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My cat has a teary eye, won't eat, and is lethargic. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 2 months old | 5.5 lbs

My cat has a teary left eye. He won't eat,and he just sleeps. He's 1 year old

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on July 9th, 2018

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Allie!

The most common cause for an excessively teary eye is a viral upper respiratory tract infection and they can cause a fever. A fever can cause lethargy and not wanting to eat. Other possibilities are an injury to the eye that is painful. Since he isn't eating and lethargic he needs to be examined by a Vet. Cats shouldn't go longer than 2-3 days with out eating as they can get very sick from a secondary liver problem.

I wish Allie a speedy recovery!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on August 22nd, 2017
Hello it is a bit hard for me to tell from your post exactly what you are asking.

If the cat is not eating and lethargic (low energy) he needs to be seen by a vet as soon as possible. Cats are not like dogs and people - they cannot go very long without eating before they get extremely ill.

If there is an issue with the eye still - he needs to be seen by a vet. Eye issues can go bad very quickly. Eyes are very sensitive organs.

There are some things that just cannot be fixed at home and a vet is needed. It sounds like he may have a virus that needs treatment.

Please try to find a vet in your area and get him an exam.

I hope this helps. If you want to ask more questions you are welcome to post again. Please be as clear and specific as possible. Best wishes!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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