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My cat stopped eating and is sleeping all the time. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

My cat isn't eating much amd is sleeping a lot. This isn't normal for her. She always eats when I leave food and doesn't sleep so much usually

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on July 24th, 2016

It sound like your cat isn't feeling well. Anorexia (not eating) and lethargy are symptoms of many different illnesses, so without more symptoms, I can't pin down what might be causing her to act this way. I can say that any sudden change in behavior from the normal should be investigated your vet because there might be a medical cause behind it. In this case, I think it would be a good idea for your cat to see a vet, and I recommend taking her into your vet's normal business hours for a health check. Your vet would be best to determine if there is a medical illness, and how best to treat it.

10Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 25th, 2017
If there is a change in her routine than it could be causing some stress and her change in behavior. If it continues, she should be examined by your vet to make sure there is not a medical reason. As cats age, they can develop dental disease, kidney/liver issues, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, etc. and your vet can do an examination and run lab-work to make sure she is healthy.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on March 8th, 2020
Thank you for submitting your question regarding your cat. I agree that she or he sounds sick. I recommend seeing a veterinarian. There are numerous reasons why a cat will stop eating. Unfortunately, medications will be different based on the underlying condition. The veterinarian will examine the your cat and may recommend blood work and/or urine testing. Based on these results, treatment can be started. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on January 19th, 2017
It's good that your cat ate today and drank today. Anorexia and lethargy are very general signs of illness in cats, and can be caused by systemic illness, infection, injury, or inflammation among other causes. I would continue to monitor her, and if she still isn't herself in another 24 hours, or she stops eating and drinking again, I would have her seen by a vet.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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