Care of a Kitten That Refuses to Eat

In the first year of a cat's life, proper nutrition is essential for growth and overall health. Every now and then a kitten may decide to just not eat. For a number of reasons -- from boredom to illness -- a kitten might set forth on a hunger strike causing frustration and concern for the new pet owner. Sometimes the solution to this problem is as simple as determining the problem and addressing it.

Things You'll Need

  • Kitten chow
  • Clam juice or fish oil
  • Canned cat food
  • Tuna
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Instructions

    • 1

      Consider changing the brand or flavor of kitten chow you are currently giving your kitten. Your kitten may not care for the taste or may have simply become bored with it. If a recent change has brought on the loss of appetite, switch back to the food you know your kitten will eat.

    • 2

      Add new, exciting flavors to your kitten's food dish by pouring in clam juice or fish oil or by mixing in tuna wet food with the dry food. This will entice your kitten to come back to the bowl and eat.

    • 3

      Clean your kitten's food dish regularly. A dirty food dish may be unappealing. The strong smell of dish soap may also be a deterrent to your kitten so make sure to use a mild soap and rinse it well. Plastic food dishes are porous and may retain odors, making it smell unclean to your kitten. Consider switching to a ceramic or metal dish or clean the plastic dish regularly.

    • 4

      Show your kitten some love and affection by petting it gently and playing with it. Especially when your kitten is in a new environment, it may become stressed and lose its appetite.

    • 5

      Check inside your kitten's mouth. Sores or broken teeth may make it painful for your kitten to eat. If you notice anything that may be a culprit for your kitten's loss of appetite, switch to soft food until you can see your veterinarian.