Why Is My Cat Not Eating or Drinking? Causes, Treatments, and When to See a Vet

Table of Content:

1. Why your Cat is not Eating? Common Causes of Appetite Loss in Cats
2. When to Worry: Signs Your Cat Needs a Vet
3. Preventing Appetite Loss in Cats: Long-Term Strategies for a Healthy Diet
4. Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Cat’s Appetite Healthy
5. Frequently Asked Questions About Cats Not Eating and Their Health

Cats are known for their independent and sometimes finicky eating habits, but if your cat refuses food or water entirely, it may signal a serious health concern. Loss of appetite, also known as anorexia in cats, can stem from stress, illness, dental pain, digestive issues, or even environmental changes. When paired with a refusal to drink water, the risk of dehydration and organ failure increases significantly.

A cat that stops eating for more than 24 hours or refuses water for 12 hours should be closely monitored. Cats rely on a consistent intake of food and water to maintain proper liver function. If left untreated, hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) can develop, which can be life-threatening. Understanding the possible causes and solutions will help determine whether home care is sufficient or if a veterinary visit is necessary.

Why your Cat is not Eating? Common Causes of Appetite Loss in Cats

Many factors can cause a cat to stop eating and drinking, from temporary discomfort to underlying medical conditions. Below are the most common reasons why a cat refuses food or water.

1. Stress and Anxiety Can Cause a Cat to Stop Eating

Cats are highly sensitive to changes in their environment, and even minor disruptions can lead to appetite loss. Stress-related anorexia is particularly common in cats experiencing:

1. New household changes (moving, loud noises, visitors)
2. Introduction of a new pet or family member
3. Litter box issues (dirty box, new location, wrong type of litter)
4. Changes in routine (different feeding times, owner absence)
5. Recent veterinary visits, travel, or boarding

When a cat is stressed, their body releases cortisol, a hormone that can reduce hunger signals. Some cats also associate stress with food aversion, making them avoid meals even when they are hungry. If your cat has recently undergone a stressful event, try offering a quiet feeding area, using a pheromone diffuser, or keeping a consistent routine to help them feel secure.

Related Article: Learn more about how stress affects cats in Why Do Cats Knead?

2. Illness or Pain May Cause a Cat to Stop Eating and Drinking

One of the most common reasons a cat won’t eat or drink is an underlying medical issue. Cats often hide pain, so appetite loss is usually an early sign of an illness. Medical conditions that commonly cause eating and drinking problems in cats include:

1. Kidney disease – Increased thirst, nausea, and reduced appetite.
2. Liver disease – Jaundice (yellow gums/skin), lethargy, and food aversion.
3. Diabetes – Sudden weight loss, excessive thirst, and loss of appetite.
4. Pancreatitis – Abdominal pain, vomiting, and lack of interest in food.
5. Cancer or tumors – Weight loss, decreased activity, and trouble swallowing.

If your cat has stopped eating or drinking and appears weak, lethargic, or is losing weight, a veterinarian should examine them immediately. Waiting too long can lead to severe dehydration and organ damage.

Related Article: If your cat’s eyes are watering along with appetite loss, it may indicate an infection. Read Why Are My Cat’s Eyes Watering?.

3. Dental Disease Can Make Eating Painful for Cats

Dental problems are a leading cause of appetite loss in cats, particularly in older felines. Eating becomes painful when a cat has inflamed gums, infected teeth, or oral sores, leading to a complete rejection of food.

Signs of Dental Pain in Cats

1. Drooling or bad breath
2. Pawing at the mouth
3. Avoiding hard food or chewing on one side
4. Visible swelling or redness in the gums

Common dental conditions like gingivitis, tooth resorption, or stomatitis can cause significant pain. Switching to soft or wet food and scheduling a dental checkup can help resolve the issue.

Fact Check: 50-90% of cats over age four suffer from dental disease, leading to reduced appetite and oral pain (American Veterinary Dental College).

4. Digestive Problems and Nausea Can Make Cats Avoid Food

Cats with stomach upset or nausea often refuse food and water because eating makes them feel worse. Digestive issues can be triggered by:

1. Gastrointestinal infections
2. Hairballs blocking digestion
3. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
4. Food allergies or intolerances

Signs Your Cat May Have a Digestive Issue

1. Vomiting or diarrhea
2. Bloating or gas
3. Lip licking or excessive drooling (a sign of nausea)
4. Hunched posture (indicating abdominal discomfort)

A cat with nausea may appear hungry but sniffs food and walks away. If vomiting persists, a vet visit is necessary to check for underlying conditions like gastritis or pancreatitis.

