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Why is my cat sneezing, lethargic, squinting, and not eating well?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 15 lbs

My cat who is about 5yrs. old has been sneezing a little and is very lethargic, not acting like herself at all. She is squinting her eyes and licking her lips a lot. She felt like she had a fever last night and she is eating and drinking some but doesn't act as in to it as usual.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 28th, 2019

Hello. You are describing Heidi with an upper respiratory infection. Most of these are viruses & generally run their course in 10-14 days. As long as Heidi is eating & drinking, she may not need to be on any medications. If you have never had her tested for feline leukemia & feline immunodeficiency virus ( & never vaccinated ), this might be something to request that your vet do this. This might change how she is or is not treated now & in the future. Just like with us, keeping her hydrated & eating are the best ways to deal with these infections. Offer her canned foods, broths or stocks & even tuna water. The more hydrated she is, the better she will feel. Any concerns, please see your veterinarian for further treatments. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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