Cat Eating Less or Refusing to Eat

Anorexia (refusal to eat) or hyporexia (eating less) in cats is a serious symptom that always warrants attention. Unlike some other animals, cats can develop a dangerous condition called hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) if they go without food for even a short period (24-48 hours), especially if they are overweight. Therefore, it's crucial to address any change in appetite promptly.

Potential Causes

Medical Conditions

• Dental Issues: Painful teeth, gum disease, or oral injuries can make eating uncomfortable or impossible.
• Gastrointestinal Problems: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, or foreign bodies can cause a loss of appetite.
• Kidney or Liver Disease: These conditions can lead to a build-up of toxins, causing nausea and reduced appetite.
• Infections: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can make a cat feel unwell and unwilling to eat.
• Cancer: Various forms of cancer can cause weight loss and appetite suppression.
• Pain: Any source of pain, such as arthritis, injury, or internal discomfort, can diminish a cat's desire to eat.
• Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs): If a cat cannot smell its food due to congestion, it may refuse to eat.

Environmental/Behavioral Factors

• Stress or Anxiety: Changes in routine, new pets, moving, loud noises, or even a new litter box can cause stress that impacts appetite.
• Food Aversion: The cat may simply dislike a new food, or their bowl might be dirty or poorly placed. Some cats are finicky.
• Heat or Season: Appetite can sometimes decrease during very hot weather.
• Vaccine Side Effects: Temporary lethargy and reduced appetite can occur after vaccinations.

What You Can Do (Temporarily, while seeking vet advice)

1. Check for Obvious Issues: Ensure fresh water is available. Check the food bowl is clean. Offer a variety of palatable foods (wet food, tuna in water, warmed food to enhance smell).
2. Ensure a Quiet Eating Spot: Make sure your cat feels safe and undisturbed while eating.
3. Monitor Other Symptoms: Look for vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, fever, or difficulty breathing, as these will help your vet.

When to See a Vet

It is essential to contact your veterinarian immediately if your cat has stopped eating for more than 24 hours, or if they are eating less and also showing other signs of illness (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, hiding, changes in urination/defecation). Even if your cat seems otherwise fine, prolonged refusal to eat can quickly become life-threatening due to hepatic lipidosis. This information is general guidance and not a diagnosis.