Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Already a member? Sign in
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My cat won't eat and is losing weight. Is this a medical issue?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 10 months and 30 days old | 4.8 lbs

My cat is being very picky about her food. As in I can't seem to find what she'll eat. I put out 5 DIFFERENT kinds of food for her when I leave for work and I come home to full bowls. I'm starting to worry. She's losing weight and just will not eat

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Elva Ma DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 31st, 2018

Hello, and thank you for your question. Disinterest in food and weight loss are red flags, and I would be concerned with a medical issue causing these symptoms. I would recommend a visit with your veterinarian in the next 24 hours. They can perform a head to toe examination, assess for pain or discomfort, dehydration, or fever. Possible causes include infection, pancreatitis, gastric foreign body, or inflammatory bowel disease. Your vet may recommend blood work or ultrasound to help reach a diagnosis. In the meantime, continue to offer different types of food and free access to fresh water. Monitor for any vomiting or loose stools. I hope this helps, and that Kika feels better soon.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Oneal Bogan, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 10th, 2018

    Hi there. Patches could have many things causing her symptoms, including a obstruction in her GI tract, kidney disease, food allergies or an infection. Not eating can be very serious in cats and Patches needs to be examined as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to diagnose what is wrong with her and help find a way to get her to feel better. I hope that helps. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

    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
Is Purina Layer Pellets good for chickens? What other feeds exist?
Is Purina Layer Pellets the right choice for your flock? Get expert advice from a Petco veterinarian on Purina and other top chicken feed brands for your chickens.
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
Food & Nutrition
My mice eat all their food together from one bowl. Is this normal?
Do your mice quickly eat together from one bowl? A Licensed Vet Tech explains normal mouse eating behavior and when to watch for aggression. Get expert insights.
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