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Appetite changes
Has your cat suddenly stopped eating, or started eating a lot more?
Edited by MaxTeng · Educational content, not reviewed by a veterinarian ·
Changed intake includes eating less, refusal, or eating more while losing weight. Investigate rather than assuming pickiness; contact a veterinarian for no or markedly reduced intake, especially in kittens or ill cats.
Possible medical causes
- Dental/oral pain, kidney and gastrointestinal disease can accompany reduced appetite and need assessment.
- Hyperthyroidism or diabetes may involve increased intake with weight loss and drinking/urination changes; this pattern is not a diagnosis.
Possible behavioral causes
- Pickiness/refusing new food: cats are naturally very sensitive to taste and texture, so a sudden food change is easily rejected
- Stress-induced anorexia: moving house, changes in household members, or environmental stress can all be triggers
Initial at-home suggestions
- Record food, bowl or household changes without assuming pickiness or a food-transition reaction
- Record the time, actual amount eaten, weight and other changes
- Note chewing, dropped food or drooling without forcing the mouth open
- Do not syringe-feed by force; ask the veterinarian about assessment and nutritional support
- Contact the clinic for no or markedly reduced intake; do not wait fixed hours or use hunger to force a new food
Related information and reading
Related app: Oddlo (Google Play · App Store)
Related guides
For reference only — please consult a vet.