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Why is my cat suddenly lethargic, not eating, and won't play?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | 17 lbs

My cat has been sitting up on the floor and hasn't moved for 2 hours he looks up and around I tried to give him a treat but didn't want it and then I tried to play with him with string but didn't move.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on November 27th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Mittens. Abnormal behavior in a cat is often the first sign of problems. If this continues, you should have him evaluated immediately. Your vet can take a history, perform an examination, and then advise a diagnostic/treatment plan. Possible causes include pain, infection, inflammation, stress/anxiety, bite/scratch wounds if he was outside, among other things. Good luck and I hope Mittens bounces back to normal soon.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 27th, 2017
Oh no, poor kitty! It sounds like he is lethargic and anorexic which can be caused by systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. It is concerning that he won't move or eat and due to this, I would have him seen by a vet today. The vet can diagnose what is causing his symptoms so he can be treated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 17th, 2018
Poor Link! Lethargy is a very general sign of illness, but it can be caused by systemic illness, infection, inflammation, or injury. Same with a decrease in appetite. It's concerning when a cat is both lethargic and losing their appetite, and these combination of symptoms requires a visit to the vet. The vet can diagnose what is causing them, and how best to treat him. Please take him into a vet today. Good luck! I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 22nd, 2018
Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to address your concern. Unfortunately it is difficult to say for sure what the problem is with Mr. Kitty. However, with your description, it sounds as if he may be in kidney failure with the weight loss, poor hair coat and lethargy. There may be multiple conditions going on as well such as kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. I would recommend starting by having an examination done as well as having his blood tested to see if there are any abnormalities that may indicate these clinical symptoms. I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any further questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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