Why Is My Cat Not Eating?

A cat that abruptly ceases eating often signals a potential underlying issue. While cats are known for being selective eaters, a complete refusal to eat is not normal behavior. If your cat shows reluctance to eat, skipping several meals or abstaining from food for a day or two, it is crucial to take prompt action. Lack of appetite in cats can lead to additional complications. While there are some home remedies to stimulate your cat's appetite, professional veterinary assistance may be required. Here's an exploration of why your cat might not be eating and the appropriate steps to take.

Why Do Cats Stop Eating?

Although your cat's disinterest in the food provided could be due to personal preferences, a diminished appetite is often a symptom of an underlying problem. Cats may abstain from eating if there's an obstruction in their stomach or intestines, if they're unwell due to an underlying disease or infection, or if they are experiencing pain or discomfort. Even stress can impact a cat's eating habits. Regardless of the cause, it is a matter of concern when a cat stops eating.

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory issues can affect a cat's sense of smell or ability to breathe, leading to a loss of appetite. Upper respiratory diseases may cause nasal and eye discharge, temporarily impairing sight and smell. Lower respiratory tract diseases can affect the lungs, causing difficulty in breathing. These issues may result from bacterial or viral infections, ranging from basic care needs to more complex conditions like cancer.

Digestive System Issues

Complications in the stomach, intestines, pancreas, or other digestive system parts can cause a cat to lose interest in food. Vomiting, gas, diarrhea, or abdominal pain may accompany these digestive problems, with a diminished appetite being an early sign. Conditions include gastroenteritis, acid reflux, tumors, bacterial imbalances, parasites, inflammatory bowel disease, and other digestive system-related issues.

Foreign Bodies

Some cats may ingest inappropriate items or swallow hair, leading to potential obstructions in the stomach or intestines. A foreign body causing obstruction won't permit food passage through the digestive tract, resulting in vomiting and likely cessation of eating. While some foreign bodies may pass through causing temporary upset, others may necessitate surgical removal.

Dental Disease

Diseased or painful teeth and gums can deter a cat from eating. Fractured teeth, resorptive lesions, inflammation of gums, dental abscesses, and other oral issues may cause discomfort, similar to humans refusing to eat when experiencing mouth pain. Diagnosing dental issues in cats may require sedation or anesthesia for a thorough evaluation.

Stress

Stress and anxiety can lead to appetite loss in cats, often triggered by changes in the home environment such as moving, conflicts with other pets, or loud noises like construction or fireworks.

Food Preferences

Cats can be particular about food flavors, shapes, and textures. A sudden rejection of food may occur if manufacturers alter flavors or ingredients without clear packaging indications. Some cats prefer variety and may get bored with the same food flavor over time.

Food Spoilage

Feeding expired or spoiled food can discourage a cat from eating. Checking the expiration date and proper storage is crucial. Even dry cat food can become stale or rancid, emphasizing the importance of storing it in its original bag.

What to Do If Your Cat Won't Eat

If your cat refuses its usual food, check for recalls on that brand and formula. Cats can sense issues with their food, so if a new offering is also rejected, contacting your veterinarian is necessary. Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) if they go without food for a few days, especially if they are overweight. Prompt action is crucial.

Treatment for Loss of Appetite in Cats

As cats may stop eating for various reasons, treatment depends on the underlying cause. A veterinarian will conduct a physical examination, recommend lab tests, and imaging (X-rays or ultrasound) to formulate a treatment plan based on the results.

How to Prevent Loss of Appetite in Cats

While the underlying causes may not always be preventable, steps can be taken to maintain a cat's interest in food. Storing cat food in a cool, dry area and avoiding extreme temperatures and humidity is essential. Keeping dry food in its original bag inside a sealed container helps maintain freshness. Routine wellness visits are crucial for early detection of health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How long can a cat go without eating?

   • While cats may technically survive without food for up to a week or two, the process of converting fat stores into energy burdens the liver. After only two to three days of not eating, cats may develop hepatic lipidosis, a severe condition that can be fatal.

2. Why is my cat not eating but not sick?

   • Cats are adept at hiding illness, and a lack of appetite is often the first sign of an underlying issue. Spoiled or changed food preferences can also affect a cat's eating habits even when they feel otherwise normal.

In conclusion, if your cat exhibits a diminished appetite, especially if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consulting with a veterinarian is crucial for a timely and accurate diagnosis and treatment.