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My senior cat is weak, not eating, and stumbling. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Persian | Female | spayed | 14 years and 1 month old | 4 lbs

Dear Vet, my beloved Persian cat, Lilly is a rescued cat and approx. 14 years old. Since 2 days she is barely eating, her fur looks wild and crazy, she will to allow me to brush her anymore and since today she very weak - instabile walking. For some weeks already I watch her sitting infant of her water dish just as if meditating and her eyes are dull, I feel like she is getting blind. But she is loving and enjoys me caring her around the house over my shoulders.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 4th, 2017

Poor Lilly sounds extremely ill, and I would have her seen by a vet immediately. When a cat doesn't eat for at least three days, they develop a fatty liver which is fatal without treatment. She could have a number of serious problems wrong with her causing her anorexia, such as kidney failure, liver failure, severe dental problems, or even cancer. I would have her seen by a vet now for a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis to diagnose what may be causing her symptoms. Once a cause is found, the vet can discuss treatment options with you.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on October 28th, 2019
No, do not ride this out! This is a medial emergency, and she has to see a vet now. It's extremely serious when a cat doesn't eat, and if she hasn't eaten in a couple of days, she's likely developed a fatty liver. That is fatal without treatment. Please take her into a vet now.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on July 21st, 2019
Princess needs to see the veterinarian today. Weakness is never normal and can indicate many things including an electrolyte imbalance, kidney failure, liver failure, hyperthyroidism, an infection in the brain, cancer, low blood sugar and hypertension. A physical exam and bloodwork is needed to begin figuring out the cause and the best treatment. Other diagnostics may also be indicated. The prognosis is generally better if these conditions are addressed early and appropriately. I hope it's nothing too serious and that she gets back to normal quickly.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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