Cat Not Eating, what should i do? December 4, 2024 Category: Blog Possible health issues:Dental Problems: Cats with sore gums or bad teeth might find it painful to chew.Kidney Disease: Common in older cats, this can cause nausea and a loss of appetite.GI Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation? Could be something funky going on in their digestive system.What to Do:If your cat hasn’t eaten in over 24 hours, it’s time to call the vet. Don’t wait too long—cats are prone to a condition called hepatic lipidosis (fancy term for fatty liver disease), which can get serious fast.3. Food Preferences or Aversion ????️Cats can be snobs. Maybe you switched their food recently, and they’re not impressed. Or perhaps their current food has gone stale—yes, cats can taste the difference.Things to check:Is the food fresh?Did you accidentally buy a different brand or flavor?Have you been sneaking them too many treats, so now they’re holding out for the good stuff?What to Do:Try warming up their wet food—it makes it smell more enticing. If you’ve changed brands, consider transitioning slowly. Mix the old food with the new one to help them adjust.4. Environmental Factors ????️Temperature, noise, or even the placement of their food bowl can play a role. Cats can be super sensitive to their surroundings.Potential culprits:Too Hot or Cold: Extreme temperatures can mess with their appetite.Bowl Location: Is their bowl in a noisy or high-traffic area? They might feel too exposed to eat.Dirty Dishes: Cats appreciate cleanliness. A grimy bowl? Nope, hard pass.What to Do:Move their bowl to a quieter spot and ensure it’s squeaky clean. If it’s hot, consider offering wet food for hydration. In colder weather, a slightly warmed meal can do the trick.5. Recent Vaccinations or Medications ????If your cat’s just been to the vet for shots or has started a new medication, this could be the culprit. Sometimes, vaccines and meds can cause temporary nausea or make your cat feel a little off.What to Expect:This loss of appetite usually resolves itself within a day or two. If it doesn’t, give your vet a quick call to discuss.6. Aging and Appetite Changes ????Older cats tend to eat less, but a sudden drop in appetite shouldn’t be ignored. Aging can come with a host of new health concerns, from arthritis to reduced sense of smell or taste.What to Watch For:Weight lossLethargyChanges in bathroom habitsWhat to Do:Regular vet check-ups are essential for senior cats. Your vet might recommend a diet tailored to their age and health needs.When to Worry ????Cats are notorious for hiding illnesses, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on their behavior. If your kitty hasn’t eaten in 24-48 hours, or if they show any of the following symptoms, call your vet ASAP:Vomiting or diarrheaLethargyDroolingRapid weight lossDifficulty breathingHow to Tempt a Picky Eater ????If your cat’s just being finicky, here are a few tricks to get them back on track:Switch to Wet Food: It's more aromatic and easier to eat.Add a Topping: A sprinkle of tuna juice or shredded chicken might do the trick.Hand-Feed Them: Sometimes, a little personal touch can coax them into eating.Try Different Textures: Some cats prefer pate, while others go wild for chunks in gravy.Final ThoughtsYour cat not eating is definitely a cause for concern, but more often than not, it’s something manageable. Whether it’s stress, health, or just a picky phase, a little patience (and maybe a vet visit) will help your furry friend get back to their usual self. Keep an eye on them, and remember, a happy cat is a well-fed cat.