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My cat fought, now hiding, hissing, and lethargic. Is he hurt?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 11 months and 7 days old | 14 lbs

I believe my cat got into a fight with the neighbor’s cat. Behavior changed from playful to agitated, hiding, and hissing/growling at me (first ever observation of this behavior). Later, ate and drank as normal. Became lethargic and is now napping. Breathing normal, heart rate isn’t elevated. Gums more pale than pink and not very responsive to CRT. No signs of wounds, no sensitive areas. Paw temp normal. Is shock/trauma or could he just be spooked by thunder/unfamiliar environment?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Christie Long, DVM

Answered By Christie Long, DVM

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on February 18th, 2018

Jute could certainly be frightened, but given that there may have been a fight I would be more worried about an injury that is either causing pain (and his avoidance of you) or even something serious enough to cause shock. I'm not sure from your description when this fight occurred, I would watch him very carefully and take him into the veterinarian today if he isn't responding to you more normally in the next hour to two. From the picture I wouldn't say that the gums look abnormal, but if in your assessment (based on what is normal for him) if they seem paler than normal, this warrants close observation and escalation to get him care if he doesn't normalize soon.
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