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Why is my senior cat suddenly refusing food and acting withdrawn?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Wirehair | Female | spayed | 12 years and 7 months old

My cat, Rosie is 12 years old. She normally loves cuddles, food and is normally indoors. She’s always wanting cuddles no matter what time of the day! However today she wasn’t inside which was unusual, so I brought her in and she’s not wanting any cuddles, attention, is refusing food and has been sitting next to the fire for hours. Is this normal?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on November 13th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Rosie. Doesn't sound like this is normal from what you have described. If this abnormal behavior continues, and especially if she continues to refuse food, then you need to have her evaluated by your veterinarian. Your vet can get a detailed history, perform a physical examination, and recommend a diagnostic/treatment plan. A minimum database would be fecal/blood/urine tests and possibly some x-rays. Many things could contribute to this including pain, fever, toxin exposure, infection, among others. Good luck with Rosie.

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