5. Cats With Kidney or Liver Disease Often Lose Their Appetite

Chronic illnesses like kidney failure and liver disease can cause a cat to stop eating and drinking due to nausea, dehydration, and general weakness. Older cats are particularly at risk for these conditions.

Symptoms of Kidney or Liver Disease in Cats

1. Increased thirst and urination
2. Sudden weight loss and lethargy
3. Jaundice (yellow gums, eyes, or ears)
4. Vomiting or bad breath (ammonia-like smell)

Cats with chronic conditions require special diets and hydration support to manage their symptoms.

6. Aging and Appetite Changes in Senior Cats

As cats age, their metabolism slows down, and their sense of smell and taste weakens, making food less appealing. Senior cats may also develop arthritis, joint pain, or neurological conditions that make eating difficult.

How to Encourage Older Cats to Eat?

1. Warm up their food slightly to enhance aroma.
2. Offer softer textures to make chewing easier.
3. Use appetite stimulants prescribed by a vet if needed.

Older cats should have regular checkups to detect and manage age-related conditions affecting appetite.

Fact Check: Studies show that cats over 12 years old are twice as likely to experience appetite loss due to sensory decline and health issues (National Library of Medicine).

Related: Cat Years to Human Years: How to Calculate – Understanding your cat’s age in human years can help manage age-related dietary and health changes.

7. Food-Related Issues: Cats Reject Stale or Unfamiliar Food

Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden food changes can cause them to stop eating. If your cat suddenly rejects their food, consider:

1. Food freshness – Stale, expired, or improperly stored food may be unappetizing.
2. Temperature – Some cats prefer food at room temperature instead of cold.
3. Texture changes – Some cats dislike new brands or formulations.
4. Bowl aversion – Some cats don’t like deep or reflective bowls.

If switching foods, do so gradually by mixing new food with old food over 7–10 days. If food changes are necessary for health reasons, such as pregnancy or lactation, transitioning diets properly ensures continued nutrition.

Related: How to Know If a Cat Is Pregnant: Identifying Early Signs – Pregnant cats may experience temporary appetite loss but require increased nutrition.

When to Worry: Signs Your Cat Needs a Vet

Cats can be independent and sometimes stubborn eaters, but when a cat stops eating or drinking for an extended period, it can lead to serious health issues. Unlike some animals that can fast for extended periods, cats rely on consistent nutrition to keep their liver and metabolism functioning properly. If food refusal lasts more than 24 hours, or your cat refuses water for 12 hours, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately.

Understanding the warning signs of serious health problems can help cat owners take timely action and prevent severe complications.

1. How Long Can a Cat Go Without Eating or Drinking?

A cat can survive 3–4 days without food, but after 24 hours of not eating, the risk of hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) increases significantly. Water is even more critical—a cat can become dangerously dehydrated within 12–24 hours of not drinking.

Without Food	Without Water	Health Consequences
12–24 hours	12 hours	Mild lethargy, loss of appetite
24–48 hours	24 hours	Dehydration, digestive upset
48+ hours	36+ hours	Risk of hepatic lipidosis, kidney damage
3+ days	48+ hours	Organ failure, life-threatening condition

If your cat is completely refusing food and water, contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.

2. Symptoms That Indicate an Emergency

If your cat is showing any of the following symptoms along with appetite loss, immediate veterinary care is needed.

Serious Symptoms Requiring Urgent Vet Attention

1. Lethargy or weakness – A cat that is avoiding movement or sleeping excessively.
2. Rapid weight loss – Losing weight within a few days is a red flag.
3. Vomiting or diarrhea – Can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
4. Dehydration – Dry gums, sunken eyes, or skin that doesn’t snap back when pinched.
5. Jaundice (yellow gums or skin) – Sign of liver disease or fatty liver syndrome.
6. Bad breath or drooling – Possible dental disease or kidney failure.
7. Labored breathing or coughing – May indicate respiratory infection or fluid buildup.
8. Visible pain signs – Hunched posture, reluctance to move, or hiding for extended periods.

