It can be difficult to determine why your cat isn't eating. Here, we share a few common reasons why your cat may be refusing to eat and what you can do to help.
Cat Not Eating
If your cat won't eat several things could be at the root of the issue, ranging from disliking their new food to pain or discomfort. Figuring out your cat's reason for not eating can be challenging and upsetting.
If your feline friend skips one or two meals but then goes back to eating as normal, there likely isn't anything to worry about. On the other hand, if your kitty stops eating for more than a day there could be an underlying health issue causing your cat discomfort.
Common Reasons Why Your Cat May Not be Eating
The following are some of the less serious reasons why your cat may be suffering from a lack of appetite:
- New food
- Recent vaccinations
- Motion sickness following travel
- Change in routine
- Stranger in the house
If any of these conditions apply in your cat's situation, you will likely find that your feline friend begins eating again within 24 hours and will gradually return to normal. That said, if your kitty refuses food for more than a day it's a good idea to book an appointment with your vet. When it comes to your cat's health, it's always better to err on the side of caution.
More Serious Reasons Why Your Cat May Not be Eating
GI Trouble
Common gastrointestinal (GI) problems in cats can include parasites, foreign objects trapped in the intestinal tract, gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, urinary obstruction, colitis, cancer, or changes in gut intestinal bacteria.
GI issues can make your kitty feel nauseous and experience a lack of appetite. If your cat is suffering from a gastrointestinal issue it may show other symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
If your cat is showing signs of a GI problem, it's time to see your vet. Gastrointestinal problems such as those listed above are serious and may require emergency care, early diagnosis and treatment are key.
GI issues could also be caused by the ingestion of a foreign object such as the string off of a tasty roast. The ingestion of a foreign object is a very serious threat to the health of both cats and dogs and should be treated as an emergency situation. If you know that your cat has eaten something they shouldn't, don't hesitate to call your vet right away for further instructions!
Dental Health Issues
Like people, cats can suffer from tooth decay, periodontal disease, and painful mouth infections. Your cat may be refusing to eat due to pain caused by advanced tooth decay, inflamed gums, broken or loose teeth, a dental abscess, or an injury to the inside of their mouth caused by a foreign object.
If you believe that your cat is suffering from mouth pain you should call the vet. Your veterinarian should be able to clean your cat's teeth and do a thorough examination of your pet's mouth to check for any oral health problems. If your cat has a broken or severely decayed tooth dental surgery may be required.
Kidney Disease
Much like gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease can make cats feel nauseous and refuse to eat. If your cat is suffering from kidney disease you may notice other symptoms such as drinking large amounts of water and frequent urination. Kidney disease is relatively common in cats over seven years of age. Kidney disease can only be diagnosed and treated by a veterinarian.
If your cat has stopped eating and is showing other symptoms of kidney disease contact your vet to book an appointment.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.