that something is wrong. Lethargy can be caused by many different conditions ranging from a simple cat bite abscess to more serious problems such as kidney disease, diabetes or poisoning.

Not eating is a serious matter in cats. They cannot go more than a… Our cat will not eat or drink and she is lethargic. Not eating is a serious matter in cats. They cannot go more than a few days without eating or they risk liver damage. Your cat needs to be seen by your vet right away for an exam and bloodwork to…

What happens when a cat is tired all the time?

A tired cat will sleep more but once awake will play, run around, explore, and behave normally while also still eating and drinking. Tired cats are only tired for a short period of time.

How long does it take for a cat to die?

Dying in cats is a process which can take weeks or months. This article looks at common signs a cat is nearing the end of life and how you can help.

How to tell if your cat is dying of old age?

Telltale Signs an Old Cat Is Dying 1 Indications a Cat Is Dying of Old Age. According to the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine,… 2 Signs of Death for Specific Diseases. Geriatric cats can die from several types… 3 Treatment Considerations. The severity of your cat’s symptoms will increase during… 4 The Aging Cat. When a cat ages,…

What are the signs of an older cat getting sick?

Increased appetite may also be a concern, especially if it comes on suddenly in an older cat. Hypothyroidism may be the explanation, but your vet will need to run tests to be sure. Increased appetite should not be ignored, even in younger cats.

Lethargy is an indication of your cat not feeling well and could relate to a relatively minor medical condition or could be a sign of a more serious illness. Careful investigation by your veterinarian will be required to narrow down the cause.

Why does my cat not want to eat or drink?

In its early stages, kidney failure causes increased thirst combined with weight loss. However, as the disease progresses, it can lead to a crisis in which the affected cat becomes profoundly lethargic because she feels too sick to move. The cat may lose interest in food and water because she feels nauseated…

How long can a cat go without eating or drinking?

How long can a cat go without eating or drinking? No bowel movement for five days. Will see vet only if in pain. No howling, just lethargic. She is going to pass away — but how many days longer? No water, just dips her nose in it and gets startled. Help! People with terminally sick cats often ask me whether their pet is in pain.

What should I do if my Kitten doesn’t eat?

Contact your veterinarian if your kitten has not eaten for one to two days or if your adult cat has not eaten in two days. Adult cats, especially those that are overweight, can develop a serious disease called hepatic lipidosis if they stop eating, so prompt action is important.

My cat, Tom, is lethargic, breathing heavily while laying down, won’t eat or drink water, and is shedding more fur than usual. What should I do?

How long can a sick cat go without eating and drinking?

How Long Can a Sick Cat Go without Eating and Drinking? Written by Richard Parker Healthy cats can survive for 1 week (or more) without food, and just 3 days without water consumption.