Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat has bad breath, is weak, and won't eat or drink. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 3 months old

Cats breath smells very bad. He won't eat or drink anything. Is weak and can barley walk.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 13th, 2016

Poor cat. He is very young to have so many health concerns. Your kitty's symptoms are almost indicative of "shock" symptoms and this is very concerning. Based on the severity of your cats condition I am highly recommending you take him to your vet asap for some blood tests, physical exam and medical intervention at this point to help stabilize him. I am suspicious of a congenital kidney defect here if the breathe is acidotic. I hope that you get him the care he needs soon and that he can recover from this. Best wishes!

Vote icon

9Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    He needs to be examined by your veterinarian. He may have periodontal disease or kidney disease. He is young for both but there are congenital conditions that can present at his age. At the very least, supportive care is required if he is unable to eat or drink on his own.

    Vote icon

    8Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jenny, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 5th, 2018

    Some of these symptoms are consist with kidney diseases or ulcers and stomatitis is the mouth or a viral infection such as feline leukemia and aids. Since it is has been so long he needs to see a vet for testing and to see if he is dehydrated. They can look in his mouth and do a simple blood test to check the rest for you to determine the best course of treatments

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My degu lost teeth after an accident. How can I feed him soft foods?
Your degu had an accident, lost teeth, and can't eat hard food. A Petco Vet Tech offers crucial advice on immediate vet care and how to feed your injured degu.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored