Why Has My Cat Suddenly Gone Off Their Food?
Cats are known for being picky eaters, so it’s not unusual for them to turn their noses up at a meal now and then. But if your feline friend suddenly stops eating altogether, it’s natural to feel a little concerned.
Often, a loss of appetite is simply your cat’s way of saying something’s off — and in many cases, the cause is something minor and easily managed. Occasionally, it might point to something that needs attention from your vet.
Let’s take a closer look at some common reasons your cat may have gone off their food, and the simple steps you can take to help them get back on track.
Please note that this information does not constitute professional pet care advice.
Table of contents
1. Medical reasons
a. Dental problems
Toothaches, gum disease, or oral infections can make eating painful. If your cat suddenly avoids food, especially dry kibble, it might be due to dental discomfort. Look for signs like drooling, pawing at the mouth, or even bad breath.
b. Digestive issues
Nausea, constipation, or other gastrointestinal problems may cause a cat to avoid food. Vomiting, diarrhea, or a swollen abdomen can indicate these issues.
c. Infections or illness
A viral or bacterial infection can cause a temporary drop in appetite. Cats with fevers, upper respiratory infections (which affect smell and taste), or even a common cold may stop eating until they feel better.
d. Kidney or liver disease
In older cats, a reduced appetite can sometimes be linked to chronic conditions like kidney or liver disease. These issues are more common as cats age and may come with other signs like increased thirst, subtle weight loss, or lower energy levels. While that might sound worrying, many of these conditions can be managed effectively with the help of your vet, especially when caught early.
2. Behavioral or environmental factors
a. Stress and anxiety
A new pet in the house, loud noises, a recent move, or other changes in their environment can cause stress for your cat, leading to a reduced appetite. Even subtle changes like a new type of litter or different feeding schedule might unsettle them.
b. Food changes
Have you recently switched food brands or flavors? Cats can be resistant to change and might reject unfamiliar tastes or smells at first.
c. Boredom with food
On the flip side, some cats lose interest in eating the same meal day after day. Rotating flavors or adding a topper may rekindle their appetite.
3. External causes
a. Spoiled or contaminated food
Check the expiration date and smell of your cat’s food. Spoiled food, even if it looks fine, can put them off eating.
b. Hot weather
Just like people, cats may eat less during hot spells. If this coincides with seasonal temperature increases, it may be nothing to worry about unless it's persistent and/or other symptoms appear.
When to contact a vet
If your cat hasn’t eaten for more than 24 to 48 hours, you should check in with your vet, just to be on the safe side — especially if your cat is very young, a senior, or has any underlying health conditions.
However, if you notice additional symptoms like vomiting, low energy, or unusual behavior, contact your vet sooner rather than waiting.
Things to try yourself
- Offer a variety of foods — wet, dry, and different flavors.
- Warm up wet food slightly to improve the aroma.
- Try hand-feeding or offering treats to stimulate appetite.
- Create a calm feeding environment — quiet, safe, and away from other pets.
Final thoughts
A sudden loss of appetite in cats is always worth paying attention to, but it doesn’t always mean something serious is wrong. In many cases, the cause is mild and easily sorted out. Still, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on things and reach out to your vet if you’re unsure.
Understanding your cat’s habits, watching for other symptoms, and acting quickly can make all the difference in keeping them healthy and happy.
Do you have any tips or advice of your own? Comment down below.
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More by Rachel M.
