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Jae

He's extremely lethargic, not eating, and breathing heavily, my parents won't take him to the vet though. He's an older cat and I'm scared to lose him.

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Sammy
Cat, American Shorthair
10 years, Male
Issue details
Main concern
Others
Duration
3 day(s)
Ongoing
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Dr. Choe
Dr.Tail Vet

I'm truly sorry to hear about the symptoms your cat is experiencing. Lethargy, loss of appetite, and heavy breathing are indeed concerning, especially in an older cat with a history of Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). These signs could point to various health issues, such as respiratory infections, heart problems, or other systemic conditions that require immediate veterinary attention.

Given the seriousness of these symptoms and their persistence over the past few days, it's crucial to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Cats with FIV are more vulnerable to infections and other health complications, which can escalate quickly if not treated.

While you're arranging for veterinary care, try to keep your cat comfortable in a quiet and stress-free environment. Make sure he has access to fresh water and encourage him to drink, as staying hydrated is important. You might also try offering him a small amount of his favorite food or something particularly tempting, like tuna or chicken, to see if he will eat.

I understand that getting to a vet might be challenging, but it's important to convey the urgency of the situation to your parents. Explain that these symptoms can be life-threatening and that professional veterinary care is the best way to help your cat recover.

If you have any further questions or need more assistance, please feel free to reach out. Thank you.