My Cat Won't Eat. Why?

Is your feline family member refusing to eat no matter what you put out for them? It can certainly be frustrating when cats are not eating, but it can also be a sign of an underlying health problem. Our Tucson vets explain.

Why won't my cat eat?

Cats are known for finicky eating! In fact, cat owners around the world find themselves scanning the pet food shelves in search of new, interesting meals their cats will enjoy.

Despite our best efforts, our feline friends will not eat everything we put in front of them. When your cat refuses to eat, it's time to look for reasons other than picky eating. If your cat hasn't eaten in more than 24 hours, an underlying health problem could be the cause.

Kidney Disease

A relatively common condition in older cats, kidney disease may cause your fluffy friend to feel nauseated, which can lead to a refusal to eat. Other symptoms include drinking lots of water and urinating frequently.

Two forms of kidney disease are common in cats. Only your vet will be able to diagnose and treat this serious disease. If your older cat (over 7 years of age) has stopped eating or is exhibiting other symptoms of kidney disease, make an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.

Dental Issues

A variety of dental issues can cause pain in your cat's mouth, leading to a refusal to eat. An injury in their mouth caused by a foreign object, a dental abscess, inflamed gums, advanced tooth decay, or loose or broken teeth can all be painful.

If you suspect your cat is suffering from mouth pain book a vet exam for them as soon as possible. Dental problems tend to become more painful and more severe with time.

Your vet can perform a detailed dental examination and thorough cleaning of your cat’s teeth. Afterward, they will provide you with a diagnosis of your kitty's oral health problem and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Just like their humans, gastrointestinal (GI) problems can cause cats to feel nauseated and consequently, experience a drop in their appetite. Cats suffering from GI issues will often (but not always) display other symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, constipation and weight loss.

Common GI issues in cats include:

It’s time to see your vet if you notice that your cat is experiencing weight loss, diarrhea, constipation or vomiting in addition to loss of appetite.

Gastrointestinal issues, including the ones listed above, are serious and may warrant emergency care or the advanced care of an internal medicine specialist. Getting a diagnosis and early treatment for these GI issues is important for your cat’s health, and should be done as early as possible.

Other Possible Causes

Cats may refuse to eat for a number of reasons not directly related to their overall physical health, including:

These issues should only cause your cat to skip two meals at most - no more. If your cat refuses to eat for any longer, it’s time for a visit to the vet.

When should I visit a vet?

If your cat has skipped more than one or two meals, or is exhibiting any behaviors or symptoms you’re concerned about, contact your vet right away or visit your nearest animal emergency hospital.

Because cats can quickly become seriously ill, early diagnosis and treatment are critical to your feline friend’s long-term health.

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.

Is your cat refusing to eat? Contact our Tucson vets today for an appointment.