Our Vets are Available 🟢
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.
Pet Health
Blogs
Dog HealthCat HealthVeterinary ServicesPet Health
ask a vet
Ask A Vet Q&A - Free!
resources
Free Symptom CheckerDial A Vet NZFind a Local Vet Clinic
about DIAL A VET
Terms & Conditions
Privacy PolicyEditorial Guidelines
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
Resources
Lorem ipsum dolor
PricingHow it WorksContact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

Severely emaciated cat, missing, neurological symptoms.

I'm really desperate for some advice or insights here. My cat, Mittens, has been going through a really tough time lately. She was already pretty skinny, even though she eats a ton. Then, a couple of weeks ago, she started having these strange neurological symptoms—she's been wobbling when she walks and sometimes appears disoriented. It's been heart-wrenching to watch, and just when I thought things couldn't get worse, she went missing two days ago. I've searched everywhere and put up flyers in the hope someone will find her. Has anyone else dealt with a situation like this? What could be going on with her health? I'm just so worried about her being out there alone in her condition. Any suggestions or advice would really mean the world to me.

Answer:

Hello there,



I'm really sorry to hear about what you're going through with your cat. It sounds like a worrying situation. When a cat becomes severely emaciated and shows neurological symptoms, there can be several potential causes. These symptoms might indicate an underlying condition such as a severe nutritional deficiency, organ failure (such as kidney or liver issues), or a more serious underlying disease like a viral infection affecting the brain or nerves.



In the meantime, if your cat is still at home, ensure they have access to fresh water and try offering highly palatable, easy-to-digest food in small, frequent meals. Ensure they are kept warm and comfortable but watch out for any signs of stress or worsening condition.



Some signs that it's becoming urgent include seizures, continuous tremors, inability to stand or walk, or any change in their consciousness level. These are indications that immediate veterinary attention is needed.



I strongly suggest booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet as soon as possible to further discuss what's happening with your cat. We can help you understand better what's going on and guide you on the next best steps to take to ensure they get the care they need.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 19, 2025

  Book A Vet Consultation
The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
🧠 Related Pet Owner Questions
My French Bulldog had a c section and she was fine afterwards, but all 3 of her puppies died within 2 hours due to breathing problems.
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My recently spayed kitten threw up
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Vagal response in cat after throwing up, or something else?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think my foster kitten has FIP and don't know if he can wait until morning
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Money Magazine
Australia's Leading
Online Vet
TrustPilot:
Excellent
Real Vets

Thousands of Pet Owners across the Globe rely on Dial A Vet for peace of mind.

Real questions, vet reviewed answers and quality care.

Trusted by 40,000+ users
4.7/5
dog in grass
Ina
Pet Owner

It was so easy, I needed some eye drops for my dog and thinking about going to the vet on a weekend made me nervous about the cost involved. Dial A Vet was a much simpler, cheaper option with faster results. Within 10 minutes of the call, I had the medicine I needed for my dog without an expensive consultation.

25 May 2025
Joanne
Pet Owner

A great fast efficient service with a qualified vet who was lovely and helpful. Thank you Samantha. I was able to sort my dog at 6pm on a Sunday night for $49 - amazing. Highly recommend.

12 May 2025
Lisa
Pet Owner

What an amazing service, at my wits end as I knew my beautiful dog had an ear infection, could not get into the vet for 4 days. Never knew there was vets online until I googled. Within 15 minutes on a Sunday I was taking to beautiful Samantha who diagnosed and treated our Jasper. Only $49. She trusted that we knew our boy and gave us lots of advice. I will definitely be using dial a vet every time and sharing with all my friends and family. Absolutely fantastic kind caring service. 11/10

7 April 2025
The logo for Dial A Vet, the online vet company.

With Dial A Vet, expert veterinary advice is just a tap away. Get fast vet consultations, trusted care, and personalized pet support—anytime, anywhere, all year round.

Dial A Vets uses software that is HIPAA compliant and SOC - 2 Certified.

support@dialavet.com.au

dial a vet owner with cat
dial a vet pet owner with dog in a orange top
colourful pet owner with their dog
40k+
Pet Owners
Fluffy stuff
Terms & ConditionsPrivacy policy
Company
How It WorksPricingBlogFree Online VetOnline VetPet Symptom CheckerFind a Local Vet ClinicFree Teachers lesson plansGasTexts: Free Gas Prices TextedCheersVC
NEW ZEALAND
Speak to A Vet NZ
Our Social Links