Why Is My Cat Not Eating

This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.

Loss of appetite in cats is always concerning. Causes include illness, stress, dental pain, and kidney disease. When to seek help.

Understanding This Symptom

Cats hide illness well and compensate longer than most species — which is why a small change in routine often means more than it looks. This article covers the most common causes, warning signs that indicate an emergency, and what you can expect at the veterinarian.

Common Causes

Less Serious Causes

More Serious Causes

• Poisoning or toxic exposure

What to Watch For

• Lethargy or reluctance to move or play
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in stool

Home Care and First Steps

Veterinary Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will typically:

• Perform a thorough physical examination

Treatment Options

Prevention

Long-Term Management

When to Get a Second Opinion

Related Symptom Guides

• Why Is My Cat Vomiting?
• Why Is My Cat Hiding?
• Why Is My Cat Sneezing?
• Why Is My Cat Losing Weight?
• Why Is My Cat Panting?

Should I go to the emergency vet?

Go the same day if a cat has not eaten for more than a day, is hiding, or is drooling. Overweight cats develop hepatic lipidosis after a short fast. A single skipped breakfast in a cat that eats dinner can be watched. Open-mouth breathing with the fast means the emergency clinic.

How much will treatment cost?

A cat that skips more than a day of food needs a clinic, because hepatic lipidosis can start after a short fast in an overweight cat. The visit looks for fever, dehydration, mouth pain, and nausea. Fluids and bloodwork are the costs to ask about if the cat is flat.

Can I treat this at home?

Offer the usual food in a quiet room and note vomiting, drooling, or litter-box straining. Warming the food helps some nauseous cats and does nothing for a blocked male. Do not wait out a long weekend on broth.