Why Is My Cat Not Eating?

Cats can be famously fussy, but a cat who stops eating needs more attention than a dog who skips a meal. When cats don’t eat, their bodies can quickly develop a dangerous liver problem. So it’s important to act early.

See a vet if your cat

• hasn’t eaten anything for 24 hours (sooner for kittens, or if they’re overweight)
• is vomiting, has diarrhoea, or is hiding and very quiet
• is drooling, pawing at their mouth, or struggling to chew
• is straining in the litter box or hasn’t weed
• is losing weight

Common everyday reasons

• Food changes: cats often refuse a new food, especially if switched suddenly.
• Stale or cold food: wet food left out quickly loses its appeal.
• Stress: visitors, moving house, new pets or a noisy feeding spot.
• Dirty or deep bowls: some cats dislike their whiskers touching the sides.
• Sore teeth or gums.

How to tempt a fussy (but healthy) cat

1. Warm wet food slightly to body temperature to boost the smell.
2. Use a wide, shallow bowl and keep it spotlessly clean.
3. Feed in a quiet spot, away from the litter box and other pets.
4. Change food slowly, mixing new and old over 7 to 10 days.
5. Offer small, fresh portions more often.
6. Never force a cat to fast to make them eat a new food. It’s dangerous for cats.

The heart of it

Cats are masters at hiding when they feel unwell, so a skipped meal is one of the few clues they give us. Trust your instinct, call your vet when in doubt, and with the right food and a calm space, most cats are soon purring over their bowl again.