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My older cat won't eat or pee after new cat introduction. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 12 lbs

I introduced a 4 yr old cat to a 8 yr old cat and the older cat now hasn’t peed or eaten in a day. What can I do

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on October 8th, 2017

I would recommend that you have your older cat checked out by a vet as soon as possible. Not urinating in 24 hours could indicate a serious illness and is considered a medical emergency. It is possible that she is urinating somewhere else and is experience a lot of stress from the new cat. You should add a second litter box in a different area, and maintain separate food and water bowls to make sure she has plenty of space and privacy to eat.

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