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My cat hasn't pooped in 24 hours and won't eat. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 3 years and 7 months old | 30 lbs

My cat hasn't pooped in almost 24 hours and hasn't eaten in almost 15 hours. Is there anything I can give her or do I have to let it pass by itself? She's not that active but she is still moving around like normal.

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1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Makenzie Kurth, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 17th, 2018

I’m sorry to hear about Sapphire! If she is not vomiting and is drinking water, you can try a dose or two of laxatone: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/tomlyn-laxatone-tuna-flavored-hairball-lubricant This helps with mild constipation, especially due to hairballs. You can also try ONE dose of miralax liquid (regular human strength. Give 1/4 tsp by mouth once. (If there are other things going on it could worsen dehydration so do NOT give more than one dose just in case). But the truth is, once Sapphire goes 24 hours without eating, it’s time to see the vet. At that point we have to consider something else like a fever, infection, injury, organ disease, toxin etc. Even if it is regular old constipation, an enema or stronger laxative may be needed. Do no under any circumstance try to give an enema to Sapphire at home. I hope this helps and best of luck to you and Sapphire!

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