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My 5-week-old kitten is lethargic, throwing up, and can't walk well.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 24 days old | 1lb

I have a Medical question. My 5 week old kitten is lethargic, sleeping all day, cries when you touch her, she threw up, not eating, and is not acting herself. My husband said s she's not walking with her back legs very Well.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 18th, 2017

Kittens are susceptible to many different infections, both viral & bacterial. A heavy parasite burden from coccidia, or roundworms can also wear a kitten down & leave it weak. Pascal is too young & small to try & fight this off on his own. He needs to be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible. If you can not have him seen tonight or tomorrow, pick up some Nutrical from Petco tomorrow, & try to give him small amount frequently throughout the day. This is a high calorie supplement to hopefully keep his energy up. Then please try to have him seen by your veterinarian as early as possible on Monday. I hope he does better soon. Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

    Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

    Published on March 30th, 2018

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Vomiting, lethargy and decreased appetite can occur from many conditions such as foreign body ingestion and obstruction, pancreatitis, gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, among other possibilities. I recommend that you have him evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. This will likely require bloodwork and abdominal imaging in terms of diagnostics. Treatment would be based on findings. At the very least your veterinarian could start him on medications to make him feel better. In the meantime, keep water available at all times to try to prevent dehydration. Good luck and have a good day!

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