Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat is breathing hard, losing weight, and won't eat. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Wirehair | Male | 8 months and 14 days old | 4 lbs

my cat is breathing hard and he lost a lot of weight and he refuses to eat. he's so skinny and fragile. what's going on, is he dying please help me his breathing changes from fast to slow its been like this for about 3 weeks

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on May 4th, 2019

Oh dear! Poor Prince. I'm afraid these are very concerning symptoms. This does sound like a life-threatening problem, so I would recommend taking him to an emergency vet tonight to be seen. If this isn't possible, then he needs to see your regular veterinarian first thing in the morning. He will likely need blood work and x-rays to help diagnose the problem and see what can be done to help.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on June 16th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Felix! Felix sounds very very sick and should see a Veterinarian right away. Having trouble breathing is life threatening. If could be from a fever or from stress (from walking clumsy). Possible causes for his symptoms are: Feline Infectious Peritonitis, cancer, asthma, toxin exposure, fluid around the lungs, liver or kidney failure. He needs immediate medical attention. I wish you the best!

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?
Is your dog's dry skin a concern? A certified vet offers expert advice on finding the best fish-based dog food alternatives to Science Diet for essential oils.
Updated on February 04, 2026
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
What's the best way to feed my hamster when I'm going on a trip?
Planning a trip to Chicago and need to feed your Syrian hamster? A certified vet offers expert advice on feeding options for short and long trips, plus finding trusted pet sitters.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
Can chickens eat bell peppers daily and what about veggie salads?
Can your chickens eat bell peppers and salads? Veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth offers expert advice on safe feeding, frequency, and how fresh veggies boost vibrant yolks.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Food & Nutrition
My newly adopted pet won't eat hay. What can I do to encourage it?
Adopted a pet not eating hay? Dr. Stafford, a certified vet, offers expert guidance on encouraging hay consumption, including adjusting pellets and trying fresh types.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored