How To Deal With A Lethargic Cat?

Cats have a very mixed behavior. Hence, at times they can be very energetic, while there are times they might desire some rest.

Hence, you might see a cat jumping and playing a few minutes ago, and then suddenly you can see your cat sleeping.

The phrase “cat nap” is strongly inspired by cats’ behavior. However, at times, a cat might seem to be a little lethargic.

Thus, this definitely sparks a little bit of tension in your mind as a cat parent. You might wonder what the main reason is for your cat behaving like this.

There are several causes of feline lethargy. These causes can range from something minor to something very serious. You should always be aware of the major causes.

This will help you to understand if your cat requires medical attention and how recovery is possible. Hence, let’s dig in and understand how to deal with a lethargic cat.

What Does Lethargy Look Like In Cats?

A lethargic cat tends to be really weak. Cats are generally energetic and active all the time. However, a lethargic cat limits its mobility.

Hence, they tend to lie in bed most of the time. Furthermore, you can also notice trembling feet and an irregular walking pattern when a cat becomes weak.

What Are The Major Signs Of Lethargy In Felines?

Lethargy is very different from tiredness. Thus, a tired cat refers to a feline that lacks energy for certain reasons. This includes fatigue, aging, too much running, and several other factors.

On the other hand, lethargy in a cat is not normal. It is a situation where the cat would barely move.

There can be several reasons a cat may be low on energy. Hence, we have brought you some of the most common reasons your cat may be lethargic.

What Are The 8 Major Causes For A Feline To Be Lethargic?

Here are the main reasons that can cause lethargy in a cat.

1. Bacterial And Viral Infections

A cat’s immune system generally works hard when it fights a viral infection. The cat’s body tends to be much more fatigued and lethargic when fighting any type of infection.

Veterinary specialists often treat viral and bacterial infections with a variety of medications.

Hence, some of these medications can cause side effects that easily make a cat more lethargic. Thus, cat fatigue should continue until the cat is completely healthy.

2. Anemia

Cats also suffer from anemia, like their human friends. The feline red blood cell count drastically decreases. Hence, this reduces the amount of oxygen in a cat’s blood.

Hence, the cat becomes sicker and more lethargic due to reduced oxygen in the body. You should also know about the other signs of anemia to better determine whether your cat is anemic.

3. Diabetes

Diabetes is more common in male cats than in female cats. Cats generally do not suffer from diabetes.

However, several risk factors make your cat prone to diabetes. Obesity often contributes to diabetes. In addition, diabetes becomes much more common in older cats.

You should know about the other signs of diabetes. This includes signs like extreme thirst, frequent urination, and unnatural weight loss.

When you notice these symptoms, always take your pet to the vet for help. Moreover, you can manage diabetes with insulin.

You should follow all the regulations and the directions given to you by the doctors. Lethargy can also occur when a cat’s blood sugar becomes very low.

4. Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease, or heart disease, is a very common cause of feline lethargy. The older cats tend to be more prone to cardiovascular diseases and heart-related issues.

Heart diseases can often cause several symptoms, such as lethargy and others. The vets closely monitor the heartbeats of cats during their annual checkups.

This physical examination allows the vets to gain much clearer insight into the cat’s condition and treatment. Medications play an important role in arresting the degradation of the condition.

5. Infection In The Urinary Tract

You can find your cat frequently reaching the litter box. However, they may not be able to urinate. This mainly happens when they have an infection in their urinary tract.

Male cats generally tend to suffer more from these infections. Hence, this proves extremely painful for them.

The cats can become very lethargic, and they can also moan while in excruciating pain. You should see a medical professional immediately.

Complications can occur more often when the treatment is delayed. Proper medical attention at the right time can protect your cat from becoming seriously ill or even fatal.

6. Asthma

Asthma often makes it very difficult for a cat to breathe. Moreover, a cat tends to become more lethargic when it has difficulty breathing.

The feline body has to work very hard to reach oxygen to the lungs when asthma remains untreated. The cats find it difficult to move when their respiratory system malfunctions.

7. Poisoning

Cats tend to ingest things they should not. The cats are curious creatures by nature. Hence, they try to explore the world with their mouth.

However, numerous household items can make a cat extremely sick. Cats can become very sick by ingesting things like alcohol, human medications, certain types of house plants, and others.

Hence, poisoning can easily lead to a very lethargic cat. You should see a vet immediately if you suspect your cat has ingested something toxic.

8. Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism can be very common in cats. The vets can treat hypothyroidism easily. The major symptoms of hypothyroidism in cats are lethargy and weight gain.

The thyroid gland helps to regulate metabolism. Hence, dysfunctional thyroid glands lead to weight gain or loss. The body has to work harder. Hence, this leads to fatigue.

The doctors even use surgery as an option to remove the thyroid. In these situations, the cat has to follow a special, dedicated diet.

What Should We Remember About A Lethargic Cat?

There can be a plethora of reasons for a lethargic cat. Hence, it is important to identify the correct cause.

The reason can be something very serious. On the other hand, it can be something really simple.

However, a pet parent should definitely seek help from a professional while dealing with a lethargic cat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about a lethargic cat.