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My cat is lethargic, bloated, not eating, and shedding. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 14 years old | 17 lbs

My cat has been lethargic for a few days, has a diminished appetite and feels significantly bloated. Also shedding quite a bit when I pet him and his coat feels a little coarser than normal. Not good, right?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 7th, 2017

You're right, it doesn't sound good. Possible causes for the bloat and decreased appetite include pain from arthritis, hairballs, food allergy, GI blockage, intestinal parasites, IBD, intestinal lymphoma, systemic disease (liver, kidney, pancreas, diabetes), among others.

The shedding and change in coat texture could be due to a decrease in nutrition from not eating, but is likely caused by not grooming as frequently.

I recommend that James go to the vet as soon as possible. After a thorough physical exam, your vet may recommend additional diagnostics like x-rays or bloodwork to try to determine the cause of his symptoms.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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