How to Check for Dehydration at Home

1. Gently lift the skin at the back of the neck. If it slowly returns to its original position instead of snapping back, your cat is likely dehydrated.
2. Look at the gums. Healthy gums should be pink and moist. Dry, sticky, or pale gums may indicate dehydration or an underlying illness.

Dehydration can quickly lead to kidney failure and organ damage, so if your cat hasn’t drunk water for 12–24 hours, a vet visit is crucial.

3. How Vets Diagnose Why a Cat Isn’t Eating or Drinking

A veterinarian will perform a full physical exam and diagnostic tests to determine why your cat has stopped eating.

Common Veterinary Tests for Appetite Loss

Diagnostic Test	Purpose	What It Detects
Bloodwork (CBC, Chemistry Panel)	Evaluates organ function and blood cells	Kidney disease, liver issues, infection
X-rays or Ultrasound	Checks internal organs	Tumors, blockages, inflammation
Urinalysis	Tests kidney and bladder function	Dehydration, diabetes, kidney disease
Oral Exam	Examines teeth and gums	Dental disease, ulcers, infections
Fecal Test	Looks for parasites or bacteria	Gastrointestinal infections
Thyroid Testing	Measures hormone levels	Hyperthyroidism, metabolism issues

Once the cause is identified, the vet will recommend a treatment plan tailored to your cat’s specific condition.

4. How to Get a Cat to Eat: Home Remedies

If your cat is refusing food but isn’t showing emergency symptoms, there are several strategies you can try at home to encourage eating.

Ways to Encourage a Cat to Eat

1. Warm up wet food slightly to enhance the smell and make it more appealing.
2. Try a different texture or flavor—some cats prefer shredded meat over pâté, or fish over chicken.
3. Add a small amount of tuna juice or bone broth to their food for extra flavor.
4. Hand-feed small portions to encourage eating.
5. Use interactive feeding toys or food puzzles to stimulate interest in meals.
6. Provide a quiet, stress-free feeding area away from loud noises or other pets.

Some cats respond well to appetite stimulants, such as mirtazapine (prescription) or CBD-based pet supplements (vet-approved only).

If your cat refuses food for more than 24 hours despite home efforts, consult a veterinarian for further evaluation.

5. What to Feed a Cat That Won’t Eat

If your cat has stopped eating, offering the right type of food can make a big difference. Some textures, flavors, and nutrient-dense foods may be more appealing to cats who have lost their appetite.

Best Foods for a Cat That Won’t Eat

Food Type	Why It Helps
Wet food (pâté or gravy-style)	Easier to eat and has stronger aroma
Baby food (meat-based, no onions/garlic)	Soft and highly digestible
Boiled chicken or turkey	Gentle on the stomach, protein-rich
Bone broth	Hydrating and full of nutrients
Prescription recovery diets (Hill’s a/d, Royal Canin Recovery)	Specially formulated for sick cats
Tuna water (not oil)	Enhances flavor and encourages eating

Avoid forcing food into your cat’s mouth, as this can create a negative feeding association. Instead, try offering small, frequent meals.

6. How to Get a Dehydrated Cat to Drink Water

A cat that isn’t drinking water is at risk of dehydration. If your cat refuses to drink, try these methods:

Ways to Encourage a Cat to Drink Water

1. Switch to a cat water fountain—many cats prefer running water.
2. Add water or broth to wet food to increase moisture intake.
3. Use a shallow, wide bowl—some cats dislike deep bowls that touch their whiskers.
4. Place multiple water bowls around the house in easily accessible spots.
5. Try flavored water additives (vet-approved electrolyte solutions).

If your cat still refuses water after 12–24 hours, consult a vet immediately. They may need subcutaneous fluids (under-the-skin hydration) or IV fluids to prevent serious complications.

Preventing Appetite Loss in Cats: Long-Term Strategies for a Healthy Diet

Loss of appetite in cats can be caused by stress, illness, aging, or environmental factors, but taking proactive steps can help prevent food refusal before it becomes a serious issue. Since cats are creatures of habit, maintaining a consistent feeding routine, a stress-free environment, and proper nutrition can significantly reduce the risk of appetite loss.

This section covers practical strategies to keep your cat eating well and hydrated long-term.

