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Why is my elderly cat not eating, drinking, and acting sick?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 5 lbs

elderly cat suddenly refuses to eat (even her favorite canned tuna pate) or drink and just sleeps and doesn't want to be affectionate. One eye is watery. She growls if I try to give her any water in her mouth with a dropper.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on April 3rd, 2018

This sounds like a serious medical problem. Elderly cats often have kidney failure or can become hyperthyroid or she may just have an upper respiratory infection infection. She can get dehydrated if she’s not eating or drinking which may make any underlying problems worse. I recommend an exam, fluids for dehydration and they should be able to diagnose the problem so you’ll know what treatment may help. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Emms.

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