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Why is my new cat eating less and dry heaving without throwing up?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 10 lbs

About 2.5 weeks ago I adopted a shelter cat. For the past two days, he has had a decreased appetite. He hasn't been refusing to eat altogether but he eats maybe half of his normal amount. This morning a little after he ate I saw him dry heaving, like he was going to to throw up but he didn't. The first week we had him he had an ear infection in 1 ear so we gave him medicine for it then. Other than that he is his energetic and friendly self. What could be wrong?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

He could have a number of different things going on, one being either inflammatory bowel disease or a kidney problem. These are common causes of nausea and decreased appetite in an adult cats. Other possible causes are hairball, liver disease and pancreatitis. I would suggest getting him eeen by your vet and some bloodwork analysis done to help find out the underlying problem so that we know how best to treat Marco and get him well. Best wishes at the vet. Take care.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Emily, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    The dry heaving may have been Marco trying to cough up a hairball. If it continues, he starts to lose weight or has less energy than he should get checked out by a veterinarian as those are signs something more serious could be occurring. The change in food intake maybe normal for him and settling into his new home. As long as he is active, eating, using the litter box and not losing any weight he should be fine.

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