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My cat is lethargic, hiding, and not using litter box. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

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

My cat is overweight and she's 2 years old. When I got home today she has been very lethargic. She's just been either siting behind the toilet or under the bed. Whenever I try to get her attention she ignores me. She is able to stand up if I stand her up, but she'll go back to lying down within a minute or two. She will eat a little bit of food or drink quite a bit of water if they're placed in front of her. She hasn't gone to the litter box at all today either. What should I do?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2020

I'm sorry to hear that Lily has been feeling so poorly today. As Dr. Melanie mentioned, lethargy and a loss of appetite can be due to many underlying health conditions. Since she seems to prefer laying down, it's also possible that she's experiencing some degree of pain or discomfort. Some of these possible conditions include pancreatitis, infectious diseases (FIV, feline leukemia, FIP, etc.), constipation, kidney disease, liver disease, toxin exposure (did she eat a plant, medication or something else she shouldn't have?), or many other conditions. The fact that she hasn't been using the litter box normally might be a sign that she is dehydrated, even though she's drinking water when it's placed in front of her. At this point, it would be best to take Lily to her vet fairly urgently for evaluation. Your vet will need to examine her and will likely recommend some diagnostic testing, which may include blood work, an ultrasound or x-rays, to get to the bottom of this issue. I hope that she feels better soon!

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lily. She is beautiful! I'm sorry she isn't feeling well. Lethargy and a loss of appetite are often the first signs of illness, but they are common signs of many illnesses. I cannot narrow it down without seeing her in person. I think the best thing to do is keep an eye on her tonight and if she is still acting this way in the morning, have her seen by a vet. I hope this helps!

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