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Why does my cat have a lot of lethargy?

Why does my cat have a lot of lethargy?

If the lethargy has been going on for a while, they might show signs of weight loss or have muscle atrophy. There can be varying degrees of lethargy in cats. Some cats might be just mildly lethargic and aren’t as interested in playing or being as active as they normally are.

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 does it mean when a cat won’t eat?

Photography by aleg baranau / Shutterstock. A cat who won’t eat often means serious trouble. It is not normal for any individual to go a full day without eating when food is available, and not eating can be a symptom (kidney failure, complications of diabetes and intestinal obstruction) and a cause of (fatty liver) major health problems. 6.

Are there symptoms you should never ignore in Your Cat?

There are serious symptoms that should never be ignored in your cat. A symptom is defined as “any problem that can indicate an underlying disease” and may be your first clue to the presence of a life-threatening problem in your cat. Here is a list of 16 symptoms that should never be ignored if you see them from your cat! 1.

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.

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).

Why is my 5 year old cat not eating?

Join our community of cat lovers now to reduce ads by 90%! Click here to join for free! Not open for further replies. 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.

What to do if your cat is not eating?

Lack of eating for even a few days can lead to a serious problem called fatty liver or hepatic lipidosis. 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.

Why does my cat sleep in a different position when she is sick?

Cat Sleeping Positions When Sick (and What They Mean!) Lethargy is a common symptom of many different feline illnesses. While senior cats will naturally want to rest longer than a young adult cat, the sleeping position that a cat assumes could be a sign of sickness.

How many hours does a cat sleep in a day?

Although some cats sleep up to 20 hours during a 24-hour day, the average cat sleeps 16 hours each day. Even though cats spend so much time asleep, changes in their sleeping patterns may be a sign of a medical problem.

Why is my cat so tired all the time?

When young active cats reach their senior or geriatric years, they tend to become slower and less active in general due to arthritis, muscle loss, and other normal aging changes. How do you know if you have a lethargic cat or just a tired one?

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.

Is it normal for cats to sleep a lot?

Cats sleep a lot, to say the least. However, changes in sleeping pattern along with other symptoms to watch out for could indicate that your cat may need some medical attention. So, is your cat sleeping a lot more than she should be?

Cat Sleeping Positions When Sick (and What They Mean!) Lethargy is a common symptom of many different feline illnesses. While senior cats will naturally want to rest longer than a young adult cat, the sleeping position that a cat assumes could be a sign of sickness.

Why does my cat oversleep all the time?

If oversleeping is accompanied by other signs such as loss of appetite, avoidance, and other unusual behavior, this could mean that your cat is suffering from depression. Feline depression, however, is not the same as clinical depression in humans.

Where does a lethargic cat hide in the House?

Many lethargic cats will hide in a quiet dark place such as under the bed or in a closet. They tend to prefer areas away from people and other pets. Lethargy is not a form of illness itself. Instead, it is usually a symptom of a health condition.

Do you feel guilty if your cat doesn’t show symptoms?

But owners should not feel guilty if they fail to recognize these subtleties — cats don’t come with warning labels, and a person who doesn’t know the symptoms can’t be expected to recognize them (and, by definition, subtle symptoms are hard to recognize).

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.

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.

What does it mean when your cat stops self grooming?

In fact, on average, cats clean themselves during half of their waking hours. So if your cat has suddenly stopped self-grooming, this can be a sign that something is very wrong, and they may need to go to the vet right away.

Many lethargic cats will hide in a quiet dark place such as under the bed or in a closet. They tend to prefer areas away from people and other pets. Lethargy is not a form of illness itself. Instead, it is usually a symptom of a health condition.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances – Any condition that adversely affects the stomach or intestine can cause lethargy. Vomiting, diarrhea and constipation may also be present or the cat may stop eating or drinking. Nausea may also prevent your cat from eating and that lack of food energy will result in lethargy.

Why does my cat have so much diarrhea?

Identifying what’s causing your cat’s diarrhea is the first step in figuring out how to stop it. Understanding the reason for diarrhea will also help pet parents prevent it from happening again. A common reason for diarrhea is a change in diet. Many pet owners know what it’s like to have a picky eater on their hands.

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 cat vomiting and not eating?

A foreign body stuck in your cat is then referred to as an obstruction. An obstruction won’t let food pass through the digestive tract and therefore your cat may vomit, then most likely stop eating. Some foreign bodies can pass through your cat’s system, simply causing some vomiting and diarrhea, but also a lack of appetite.

Why does my cat constantly have diarrhea?

General Causes. Numerous things can lead to constant diarrhea in your cat. These are infections, inflammations, dietary intolerance or allergies, cancers or partial obstruction of the bowel.

What should you give a cat with diarrhea?

What to feed a cat with diarrhea Shredded boneless boiled chicken , cooked without salt or other seasoning. Boiled rice and rice water, cooked without salt. In the market there are special commercial food for cats with diarrhea which is also a good solution if you do not want the cat to try another type of

Why does my cat have watery poop?

