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Why is my senior cat peeing, falling, breathing hard, and not eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 lbs

My cat has been having a myriad of abnormal behaviors including peeing weird places (in my shoes, the stove burner, on the couch) which she has never done before (even when she had a UTI she peed right in front of the box). She falls over when walking, has some trouble breathing (which is ongoing), sleeping more than usual, and hasn’t been eating much. She’s around 13-14 years old. Any ideas?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 21st, 2019

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Loss of appetite can be observed with many conditions such as gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, kidney disease, pancreatitis, among many other possibilities. The falling over may be due to weakness or possibly neurological disease. That can also be why she is sleeping more. Urinating in unusual places is almost always due to a urinary tract condition such as an infection, stones, among other possibilities. I recommend that you have Sophie evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They would be able to check for these possibilities and others depending on the findings on exam. Treatment would be based on findings. Good luck and have a great day! Hoping for a speedy recovery! 


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