Concerned because your cat has stopped eating? Pet owners aren't psychic, and it can feel like guesswork determining whether or not strange behavior constitutes an emergency, thankfully, we're here to help. In this post, our Visalia emergency vets offer up the most common reasons why a cat would stop eating, and signs that would indicate your cat's case is an emergency situation.
Cat Won't Eat
Cats are famously finicky eaters. This fact can often frustrate many a cat owner who has found themselves standing in front of the pantry, eyeing the new flavors of kitty food they’ve just purchased, and wonder if this or that one will pique their cat’s interest.
That said, if your kitty has gone 24 hours or more without eating, an underlying health issue may be the cause.
It Could Be Gastrointestinal Problems
Just like humans, cats can suffer gastrointestinal (GI) problems that can cause them to feel nauseated and lose their appetite. Often, though not always, cats suffering from GI issues will display other symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.
Common GI issues in cats include:
- A foreign object, such as a piece of plastic or plant, in your cat’s digestive tract
- Pancreatitis
- Cancer
- Parasites
- Colitis
- Urinary obstructions
- Cancer
- Gastroenteritis
- Changes in your cat’s intestinal bacteria
If you notice that your cat is experiencing weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation along with a reduced appetite, it’s time to call the vet.
Gastrointestinal issues such as the ones listed here are serious and your cat may need emergency care. Having these issues diagnosed and treated early on is critical to your cat’s health.
It Could Be Kidney Disease
For older cats, this is a relatively common condition that may cause your feline friend to feel nauseated, which may result in a refusal to eat. Other symptoms include drinking an excessive amount of water or urinating frequently.
Kidney disease can take one of two forms in cats. Your vet will be able to diagnose your pet and develop a treatment plan for this serious illness. If your senior cat (older than 7 years of age) is displaying symptoms beyond a pause in eating, book an appointment with your vet as soon as possible.
It Could Be Dental Issues
If dental issues are bothering her, this can cause your cat to experience pain in her mouth and lead to refusal to eat. Inflamed gums, loose or broken teeth, a dental abscess, an injury or foreign object in their mouth, advanced tooth decay, or other issues can cause significant pain, prompting them to stop eating.
If you suspect your cat may be suffering from mouth pain, contact your vet as soon as possible for an appointment so this issue can be diagnosed and treated.
Your vet will examine your cat, then perform a thorough dental cleaning of your four-legged friend’s teeth before diagnosing and addressing any issues that may be causing pain.
There Are Other Potential Causes
Cats can stop eating for numerous reasons not directly related to their general physical health, including:
- Depression or anxiety
- Recent vaccinations
- Motion sickness due to travel
- New food
- Change in normal routines
Any of these issues should not cause your cat to refuse more than one or two meals. If your cat won’t eat for any longer than this, it’s time to book an appointment with a veterinarian.
When It Is Time to Speak With an Emergency Vet.
If your cat has skipped more than one or two meals or is exhibiting any behaviors or symptoms that are causing you concern, contact us to schedule an appointment.
Because cats can get severely sick quickly, your furry friend’s long-term health may depend on early detection, diagnosis, and treatment.
About Tulare-Kings Veterinary Emergency Services
We work with your primary care veterinarian. Our emergency vets are equipped and qualified to provide attentive emergency care to cats and dogs from 5pm - 7:30am Monday to Thursday, and 24 hours from Friday through Sunday, 365 days a year. We close Mondays at 7:30am.
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.