Diarrhea typically consists of watery stool that may contain blood or mucus, depending on its cause. There may be several causes of diarrhea in cats, including irritable bowel syndrome; viral, bacterial or fungal infection; or dietary problems.

What should you do if your kitten has diarrhea?

A kitten with diarrhea should be fed bland foods like plain yogurt or rice with cooked ground beef. Grapefruit seed extract (a few drops in the food) or a bit of fiber supplements can also help a kitten overcome his stomach problems.

Why is my cat not eating or drinking?

However once he was at his feet, he’d just slowly walk over to the nearest corner and lay down. He won’t even eat or drink. We currently feed him on Wellness and Nutro Max and sometimes Blue. He’s normally a picky eater so the only thing he eats without question and hesitation is Fancy Feast.

How long does it take for an old cat to die?

However, it will be the frequency and severity of these conditions that determine your cat’s overall state. The Home to Heaven pet hospice service lists several signs that indicate a cat may be within a few days to a few hours of death. These include: Geriatric cats can die from several types of medical conditions.

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.

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 old cat not eating anything?

Your old cat may not be able to eat because his teeth are aging and it will end up with his kibbles being too hard to chew.

Is it normal for a cat to go a day without eating?

It is not normal for any individual to go a full day without eating when food is available, and not eating can be a symptom (kidney failure, complications of diabetes and intestinal obstruction) and a cause of (fatty liver) major health problems. 6. Protracted vomiting and/or diarrhea

How to diagnose loss of appetite in cats?

Loss of Appetite in Cats 1 It is crucial to address the loss of your cat’s appetite,… 2 Symptoms of Loss of Appetite in Cats. Although the clearest sign that your cat is not eating is… 3 Causes of Loss of Appetite in Cats. There are several potential issues that can cause a cat… 4 Diagnosis of Loss of Appetite in Cats. Due to…

What to do for a lethargic cat at home?

Provide the cat with plenty of enrichment such as toys, laser, playtime, scratching posts, cat trees, cat grass, etc. Try veterinary recommended cat-specific pheromones or calming supplements. Remove any sources of stress that can be removed.

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.

How do I get my Cat to stop drooling?

Many illnesses related to drooling can be prevented by brushing your cat’s teeth once a day, but make sure to use toothpaste that is made for cats. To avoid heat stroke, always have fresh water available as well as nearby shady spots for your cat to cool off.

What makes a cat all of a sudden start drooling?

Causes of excessive drooling in a cat Dental disease. Dental diseases always cause severe inflammatory processes that can spread to the throat. Oral cancer. Oral or mouth cancers in cats are not as common as dental inflammation, but they do occur. Respiratory problems. Drooling due to poisoning. Direct trauma to the mouth. Presence of foreign bodies in the mouth. Fear and anxiety.

What does excessive drooling in cats indicate?

Since drooling is rarely normal in cats, it can indicate a severe medical issue . If you notice your cat drooling suddenly, here are some of the causes: Dental disease is regularly an explanation. In such cases, cats drool to soothe the irritation in their mouths or throats. If swallowing hurts, your cat may leak saliva out of its mouth.

Why does my Cat stop eating and sleeping?

This can make your cat feel ill and stop eating. It may be contagious to other cats in your home. Your vet may recommend medications to help your cat recover faster. Ear debris or discharge might mean your cat has an ear infection or even parasites like ear mites. Waiting to address this may cause the eardrum to become affected.

Is it bad to force a sick cat to eat?

Trying to force your cat to eat is detrimental to their needs at the time, and probably a source of irritability for them. A healthy cat can survive for many weeks without food. This may not be ideal, but I am just trying to ensure people caring for a sick cat get their priorities right. It’s more important to focus on the ‘why’ it happened.

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.

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.

What do you do for a cat that is lethargic?

Common treatments prescribed for cats with lethargy according to their respective causes are: Antibiotics for bacterial infection Dewormer for parasites or heartworm Surgery for removal of tumors or to repair injury Antiviral medication for viruses Antidepressants for depression or stress Diet and insulin for treatment of diabetes

Why is my cat being so affectionate lately?

Sudden affection from your cat typically occurs for three reasons. 1/ A need for love and attention 2/ A desire for specific wants and needs to be met 3/ Increased level of anxiety and distress.

What causes lethargy in cats?

Common causes of lethargy in cats include: Parasitic infection. Stress. Obesity. Excess feeding. Low exercise.

What causes cats to breathe heavy and have a loss of appetite?

Without much room to expand and contract, the lungs become compromised, leading to difficulty breathing and a decrease in appetite. Kitties with cardiomyopathy usually have a heart murmur and abnormal heartbeat. They may also develop blood clots that can lead to paralysis of their back legs as well.

What to do if your cat is breathing heavy?

