Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My cat with HCM has ATE, is in pain, not eating or urinating.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 7 years and 2 months old | 17 lbs

My 7 year old cat was diagnosed with HCM (in addition to heart disease and other related issues) yesterday, after sudden ATE - she lost use of both her back legs. Today she was discharged, and we have her home attempting recovery with meds. She hasn't eaten or urinated for over 36 hours, and is yowling loudly in pain when she attempts to move. She has been able to roll herself over, and seems to want to use her back legs, but is making the most painful yelps. Is there anything I can do for her?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

Veterinarian

Published on March 28th, 2017

ATE is an extremely painful condition. This level of pain can be difficult to manage at home (even if your vet has prescribed oral pain medications) and Louise may need to be re-hospitalized in order for her to have some pain relief. Additionally, I am concerned about the fact that she has not urinated in 36 hours. This can be life threatening because it can lead to an enlarged bladder and possibly even a bladder rupture. The only way to alleviate this is by bladder expression (which needs to be done by a veterinary professional) or by placement of a urinary catheter. Finally, if Louise is not eating she could develop hepatic lipidosis, a potentially life threatening metabolic process that occurs when cats do not eat. The only way to prevent this is through force feeding or through placement of a feeding tube. Given all these factors, I think Louise's condition would be better managed if she were back in the hospital.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Christie Long, DVM

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on

    I am very concerned that Louise has thrown a clot from her heart, which is a pretty common follow on problem to HCM. It it exceptionally painful and she needs emergency care immediately. Sometimes blood thinners can be used to try to break up the clot, but she needs to be hospitalized to try to treat her pain during this process. Please take her in immediately.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
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
image
Have A Vet Question?

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

Book Now

Sponsored