My cat won't eat after vaccine. Is this normal or should I worry?

Related Answers from Veterinarians

• Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on July 19th, 2018

  Hello, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. So sorry Trixie is having this issue.
  
  Yes, she is likely having a delayed hypersensitivity reaction to the vaccines. If her symptoms don't resolve (or get worse) in the next 24 hours you should take her back to your vet for a follow-up. Do not give her any over the counter medications. Just let her rest and offer her food and water as normal.
  
  Hope this helps. Best wishes.

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Steve Popish, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on September 13th, 2017

  Sorry about your young cat. Reaction to vaccinations are not uncommon and can often result in fever, muscle soreness, and lethargy. Vomiting can occur as well and good to have some medication aboard from recent visit. Good that your cat is drinking and maintaining hydration but the appetite is still a concern. Probably ok to wait until tomorrow to take back to your veterinarian. In the meantime, try small amounts of canned food to stimulate appetite. If no luck by then, check in with your veterinarian and see if there might be another cause for the vomiting and not eating. Hope this helps, please reach out if you have additional questions. Thanks and good luck, Steve Popish, DVM

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

  Veterinarian

  Published on March 17th, 2017

  Poor Pancho! A bit of lethargy can be normal for a day or two after vaccines. If Pancho is also experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, hives or facial swelling, he should be seen by a vet immediately, as this could indicate an allergic reaction to his vaccinations. Try to coax him to eat tonight, but if he won't eat by tomorrow, take him to your vet. Cats can develop a condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) if they go without eating for an extended period of time. I hope he feels better soon!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

• Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

  Veterinarian

  Published on January 5th, 2020

  Sometimes animals become more lethargic after a vaccination and this typically does not last for more than 24 hours. If you think Havoc is experiencing difficulty breathing, is vomiting or is experiencing hives on the skin, then take him in immediately as he may be experiencing a vaccine reaction. However, if he is just slower than usual and doesn't want to eat right now, I would give it 24 hours after the vaccine has been given and if the symptoms do not resolve, take him back to the veterinarian to be examined to ensure everything is ok. I hope this helps!

  

  1Pet Parents found this answer helpful