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My cat is lethargic and not eating after vet shots. Side effect?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Female | spayed | 4 years and 8 months old | 11 lbs

I took my 4 year-old cat to see the vet 5 days ago because she was overgrooming a certain spot where I could start to see through it. The vet gave her Convenia and Depomedrol injections. Starting 3 days ago, my cat started to show signs of lethargy and not eating as much. This morning, she didn't wake me up for food and didn't eat at all. She sits at the base of her cat tree instead of higher up. Could this be a side effect of the injections?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

Published on March 21st, 2019

Poor Sansa! It is possible these clinical signs are related to the injections. Steroids can make pets have many side effects and upset stomach is one of them. The antibiotic is typically better tolerated but it can also make pets have a upset stomach as well. It’s also possible this is coincidental. I recommend to call the veterinarian and alert them as to what you were seeing. They may ask to see Sansa to check her for a fever or other evidence of illness. Make sure Sansa eats and drinks today. You may try offering her some palatable canned cat food with some extra water added. If she continues to be a lethargic or not eating or drinking for 24 hours, she should be seen by the veterinarian as dehydration can settle in quickly. I hope she starts feeling better quickly and please feel free to post any additional questions.

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