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Why is my new cat eating less and dry heaving without throwing up?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 3 years old | 10 lbs

About 2.5 weeks ago I adopted a shelter cat. For the past two days, he has had a decreased appetite. He hasn't been refusing to eat altogether but he eats maybe half of his normal amount. This morning a little after he ate I saw him dry heaving, like he was going to to throw up but he didn't. The first week we had him he had an ear infection in 1 ear so we gave him medicine for it then. Other than that he is his energetic and friendly self. What could be wrong?

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 20th, 2017

He could have a number of different things going on, one being either inflammatory bowel disease or a kidney problem. These are common causes of nausea and decreased appetite in an adult cats. Other possible causes are hairball, liver disease and pancreatitis. I would suggest getting him eeen by your vet and some bloodwork analysis done to help find out the underlying problem so that we know how best to treat Marco and get him well. Best wishes at the vet. Take care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Emily, DVM
Veterinarian
The dry heaving may have been Marco trying to cough up a hairball. If it continues, he starts to lose weight or has less energy than he should get checked out by a veterinarian as those are signs something more serious could be occurring. The change in food intake maybe normal for him and settling into his new home. As long as he is active, eating, using the litter box and not losing any weight he should be fine.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on August 16th, 2019
I am a little worried, too. I would recommend that you have Gary examined by a vet. It could be caused by nausea, abdominal pain, something stuck in the throat, heart disease, among other things. The vet will do a thorough exam to determine which diagnostics may be indicated.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on February 20th, 2020
Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Charlie. Poor boy. Feed him a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in his normal diet. If he refuses to eat the bland diet, he vomits the bland diet, develops diarrhea, stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, he will need to see a vet right away. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Ana M, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 6th, 2018
Thank you for submitting your question regarding Holmes. He will need to see his veterinarian to determine the cause of his vomiting and decreased appetite. Cats can become quite ill from going without food for too long. So encourage him to eat. Depending on the cause of his symptoms, the sensitive stomach may be a good option for him in the future. He may not be eating it now as he is not feeling well. He may need blood and urine testing. I hope this information helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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