Your vet can examine and stabilize your sick kitty. If your furry friend has lost her appetite and appears to be breathing heavy, she could be very ill and needs veterinary attention right away. These symptoms can indicate a variety of very serious medical conditions, many of which can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Is it normal for cats to breathe heavy during pregnancy?

Cats sometimes breathe heavily when they’re going into labor, but otherwise, heavy breathing is not a typical occurrence during pregnancy. If you haven’t already, now is a good time to schedule a talk with a veterinarian.

What does it mean when a cat is Panting and breathing heavy?

Dyspnea in Cats. It is unusual to see a cat pant or breathing heavy, but it does occur when a cat is having respiratory distress (dyspnea). A panting cat does not look that different from a panting dog.

Without much room to expand and contract, the lungs become compromised, leading to difficulty breathing and a decrease in appetite. Kitties with cardiomyopathy usually have a heart murmur and abnormal heartbeat. They may also develop blood clots that can lead to paralysis of their back legs as well.

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.

Your vet can examine and stabilize your sick kitty. If your furry friend has lost her appetite and appears to be breathing heavy, she could be very ill and needs veterinary attention right away. These symptoms can indicate a variety of very serious medical conditions, many of which can be fatal if not treated quickly.

Join our community of cat lovers now to reduce ads by 90%! Click here to join for free! Not open for further replies. 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.

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.

Can a veterinarian diagnose a lethargic cat?

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.

Is there anything a cat should not eat?

Cats should not eat onions, garlic, shallots, chives, or other foods that contain thiosulphate, a compound that can cause serious problems. When enough is eaten, the thiosulphate causes destruction of their red blood cells, a devastating condition called hemolytic anemia .

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

A cat can live up to two weeks without eating as long as she is still drinking water. But if the cat is also not drinking water, she won’t live for more than a few days. And also remember not eating for a day or two can have a negative and permanent damage that may plague them for the rest of their lives.

Why does my cat drool when I Pet her?

Cat drooling when purring is usually a happy sign. When your cat is purring whilst being petted, it means she is relishing the touch and attention. When your cat is drooling whilst you’re petting her, you should take it as a compliment.

Why does my Cat Feel Sick all the time?

Kidney disease has many causes, but the result is that the cat’s kidneys become unable to properly filter waste from the blood. The buildup of these waste products makes your cat feel sick. Signs like lethargy, weight loss, increased drinking and urinating and incontinence occur.

Why has my Cat started drooling excessively?

If your cat starts drooling excessively, it could be a sign of problems with its digestive health. Any food or digestive problem causing nausea can cause the onset of drooling behavior. Inflammatory bowel disease, infections, or cancerous polyps might cause severe complications in your cat’s digestive system, resulting in drooling.

Why does my cat not jump up on things?

If you notice your cat is reluctant to jump up on things that were easy for her to reach before, or she seems to be jumping differently, there could be a medical reason. A noticeable change in the cat’s gait could also be a sign of a sick cat. Cats are generally clean animals, grooming themselves much of the time they are awake.

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.

Why is my cat acting weird all the time?

A cat acting weird might be depressed. Remember how you felt the last time you got dumped? You stayed in bed all day, didn’t change your clothes, and ate only when your mom called and insisted that she was going to come over if you didn’t shove some food into your face right now.

Can a cat be sick before its owner realizes it?

Unfortunately, this also means a cat may be very sick before the owner realizes something is wrong.

Why is my cat limping and not eating?

Finally, there is a chance that pain from the leg injury is contributing to the lethargy and poor appetite. Animals that are in significant pain will often display these symptoms. Speaking of the leg injury, let’s talk about that limping.

Why does my cat not eat or drink?

Other issues, such as liver problems, complications of diabetes, infections, and certain types of cancer can cause cats to stop eating. Finally, there is a chance that pain from the leg injury is contributing to the lethargy and poor appetite.

Is it normal for a cat to be limping?

However, she is acting completely normal – eating, drinking, pooping, and even running around and jumping up her cat tree onto her shelves up high. I also picked her up and investigated her paws – she let me touch them and look at the nails, pad, etc. and didn’t seem to be in pain when I touched them.

Why does my Cat stop eating and drinking?

Accompanying gingivitis and stomatitis can make for a painful mouth and sensitivity when eating or drinking. Cat with dental disease or infections might stop eating, become lethargic, have bad breath, have difficulty chewing, and may grind or chatter their teeth.

Finally, there is a chance that pain from the leg injury is contributing to the lethargy and poor appetite. Animals that are in significant pain will often display these symptoms. Speaking of the leg injury, let’s talk about that limping.

What happens if a sick cat does not drink?

Dehydration is the most obvious concern when a cat does not drink. Dehydration is always dangerous in sick cats. Water helps blood flow around a cat’s body. This, in turn, keeps organs working appropriately. A sick cat may also be running a fever. This heightened body temperature will increase the need to hydrate.