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My cat is sick, not eating or drinking. When is it an emergency?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

I brought her to the vet yesterday because she was showing signs of lethargy, barely eating, and staying on the floor only. We are waiting for test results for the xray and blood test. She was prescribed buprenex for pain and mirataz to help with eating. My cat has barely eaten, drank, or had bowel movement for the past 48 hours. When is it an emergency?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 22nd, 2019

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Sansa. I'm sorry she is so sick. Her symptoms are an emergency now. It's actually very serious when a cat won't eat or drink, and she needs veterinary care right away. Please take her into one immediately. Best of luck.

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