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My cat is sick, can't afford vet. How to get free or low-cost care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 8 months and 27 days old | 12 lbs

I know my cat is sick. He is not eating and is acting off, but I am unable to take him to the vet because I do not have the money. The last cat that I had that started with some of these same symptoms had to be rushed to the emergency where he tragically passed away. Someone please help me. Is there anywhere I can take him that is free of charge or will let me pay slowly.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 11th, 2016

Try to offer Snape canned food that is warmed up. He needs to eat something, as not eating can make him ill also. Offer him small amounts often, try to hand feed him. Often a cat will eat when enticed that way. As for finances: http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_veterinary_care.html?credit=web?referrer=https://www.google.com/ also give all the vets in town a call and ask whether they have payment options. There may also be a low cost clinic in town. Ask about it. There may be pet charities you can call and ask for help.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I can give you a link of low cost clinics in the US, and you can search your area to find if there is one near you. You can also see if your vet will accept payment plans, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com

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