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My cat is weak, lethargic, throwing up, and won't eat. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Male | unneutered | 13 lbs

My cat prince over the last day and a half is very weak and lethargic. He has been throwing up a few times a day and has no interest in eating or drinking. I've tried to give him food and water but he wont eat or drink. When he tries to walk hes very weak. And he meows a slow meow. I gave him some treats a few days ago that we've had for a while (over 6 months) and was wondering if he perhaps got sick from those. I'm sure he's dehydrated. Please help.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 12th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Prince! From your pictures his eyes are a bit more dilated than normal. I am worried about your description of his symptoms. Has he been urinating? How old is he? It is possible that the old treats have caused an upset stop but it is probably a bit unlikely. I highly recommend having him seen today when your Vet opens, especially if you haven't seen him urinate since he started getting sick. Not being able to urinate for male cats is an emergency. Other possibilities are: viral or bacterial infection, toxin ingestion or he ate something causing a blockage. If he is old I would worry about kidney or liver disease and cancer. I wish you and Prince the best!

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    Answered By Rodrigo Roca, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 29th, 2018

    Hello, I am very sorry to hear about Prince. It sounds like Prince is very sick. Vomiting can be a sign of a variety of disease processes both within or outside the GI tract. Additionally weakness and decreased appetite could be secondary to many things such as low blood pressure, pain, etc. I would recommend having Prince evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible to perform an examination and diagnostics such as a blood pressure check and blood work. It sounds like Prince’s symptoms have progressed quite quickly so I would recommended consulting with an ER practice if your regular office is closed. Hope this helps, good luck!

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