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Why is my senior cat lethargic, not eating, and has teary eyes?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 18 years and 9 months old | 7 lbs

I have an 18 y/o cat. He’s been fine until recently. Two days ago he started to become sluggish, he’s gotten worse rather than better. He is lerhargic and won’t eat or drink. We’ve been syringe feeding/watering him. He has hypertension and hypothyroidism and is on medication for it. He also has teary eyes and doesn’t seem able to close them all the way. He doesn’t seem to be in pain. I don’t know what is wrong. We can’t go to the vet right now due to conditions. What do you think it could be?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on December 10th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite and lethargy can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. This may have to do with the blood pressure given his history of hypertension. I recommend that you have Beverly evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery!

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