Our Vets are Available 🟢
Dial A Vet Logo
🐾 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 GuidelinesNewsletter
View all Blogs
Over 6,000 Articles
View All Q&A
5,000+ Answers
💵 Pricing📖 How it Works📧 Contact
Chat to a Vet

Question:

What could have made my cat so sick?

I’m feeling really overwhelmed right now and could use some advice. My sweet cat, Muffin, has suddenly become really sick, and I’m at a loss for what could have caused it. Just two days ago, she was her usual playful self, chasing after her favorite feather toy and demanding belly rubs. But now she’s not eating, seems lethargic, and has been hiding under the bed, which is so unlike her. I haven’t changed her diet, and she hasn’t been outside, so I’m scratching my head here. I’ve checked for any signs of injury or anything unusual, but there’s nothing obvious. I’m planning to take her to the vet first thing in the morning, but the worry is eating me alive tonight. Has anyone experienced something similar with their fur babies, or does anyone have any idea what might be going on? Any thoughts would mean the world to me right now. Thanks in advance.

Answer:

Hello there,



I’m sorry to hear that your cat isn’t feeling well. Cats can get sick for a variety of reasons, so let's see if we can narrow it down. Common causes of illness in cats include eating something they shouldn’t have, infections (either viral or bacterial), parasites, or stress from changes in their environment. Sometimes underlying conditions like kidney disease or diabetes can also cause sudden sickness.



At home, you can help by ensuring your cat stays hydrated, as dehydration can quickly make things worse. Offer fresh water frequently and encourage them to drink. Keep them comfortable in a quiet, familiar area, and monitor their litter box habits for any changes in urine or stool, which can provide clues about what’s going on.



Please watch for worsening signs such as persistent vomiting or diarrhea, lack of appetite for more than a day, changes in breathing, or unusual lethargy. These can indicate a more serious problem that requires immediate attention.



Given the range of potential issues, it might be best to discuss your cat’s specific symptoms with a veterinarian. I’d strongly recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can help guide you on the best next steps right from the comfort of your home.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 22, 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
Is my dog okay? Is he just old?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
IBD vs Cancer in cats: Would you get an endoscopy or start steroids ASAP?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My cat got neutered and got an E-Collar, but it didn't exactly work positively
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dog, stage IV, bcell lymphoma, palliative only, prognosis 3-5 weeks. Still alive 10 months later.
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