Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

Why is my cat lethargic, not eating, not drinking, with a big stomach?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | neutered | 15 lbs

My cat is not eating and his stomach is big. He ia not drinking water and he is lounging arounding. Whats wrong with him.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on November 2nd, 2017

I would be worried that Myloe is sick. A bloated abdomen can indicated ileus, pancreatitis, general gastritis, blockage or neoplasia. Since it is a long list with varying degrees of severity, I would recommend to take him in for an exam to see if a cause can be determined. The veterinarian will likely recommend blood work and possibly radiographs. Since he is not drinking, dehydration can set in with a day so I would take him to the veterinarians today. Good luck with Myloe!

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Lauren Kennedy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    There could be several things causing your cat to be anorexic. When a cat stops eating it is usually an indication of some underlying illness. Specifically with the distended abdomen I would be concerned about intestinal parasites, a foreign body and blockage or possibly fluid in the abdomen. You can try to entice Myloe to eat with something like plain boiled chicken, tuna fish, or baby food. If he goes without eating for more than 24 hours then I would recommend taking him to see your veterinarian. Your vet may want to perform lab work and possibly X-rays to determine the underlying cause of Myloe’s inappetance. At the very least your vet can prescribe some nausea medication that may help him start eating again. I hope this helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Best of luck!

    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