A cat not eating and sleeping a lot is a sign of potential illness, often serious, requiring immediate vet attention, as it can signal issues from dental pain, infections, kidney/liver disease, pancreatitis, diabetes, to stress or even cancer, with risks like fatal fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis) if they fast too long. Monitor for other symptoms like hiding, changes in litter box habits, or vomiting and get professional help quickly, as cats hide illness well and a vet visit is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
A cat refusing food and sleeping excessively may indicate illness such as infections, dental pain, or gastrointestinal issues. Symptoms include decreased appetite, lethargy, and hiding. Immediate veterinary evaluation is crucial to diagnose underlying causes.
A cat not eating for more than 24 hours should always be evaluated by a veterinarian, especially for overweight cats who face higher risks of liver complications. Watch for warning signs like low energy, vomiting, or breathing changes that indicate a need for emergency care.
Signs That a Cat is in Pain
Frequent or ongoing meowing or howling. Litter box accidents, urinating outside of their litterbox. Tail flicking. Won't eat or reduced appetite.
Chronic kidney disease is the most common silent killer in cats, and can be genetic. With this disease, 75% of both of your cat's kidneys don't work properly, and there are a few symptoms you can identify: Excessive drinking and urinating.
Cats that are ill usually show changes in overall appearance, energy level, sociability, coat appearance, and/or amount of shedding, appetite, litter box usage, breathing, or discharge from the eyes or nose. In general, any sudden change should alert you that your cat needs veterinary attention.
The cat may remain compressed with their legs tucked underneath themselves while lying down instead of stretching out. The cat may make facial expressions that are out of the ordinary, such as closing their eyes, squinting, or flattening their ears, and their cheeks, nose, and mouth may appear more tense than usual.
Physical Symptoms – Certain physical symptoms can also signal that a cat is near the end of their life. Loss of appetite, weight loss, and poor coat condition are all common signs of illness in cats, as well as difficulty breathing or laboured breathing.
Look for these signs:
In more extreme cases, veterinarians may prescribe medicines that act as appetite stimulants or recommend syringe-feeding your cat a liquid diet. Or the vet may recommend placement of a feeding tube to ensure adequate nutrition. When illness is not the culprit, there are things you can try to encourage your cat to eat.
The following signs may indicate that your cat has been infected:
Physical signs of pain
You can also ask your vet about quality of life questionnaires. These can help you to monitor all the different areas of your cat's life, to see how things are changing over time. Sadly, few cats die peacefully in their sleep at home.
Changes in your cat's eating habits may be an indicator of pain but remember, painful cats will still eat! Is your cat eating less, losing weight or losing muscle strength? Have they changed their eating habits – will they now only eat wet food and refuse dry?
For example, cats that are experiencing pain may start sleeping in a way that keeps pressure off of a painful limb, sleeping in a hunched position, or sleeping in a way that looks as if they don't want to be touched," Dr. Jacqueline Brister, a veterinarian, tells Newsweek.
Behavioral Changes
If your typically social and cuddly cat is now withdrawn and hiding, this is an immediate red flag that something might be wrong. It's common for cats that aren't feeling well to hide to prevent their illness from being discovered.
The most difficult age for a cat can vary depending on the individual. But generally, adolescence (around four months to two years) is often considered the most challenging phase. During this period, cats undergo significant physical and behavioural changes.
Cats are naturally solitary animals and are often happy without the company of their own species. They are territorial animals who don't like conflict with other cats. Introducing a new cat to an existing cat in the household takes time and patience – but don't worry, we have advice for this!