Cats can be pretty picky eaters at times. However, if your cat is avoiding food for a long period of time, it can be indicative of an underlying issue. Here, our San Angelo vets share some reasons why your cat might not be eating and what you can do about it.
Cat Not Eating
There are numerous reasons why cats may refuse to eat. These can range from disliking their new food to experiencing pain and discomfort. Sorting out your cat's reason for not eating can be an upsetting and frustrating experience.
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 cat or kitten stops eating for more than a day there could be an underlying health issue causing your cat discomfort.
Less Concerning Reasons Why Your Cat Won't Eat
The following list includes some of the less serious reasons why your cat may be suffering from a lack of appetite:
- New food
- Stranger in the house
- Recent vaccinations
- Change in regular routine
- Motion sickness following travel
If any of these conditions apply in your cat's situation, you will likely find that your cat begins eating again within 24 hours, and will gradually return to normal. However, if your cat refuses food for more than a day it may be wise to book an appointment with your vet. When it comes to pet health, it's always better to err on the side of caution.
More Serious Reasons Why Your Cat May Not be Eating
GI Trouble
Some common gastrointestinal problems in cats that may cause them to stop eating can include: foreign objects trapped in their intestinal tract, intestinal parasites, urinary obstructions, cancer, colitis and significant changes to the composition of their gut bacteria.
GI issues can cause cats to feel nauseous and experience a lack of appetite. If your cat is suffering from a gastrointestinal issue they may show other symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
If your cat is showing signs of GI issues, it's time to see your vet. Gastrointestinal problems like those we've listed above are quite serious and may require emergency care. In cases like this, an early diagnosis and quick treatment plan are key.
Dental Health Issues
Just like people, cats can suffer from tooth decay and various mouth infections. You kitty may be refusing to eat because of pain caused by advanced tooth decay, broken or loose teeth and inflamed gums. An injury to the inside of their mouth may also make it too painful to them to eat.
If you believe that your cat is suffering from mouth pain it's time to call the vet. Your Memphis vet can clean your cat's teeth and do a thorough examination of your cat's mouth to check for any oral health problems.
Kidney Disease
Just like gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease can make your cat feel nauseous and refuse food. If your feline friend is suffering from kidney disease, you may notice other symptoms like drinking larger-than-normal amounts of water and frequent urination. Kidney disease is a relatively common condition in cats over seven years old.
Kidney disease can only be diagnosed and treated by your vet. If your cat is avoiding food and is showing signs of kidney disease, contact our San Angelo vets right away.
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.