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Why is my cat not eating, losing weight, lethargic, and struggling to breathe?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 7 years and 9 months old | 9 lbs

My cat is not eating. Has lost a lot of weight that he is now just skin and bone over a few days from being a very plump and healthy cat. I can not pick him up as he cries to much. He seems lethargic and out of breath. Please can you help me?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By John C. Gicking, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on July 21st, 2018

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Your cat sounds very sick. You should take him to a veterinarian as soon as possible. Being out of breath could mean a problem with the heart, lungs, or even blood issues such as anemia or other problems. Unfortunately, there isn't anything I can recommend on the the internet. He needs to be assessed by a veterinarian in person.

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