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Why is my cat suddenly lethargic but still eating and drinking?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 11 lbs

My cat (1 year old) has suddenly become very lethargic and sleeps constantly non stop all day and night. As far as we know she is eating and drinking like normal. What could this be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2017

Poor Meredith! Lethargy is a very general sign of illness in cats, and it can be caused by systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. Given that she is eating and drinking as normal, I would monitor her for now. If she is still lethargic in another 24-48 hours, I would have her seen by a vet. Should she stop eating or drink, or develops other signs such as vomiting and diarrhea, I would have her seen by a vet right away.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 18th, 2016

    Poor kitty! Lethargy is a very general sign of illness, and it can be a symptoms of systemic disease, infection, injury, or inflammation. It is good that he is eating and drinking fine, so I would monitor him for now. Let him stay inside if he likes, especially if it's cold outside. Keep an eye on him for the next 48 hours, and if he's still lethargic after that time period, then I would take him into the vet for a health check.

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