Cat Health Problems: Eating

Cat owners all know the distress of having a cat who cannot or will not eat. Cats who stop eating, or eat less than they should, are a major source of worry and are a problem that requires immediate attention. A cat that's not eating enough will soon lose weight and become lethargic and depressed. There are many reasons why cats develop eating problems.

  1. Why Cats Have Problems Eating

    • Many cats suffer dental disease.

      Cats that stop eating or lose their appetites might be suffering from a number of conditions. If a cat hasn't seen a veterinarian recently, he may have dental decay or gum disease, making eating uncomfortable. Other health problems affecting eating are kidney and liver disease, infections anywhere in the body, and cancer or thyroid problems. Stress can also be a factor, especially if there have been household changes such as a new baby or pet joining the family, owners going on vacation or renovation works.

    Diagnosis

    • Loss of appetite may have a physical cause.

      Take your cat to the veterinarian to have his health checked, as a cat that isn't eating properly soon declines. Your veterinarian will check your cat's mouth for dental decay and inflammation. If there's no visible dental issue, the vet will take blood and urine samples for laboratory analysis and establish that the kidneys and liver are working correctly. He will also feel the cat's kidneys for irregularities, and check the heart and general health for underlying problems. If he finds the cat in good physical health, the issue is probably caused by stress.

    Treatments

    • Stress can cause a cat to stop eating.

      A cat with dental decay needs a general anesthetic. His teeth will be de-scaled and rotten teeth removed. Cats with diseases causing appetite loss will receive medications specific to the disease, plus a tailored prescription diet. Other types of appetite loss improve when the underlying issue, such as heart problems or a thyroid imbalance, has been addressed. If the issue is behavioral and caused by stress, identify the environmental factor upsetting your cat and alter it.

    Tips for Avoiding Eating Problems in Cats

    • Offer your cat's favorite foods.

      Taking cats to the veterinarian every year for a checkup and vaccinations is the most important preventive step. His teeth will be checked and his general health monitored for early signs of disease. The right diet is important, as cats eating only wet food often have dental issues. Feed your pet either a dry diet with fresh water, or give both quality kibble and wet feeds. Ensure a quiet, stress-free home with lots of toys and activities. Cats also appreciate plenty of affection, which keeps them happy and eating well. Know what your cat weighs, and look out for signs of weight loss.

    Feeding a Cat With No Appetite

    • Gentle encouragement is vital. Prepare your cat's favorite food and don't worry if it's not his typical diet- stimulating his appetite is more important. Veterinary prescription diets are nutrient-rich. Try trickling or squirting food paste into the mouth. Cook easily digestible foods like chicken by steaming it--offer the broth as well as the meat--and try mixing broths with his usual food. Feed separately to know how much he's eating. If a cat refuses food for more than two days, he may need feeding by syringe. Ask your vet for advice. Ensure he's drinking water.