My cat isn't eating and losing weight, when should I see a vet?

It sounds like Sissy is sick. Her symptoms could be caused by dental disease, systemic illness, infection, or injury. Without seeing her in person, I can't say for certain what is going on. I'd have her seen by a vet today to have this diagnosed and treated. Best of luck.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Princess. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. Cats typically hide signs of illness well. So when there is a decrease in appetite, this is significant. She will be examined and will likely need laboratory work to help diagnose her problem. Kidney disease, thyroid disorders, pancreatitis and diabetes are commonly seen in older cats. I hope this information helps!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Socks hasn't been feeling well. Based on what you are describing, I would recommend she be taken back in to be re-evaluated and have further diagnostics or treatment done. Cats can only go so long without eating before developing liver issues, so we are always concerned when cats aren't eating. I would recommend Socks be re-evaluated by her veterinarian, have any further necessary testing done (xrays, bloodwork, ultrasound) to determine what the underlying cause for her issue is, and start any treatment that may be needed to help her feeling back on track. Good luck!

Annie needs to be examined by the veterinarian today. It sounds like she is very sick and there is nothing you can do for her at home at this point. Just like humans, pets can get sick for many many reasons. Some of these can be treated IF THEY ARE CAUGHT IN TIME. Other reasons will be fatal. Have her examined today to find out your options and so that Annie does not suffer if she is found to have something not treatable. Euthanasia is a hard decision but it relieves suffering. I hope this helps and best of luck.

I am sorry to hear about Sugar. My rule of thumb is that any cat who is losing weight needs to be seen by a vet sooner rather than later. I am particularly worried about kidney disease which is common in older cats. After a good physical exam, your vet may recommend bloodwork to check on the kidneys and thyroid in particular. Best of luck to you and Sugar!

Hello, and thank you for your question. Disinterest in food and weight loss are red flags, and I would be concerned with a medical issue causing these symptoms. I would recommend a visit with your veterinarian in the next 24 hours. They can perform a head to toe examination, assess for pain or discomfort, dehydration, or fever. Possible causes include infection, pancreatitis, gastric foreign body, or inflammatory bowel disease. Your vet may recommend blood work or ultrasound to help reach a diagnosis. In the meantime, continue to offer different types of food and free access to fresh water. Monitor for any vomiting or loose stools. I hope this helps, and that Kika feels better soon.

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.