Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is lethargic, not eating or peeing for 2 days. Is it serious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 10 months old | 8 lbs

My 2 yr old cat is lethargic, not eating or drinking or having any urine or stool output. This has been going on for 48 hrs. He will respond and walks as tho he is very sore. But only walks very briefly if moved and has so stop and rest after a few steps.

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 1st, 2017

I am sorry to hear Pistol Pete isn't feeling well. It sounds like he is painful somewhere. I recommend taking him to the vet ASAP to determine why he isn't eating or drinking. Cats can only go about 3 days without eating before they get much worse. They may need to run some blood work and xrays to determine why he isn't feeling well. Good luck and kisses to Pete!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Any male cat that is not urinating for over a day needs to be seen immediately to make sure he doesn't have a urinary obstruction. If he has a blockage the urine will back up and damage his kidneys and he can die quickly. If he's not improving please take him right in for a diagnosis and treatment. Regardless of the reason he'll need fluids to prevent dehydration and medication for pain. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Pistol Pete.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 15th, 2018

    Oh dear! Poor Munig. Not eating for 2-3 days is a serious problem in cats, as they can develop a life-threatening liver condition called hepatic lipidosis if they go a few days without food. There are many things that can cause lethargy and loss of appetite in an older cat like this, so it's hard to say what might be wrong without being able to examine her and run some tests. Some common possibilities would include a systemic illness like chronic kidney disease, a GI problem such as pancreatitis or an intestinal obstruction, or ingestion of something toxic. I would recommend taking Munig to an emergency vet today to be seen, if possible, as this may be a life-threatening issue. The veterinarian can do blood work and x-rays if needed to help diagnose the problem and get her started on appropriate treatment.

    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 dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
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