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My 9-week-old kitten won't eat, losing weight. Is a vet visit urgent?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female

Hey! I have a 9 week old kitten that recently (past week) started to eat less food. She's lost a lot of weight compared to the rest of the litter and has stunted growth. She will eat but only after grabbing her and placing her in front of the food over and over again, with her taking a few bites at a time and then quickly losing interest. Is a vet visit nessesary or any tips? Thanks!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 6th, 2018

Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Yes I would recommend a visit to the vet. Any weight loss in a kitten is severe. She might have a virus, a congenital malformation, intestinal worms, etc. I recommend trying to encourage her to eat, but ideally she needs to see a vet right away. Best of luck with Yume, I hope she feels better soon!

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