My cat is lethargic, licking lips, eating. When should I see a vet?

If this has been going on for more than a few days it might be better to see an emergency veterinarian today, however if the symptoms are more recent you may be able to wait. If Greta's gums seem pale or she is having trouble breathing, or if she has a history of other medical problems it would also be better to have her seen today. Otherwise I think you can probably wait until tomorrow. Ultimately these symptoms are somewhat vague and can be a sign of a number of problems so you should go with your gut.

Your cat needs to be seen by a vet as soon as possible for an exam and labwork so that he can be treated for his ailment right away. Not eating is a serious matter in cats. They cannot go more than a few days without eating or they risk liver damage. Your cat needs to be seen by your vet for an exam and bloodwork to determine the cause for your cat’s loss of appetite. Based on the findings, your vet will be able to give you a clearer picture of what is going on with your cat and be able to offer you treatment options. Try enticing your pet to eat with beef or chicken baby food that does not contain onion or garlic powder. Onion and garlic causes anemia. Warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. Stir it with your finger first to make sure there are no hot spots and that it isn't too hot. This makes it more aromatic and appealing to your pet. Wetting dry food or mixing wet food with low sodium chicken broth, also warmed, might entice your pet to eat. Some cats like to be petted while they eat, some want to be left alone. You'll know your cat's habits and be able to act accordingly.

What a gorgeous cat! I am sorry he is not feeling well. Licking his lips is a sign of nausea. Even though he may not be vomiting today he is showing signs that he is still not feeling well. If he is eating (even small amounts) and drinking water as well as interacting with you, urinating, and defecating than he may be able to wait until Wednesday. However, if Michaleto's breathing continues to be abnormal at all to you this may be a sign that he is in pain or has some sort of disease of his heart or lungs. Any abnormal breathing - whether fast or hard - should be seen as soon as possible by a veterinarian. I hope he is feeling better soon.

I would recommend keeping a very close eye on your cat for the next 12 to 24 hours. When cats are free to roam outside they are more prone to getting in fights and ingesting something toxic. If she does not eat this evening or tomorrow morning and she is still acting lethargic and I would recommend taking her in to your vet to be checked out.

It can be scary when there's a possibility your cat is sick! Lethargy is seen as a cat acting very tired, not wanting to move much, little interest in getting pet, sleeping a lot more than normal. Personally in my opinion, I always thinks it's best to be safe than sorry, and if you'd feel better taking her into the vet, that's absolutely fine! You may rest easier knowing everything is ok with her, and if she does seem a little tired, a vet visit may be a good idea. Otherwise, keep watch on her for the signs mentioned by the expert in your previous question. I hope this helps!

Your cat really needs to be seen by a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment. She is likely dehydrated from not eating or drinking well and will require subcutaneous or intravenous fluids. Because she hasn't been eating, she is also at risk of developing a condition called hepatic lipodosis. This disease is the most common cause of metabolic liver failure. At home encourage your cat to eat by offering highly palatable food, such as fish-flavored canned cat food or Stage 1 strained chicken or turkey baby food (no onions or garlic). If necessary, gently open her mouth and place a small amount of moist food on her tongue. Watch to see if she swallows it. If she does, place a couple more dollops of food on her tongue, then encourage her to eat a bit on her own.

These symptoms can be caused by a range of diseases, and are often accompanied by severe dehydration. Without an exam and some testing, I can't make a diagnosis, and it is illegal for us to make specific recommendations on medications. You should call your local vet for further advice.