Switched food, cat lethargic.

Hi guys,

I have a one year old male cat. Normally, he's bouncing off the walls and causing mayhem. I had him on Science Diet Adult dry food as a normal staple but, switched once in awhile between Science Diet Indoor dry and Purina One Adult dry with no problems.

Recently, I saw a commercial about Blue Buffalo and researched into it. I read great reviews, I was happy with the ingredients, etc. So, I switched him Saturday. Sunday, my normally rambunctious cat was passed out in the same spot all day. He was immediately responsive to touch so, I thought maybe it was just a lazy day for him and let him sleep it off.

Same story Monday. He was sleeping for about 22-23 hours. He is still immediately responsive to touch, drinking water just fine, eating just fine, no vomiting or diarrhea. His gums are bright and pink. He's not dehydrated, his temperature is normal. No weight loss or hair loss. His eyes are bright and alert (when he's awake).

Today (Tuesday), so far it's still the same story. He is still really sleepy but, no other symptoms. The only thing that's changed is the food.

Is this a normal reaction to the switch in diet?

It's not one I've ever seen - around here food issues involve vomiting or diarrhea.

Did you do a sudden switch instead of a gradual one? If so it's possible your cat could be feeling sick from it if you suddenly switched him. It's also possible that this is pure coincidence and that something else is going on entirely.

Best bet would be to talk to your vet.

Originally Posted by strange_wings

It's not one I've ever seen - around here food issues involve vomiting or diarrhea.

Did you do a sudden switch instead of a gradual one? If so it's possible your cat could be feeling sick from it if you suddenly switched him. It's also possible that this is pure coincidence and that something else is going on entirely.

Best bet would be to talk to your vet.

Click to expand...

Thanks for the swift response. It was a gradual switch. I did 50/50 Science Diet Adult with the Blue Buffalo Spa. I know the recommendation is 75% original food with 25% new food when switching but, I've never encountered any problems with switching him before so, I thought a 50/50 would be okay for a few days.

I do have a vet appointment for October 9th. With him not vomiting, no diarrhea, everything being normal and fine, do you think he'd be okay waiting until then to see the vet or should I try to get him in sooner?

If you got him in sooner it wouldn't make any difference cost wise, you're heading to the vet in around a week anyways. I'd at least call them and ask to talk to the vet for a moment - the phone call won't cost you anything (or at least only a few cents) and no one will think poorly of you at the clinic for being concerned.

Originally Posted by strange_wings

If you got him in sooner it wouldn't make any difference cost wise, you're heading to the vet in around a week anyways. I'd at least call them and ask to talk to the vet for a moment - the phone call won't cost you anything (or at least only a few cents) and no one will think poorly of you at the clinic for being concerned.

Click to expand...

Just got off the phone with the vet. They said if he has no other problems (EG: no vomiting, etc) that I probably switched him too fast to the new food and it could be causing some constipation/upset stomach. They recommended going to a 75/25 mix and to keep a good eye on him for any new symptoms.

Will keep you guys updated on any changes.

Thank you, again, Strange_Wings. I appreciate the advice. =)

I'm glad you called. Make sure he's drinking enough, too. If he gets a bit constipated that will help.
It's also good because if something does happen they should have some record/note of your call.
I hope he gets to feeling better soon.

I agree not one I have ever seen. I just wanted to add keep eye on skin color in ears and the whites of his eyes-if cat stops eating/liver issues it will yellow tinge-gradualy from barely noticable to very yellow. That would be something to call asap/get him in.

Originally Posted by catsallaround

I agree not one I have ever seen. I just wanted to add keep eye on skin color in ears and the whites of his eyes-if cat stops eating/liver issues it will yellow tinge-gradualy from barely noticable to very yellow. That would be something to call asap/get him in.

Click to expand...

Yes, thank you for the suggestion, Catsallaround. =) I'm very aware to look for jaundice. I've been checking his eyes, gums, ears for any color change. Everything, so far, is all normal. I hope it stays that way. *Fingers crossed*

Is your cat getting better now?

I'm happy to report that my cat is back to his obnoxious self. I got the scratches to prove it. =) Amazing what simple little changes can do to our beloved companions.

Early this morning, he lovingly glomped me then, when I went to let him out of the room, tackled my leg and ran like a scaredy cat only to return to my bedroom and attack my arm like it was a mouse.

I'm glad that he's feeling better. The two foods are pretty different so I can see why he'd need more time to adjust slowly.

I hope his check up on the 9th reports goes great.

I am also glad your cat is feeling better and back to normal.