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Why isn't my cat eating, but she still drinks water and licks vitamins?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Male | unneutered

My cat is not eating, but whenever I give her vitamins she will lick it and drink water.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 6th, 2019

I would take Crinkles into a vet immediately. It's actually quite serious when a cat won't eat, and if they go long enough without eating, they develop a fatty liver. A fatty liver is fatal without treatment. Anorexia is a very general sign of illness and it can be caused by things such as dental problems, systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. Please take him into a vet now.

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    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor Crinkles. There are many reasons that will make a pet not want to eat. They can range from parasites to pancreatitis to cancer. Not eating is generally a sign of illness. If it continues beyond 24 hours or if the pet appears to be in distress, I recommend to see the veterinarian. The doctor will perform a physical exam and may recommend some lab work to check kidney, liver and pancreatic values. Sometimes other diagnostics are needed as well. Try to bring a fresh stool sample into the visit in case the doctor is suspicious of parasites. Encourage him to drink water as dehydration can set in quickly. encourage him to drink water as dehydration can set in quickly. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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