Sure, cats can snooze throughout the day but your kitty seems more tired than usual. Your feline friend seems downright disinterested in cat toys, other pets, and even that tennis match on TV, which would normally get his tail swishing back and forth.
It’s got you worried, and rightfully so. Lethargy in cats likely means something’s up, health-wise, and can quickly become an emergency if combined with other, concerning symptoms.
At VEG emergency hospitals, we take the health of our pet patients very seriously. Lethargy in cats means your guy is more than just tired. It’s exhaustion and weakness; and can lead to inability to function and do basic routine things.
THE LOWDOWN ON CAT LETHARGY
If your cat is lethargic, he won’t want or be able to get up; use the cat box; walk over to you for some fur petting; or enjoy dinner at the expected time.
Lethargy in a cat means your dude is NOT okay. Got cat concerns? Run through this list of other symptoms to spot. If one or more matches your cat’s condition, pick up the phone and give your nearest VEG emergency animal hospital a call. Our experienced vet staff will diagnose your pet and work toward getting your kitty back in the swing of things.
SIX SIGNS THAT LETHARGY IN YOUR CAT IS AN EMERGENCY
Let’s explore six key signs in a lethargic cat that indicate it's time to call VEG ER for pets, and seek immediate veterinary attention.
1. EXTREME WEAKNESS OR COLLAPSE
If your cat is extremely weak, unable to stand or walk, and/or has collapsed, something is definitely wrong. Among other critical conditions, these signs may indicate:
Heart disease
Internal bleeding
Severe dehydration
Contact VEG immediately to get your cat the emergency care he needs.
2. UNRESPONSIVENESS OR ALTERED CONSCIOUSNESS
If your cat was lethargic and now seems dazed and confused; or is unresponsive, take immediate action. Exposure to toxins, neurological distress, or severe infection are some possible reasons for the altered state of consciousness.
Signs of Neurological Distress in Cats
Keep an eye out for unusual behaviors like the ones below. These behaviors necessitate prompt action and veterinary care.
Cat circling aka walking in circles
Head pressing against objects
Sudden uncoordinated movements
3. RAPID BREATHING OR DIFFICULTY BREATHING
Respiratory issues are always a red flag. If your cat is breathing rapidly, panting unusually, or struggling to get air, seek emergency veterinary assistance at VEG right away.
These symptoms may point to respiratory infection, asthma, or even heart failure. Other related signs of respiratory distress may be:
Blue-tinged gums
Prolonged coughing
Wheezing
4. CAT IS IN SEVERE PAIN
Cats are good at hiding their pain, but certain signs can indicate severe discomfort. If your cat won’t stop meowing, becomes aggressive when touched, or is attempting to hide in unusual places, he or she may be in pain.
Pain can stem from injuries, urinary blockages, or severe infections. Seek immediate veterinary attention to have your cat examined by an experienced ER vet.
A change in behavior, such as reluctance to be touched, increased hiding, or a sudden lack of grooming, can also suggest your cat is in pain. If you suspect your cat may be hurting, don’t wait – bring your pet in to the emergency vet for an exam.
5. PROLONGED VOMITING OR DIARRHEA
Sometimes cats throw up or have a bout of diarrhea. If it’s once in a while and resolves quickly, it’s worth bringing up to your primary care veterinarian. However, prolonged or severe episodes demand immediate veterinary medical attention. Take your pet to the nearest VEG ER for pets.
Poisoning, gastrointestinal blockages, or infection may be the underlying issue if your cat’s vomiting or diarrhea continues for more than a day.
Untreated gastrointestinal disturbance can lead to dehydration, and may be a sign of something more serious. If your cat’s tummy troubles are continuing, and/or you notice blood, contact your 24-hour VEG hospital without delay.
6. SUDDEN CHANGES IN EATING OR DRINKING HABITS
Has your cat started eating less and drinking more? Is he also lethargic in general?
A sudden decrease in appetite and/or an increase in water consumption can indicate metabolic diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease, especially when accompanied by lethargy.
Monitor your cat’s eating and drinking patterns, and keep an eye on how much your cat is consuming. Any drastic changes should prompt a call to your VEG emergency vet as they can help determine the underlying cause.
RECOGNIZE WHEN YOUR CAT NEEDS IMMEDIATE VETERINARY CARE
Don’t ignore the signs that something more serious could be going on. When a cat becomes lethargic, be on the lookout for other, concurrent symptoms, to be sure he receives the right care at the right time.
While it's normal for cats to have lazy days, persistent lethargy accompanied by some of the symptoms listed above warrants immediate attention.
At VEG, we understand the urgency of these symptoms and are here to provide rapid and compassionate emergency vet care. We’re prepared 24/7 to help your cat with whatever emergency may arise. Remember, at VEG, you get to stay with your cat all throughout treatment. And that’s purrty darn pawsome.
