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Why did my active cat die suddenly? Could fleas be responsible?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 13 years and 6 months old

My cat died yesterday age 11 years. Myself and my family are devastated and don't know why she died. She was active and eating and drinking. My neighbour found her in her garden. There are no outward signs of anything to show how she died. My husband examined her and said she'd not been hurt in an accident. Our cat did have fleas which we were treating her for. Only now have I found that these over the counter spot on treatments aren't always effective. Could the fleas have killed her? Thank you

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 19th, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I’m so sorry to hear about Misty! If you want an answer you need to have her neceopsied (autopsy for animals). Fleas can kill a pet if there are so many they suck all the blood out of the pet. Typically we don’t see this in adult pets but it can happen. Because Misty died suddenly I would be more suspicious of underlying heart disease. Cats can have undiagnosed heart problems which can arise suddenly. If not, I would be concerned of a toxin. Again, it’s hard to say for sure but at least you know she didn’t suffer. My thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time.

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