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My cat won't eat, use litter, and is lethargic. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | RagaMuffin | Male | neutered

What do you guys recommend giving to a cat who hasn’t eaten anything or use the cat litter? I see him moving very little and he just sits down or sit in the corner and sleep. We’re worried about Kong’s well-being.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on May 16th, 2020

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Kong. When a cat doesn't eat, it's extremely serious. That's because if the cat goes long enough without eating (about 72 hours), they will develop a fatty liver. A fatty liver is fatal without treatment. The fact that he won't eat or use the litter box tells me he is quite sick or injured. I would consider his symptoms a medical emergency that cannot be treat at home. Please take him into a vet immediately. Best of luck.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 3rd, 2017

    This is extremely serious, and Tiger needs to see a vet immediately. When a cat doesn't eat for three days, they become prone to a condition called a fatty liver, which is fatal without treatment. He sounds extremely ill if he's hasn't eaten for five days or left your bed to use the litter box. This is a medical emergency, please take him into a vet now.

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