Cats often hide signs of discomfort, so small changes in routine can be useful clues. Eating less, acting differently, or using the litter box in a new way does not always mean an emergency, but it deserves attention—especially if the change persists, worsens, or appears alongside other symptoms. Keep notes on what you observe and when it began. Sharing specific details with your veterinarian can help guide the next steps and make the conversation more useful.
Changes in Eating and Drinking
Notice whether your cat is eating more or less than usual, skipping meals, or showing interest in food but struggling to chew or swallow. Also watch for changes in drinking. A sudden increase or decrease can be important, particularly when it continues or occurs with weight loss, vomiting, low energy, or changes in urination.
Record when the change started, how much food and water your cat seems to consume, and whether you have changed the food or feeding routine. Contact a veterinarian if your cat stops eating, has difficulty eating, or has a clear shift in appetite or thirst. Seek prompt guidance if the change comes with weakness, repeated vomiting, or trouble breathing.
Behavior and Energy Shifts
A cat who hides more, avoids touch, becomes unusually irritable, or no longer enjoys familiar activities may be feeling unwell or uncomfortable. Other changes to note include sleeping much more than usual, restlessness, reduced grooming, or vocalizing in a new way. These signs can be subtle, so compare them with your cat’s normal habits rather than with another cat’s behavior.
Write down what has changed and whether it happens at a particular time, during handling, or around a specific activity. Mention recent changes at home, such as a new pet, move, or routine, as well as any possible exposure to medication or unsafe substances. If the behavior change is sudden, severe, or paired with physical symptoms, call your veterinarian for advice.
Litter-Box Changes to Watch
Pay attention to how often your cat urinates or passes stool, the amount produced, and any change in appearance. Straining, crying in the box, repeatedly visiting without producing urine, urinating outside the box, diarrhea, constipation, or blood are all worth discussing with a veterinarian. Note whether your cat is also eating, drinking, or acting differently.
Repeated attempts to urinate with little or no urine can be an emergency, particularly in male cats. Contact a veterinary clinic right away rather than waiting to see if it passes. For other changes, keep the litter box clean and observe what you can without delaying a call if your cat seems distressed or the symptoms are getting worse.
What to Share With Your Vet
A brief record can help make an appointment more productive. Include when the change began, how often it happens, and whether it is improving or worsening. Note appetite, water intake, medications, food changes, and any vomiting, coughing, or mobility concerns. Photos or short videos may help show behavior that is difficult to describe, as long as taking them does not delay urgent care.
When you call, explain the most concerning sign first and ask how soon your cat should be seen. Do not give human medication or leftover prescriptions unless a veterinarian specifically instructs you to do so. Worcester Cat Care is a cat-only veterinary practice in Worcester, Massachusetts, where you can discuss changes in your cat’s routine and ask about appropriate care.
You know your cat’s usual patterns best. A clear note about changes in eating, behavior, or litter-box use can help your veterinarian assess what may be happening. If symptoms are sudden, severe, or include difficulty urinating, contact a veterinary clinic promptly. When you are unsure, call your veterinarian and describe what you have noticed.