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My cat is weak, hiding, not eating, drinking a lot. What to do?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | 3 years and 3 months old | 15 lbs

I need help... i dont have the money to take my cat to the vet. i have a 3 year old tom cat. normally he is the eye of attention always on his perch and when food time or treat time came he was up in my face. But for the past week he hides under a table. He barley eats. He drinks exsesive amounts of water. And when he walk he walks slow and cautious and like he is real weak.. i dont know whats going on...

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Answered By Mirissa Duncil, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 21st, 2017

Hi there.

There are a few things you need to rule out here-internal parasites, external parasites, and internal abnormalities due to other factors (diabetes, anemia, etc). To evaluate this condition further you really need to have bloodwork done on him. Especially if he is not eating or drinking and of such weakness That you take note of it-he needs to be seen by a vet.

At home you can try to comfort him, give him a warm towel to lie on and keep fresh water available. I hope this helps.
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 9th, 2017

    Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I'm sorry to hear Kitty isn't feeling well. I would recommend he be evaluated by a veterinarian to determine what may be causing him to feel ill. Lethargy and weakness with skin issues may be due to a virus, an infection, an autoimmune disease, or another underlying issue. I would have him seen, have any necessary testing done (bloodwork, X-rays) and get started on any treatment he may need to get him back to his old self! Good luck!

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Answered By Ann Dion, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on January 4th, 2019

    Hello and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

    It sounds like Thena might be feeling very sick.

    Vomiting can be due to gastric disease, kidney disease, liver disease, toxins, and other causes.

    Drinking a lot can be due to dehydration from vomiting, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, etc.

    I recommend that you have Thena into your vet and get a blood test performed to check the organs, and also see if Thena needs IV fluids.

    I hope he feels better soon!

    Vote Icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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