Lethargic cat not eating

[fiorentina]

I have a 9 month old cat who unusually for him, disappeared all day yesterday returning last night covered in cobwebs. He ate and drank a bit on his return but since then has hardly eaten and seems lethargic. He is cleaninf himself as normal but is quite clingy. How long should I leave it before I take him to the vet and anything I should check for in the meantime. He has a litter tray but never uses it usually, however I've shut the cat flap to keep an eye on him. Thanks in advance.

Going off their food is a problem for cats as they can then develop hepatic lipidosis.

Given his out of character disappearance and the fact he isn't himself today, I'd take him to the vets tomorrow if no improvement through the next few hours.

He could just be exhausted from doing whatever he was doing away from home & will bounce back come tomorrow. If he's no better by the morning, take him to vet for a checkup. My vet told me that a cat not eating for more than 48 hours is not a good sign. Does he have something hurting his mouth?

Nothing visibly hurting, and he is happy to be touched, I've checked him over as much as I can without irritating him. If he was trapped somewhere maybe he's just feeling anxious. Good to know a vet would give it 48 hours. Will ask DH to pop home during the day and keep an eye on him and take him to the vet if necessary or I'm home on Wednesday if he needs a vet.

He does look 'sad' though.

Wise to keep him shut in and see how he is the morning, if no improvement v-e-t. He may have just eaten something which has made him feel a bit off and be ok in the morning.

I'd go to the vets, lethargic and not eating are big red flags.

Our cat was like this after he went missing, turned out he had a tick on his foot. Once we got it out he perked up no end.

I will check him for ticks thank you and take to the vet if he hasn't perked up. I have had cats before but they were never really ill fortunately.

Thanks for all your help. He's back eating, resting more than usual but has bright eyes and is far happier!