Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo
  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

    rewards header
    Become a member today!
    Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
    Petco Pay LogoBecome a credit card member today!

    Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
    when you use Petco Pay!

    APPLY NOW
    Learn More About Petco Pay Benefits

My cat has an upset stomach and won't eat. How do I help him recover?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Bombay | Male | neutered | 9 lbs

I took my cat to the vet yesterday since he has not been eating they told me he might have eaten something that made his stomach upset. His stomach is pretty much kind of empty. They gave me a liquid medicine to give him after we force feed him. He is not drinking alot off water either. My questions are how long should we force feed him for, when can I make sure he is doing better, how do I give him the liquid medicine without him spitting it out, and how do I get him to drink more water. Thanks

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 25, 2017

I'm sorry Leonidas isn't doing well at the moment! It is concerning that you have to force feed him and if you still have to do that tomorrow, I would take him back into a vet right away. There are medications that the vet can give that may stimulate his appetite. He may also benefit from IV fluids to keep him from getting dehydrated. You can see if he will eat canned food, that has a higher moisture content. I wouldn't recommended trying to force him to drink water, as he could easily aspirate the water. IV fluids at the vet are best. I don't know what kind of liquid medicine he is taking, but check with your vet to see if you can mix it with food to keep him from spitting it out. I hope this helps and he feels better soon!
Vote Icon1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Smart Picks for Smart Questions

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Share

Styled arrow button