1. Establish a Consistent Feeding Routine

Cats thrive on routine, and sudden changes to their meal schedule can lead to stress and food aversion. To encourage healthy eating habits:

1. Feed your cat at the same time every day to create a predictable routine.
2. Choose a quiet feeding area away from noise and distractions.
3. Use a designated feeding station where your cat feels comfortable eating.
4. Avoid frequent food changes, as cats may reject unfamiliar flavors or textures.
5. Monitor portion sizes to prevent overeating or food boredom.

Keeping a consistent routine helps reduce stress-related appetite loss and makes it easier to detect changes in eating behavior.

2. Choose the Right Food for Your Cat’s Needs

Feeding your cat a balanced, species-appropriate diet plays a major role in maintaining their appetite and overall health. Different cats have different dietary needs based on age, activity level, and medical conditions.

Best Diet Based on Life Stage

Life Stage	Recommended Diet
Kittens (0-12 months)	High-protein, high-fat food for growth
Adult Cats (1-7 years)	Balanced dry or wet food with essential nutrients
Senior Cats (7+ years)	Easily digestible food with joint support and hydration

Dry vs. Wet Food: Which Is Better?

1. Wet food is ideal for hydration, preventing kidney disease and urinary issues.
2. Dry food helps with dental health, but should be supplemented with fresh water.
3. A mixed diet of both wet and dry food can provide balanced nutrition.

If your cat starts eating less, switching to a different flavor, texture, or brand can sometimes rekindle their interest in food. However, always introduce new foods gradually over 7–10 days to prevent digestive upset.

3. Prevent Stress-Related Appetite Loss

Stress is one of the leading causes of appetite loss in cats. Even minor changes in the household can disrupt their eating habits. Managing stress effectively can help maintain a cat’s normal appetite.

How to Reduce Stress for a Cat That Won’t Eat

1. Use pheromone diffusers (e.g., Feliway) to create a calming atmosphere.
2. Provide safe hiding spots where your cat can retreat when overwhelmed.
3. Keep the litter box clean and in a quiet location to prevent anxiety.
4. If you have multiple cats, use separate feeding stations to avoid food competition.
5. Introduce new pets or household changes gradually to avoid overwhelming your cat.

Cats associate negative experiences with food, so reducing stress can help prevent food refusal caused by anxiety.

4. Ensure Proper Hydration to Prevent Dehydration

Many cats don’t drink enough water, which can lead to urinary tract infections, kidney disease, and dehydration. Ensuring your cat stays hydrated can prevent health issues that cause appetite loss.

Ways to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water

1. Use a cat water fountain, as many cats prefer moving water over stagnant bowls.
2. Add water or broth to wet food to increase moisture intake.
3. Offer multiple water bowls throughout the house in easy-to-access locations.
4. Use shallow, wide bowls to prevent whisker fatigue, which can discourage drinking.
5. Try flavored water additives (vet-approved) to make water more appealing.

A properly hydrated cat is more likely to maintain a healthy appetite, reducing the risk of food and water refusal.

5. Regular Veterinary Checkups to Detect Health Issues Early

Routine veterinary visits are essential in preventing serious illnesses that cause appetite loss. Annual or biannual checkups allow for early detection of medical conditions before they lead to food refusal.

Key Vet Exams to Prevent Appetite Loss

1. Oral health exams to prevent dental disease that makes eating painful.
2. Blood tests to check for kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid disorders.
3. Urine analysis to detect dehydration and urinary tract infections.
4. Weight monitoring to identify sudden weight loss or obesity-related eating issues.

If your cat starts eating less frequently or drinking less water, a vet visit can identify potential health problems early before they worsen.

6. Make Mealtime More Engaging for Picky Eaters

Some cats lose interest in food due to boredom or a lack of stimulation. Making mealtime more engaging can encourage eating and prevent food refusal.

Ways to Make Food More Appealing

1. Use interactive feeding toys to make eating a rewarding experience.
2. Try hand-feeding small amounts to build positive associations with food.
3. Serve food at room temperature or slightly warmed to enhance aroma.
4. Experiment with different textures—some cats prefer shredded food, others prefer pâté.
5. Use food toppers (freeze-dried meats, bone broth) to add flavor and nutrients.

Cats often enjoy the experience of hunting for their food, so feeding puzzles can encourage picky eaters to eat more consistently.

7. Adjust Food for Cats With Special Medical Needs

Some cats require special dietary adjustments due to underlying health conditions. Working with a veterinarian to tailor their diet can prevent appetite loss related to medical issues.

Special Diet Considerations for Medical Conditions

Condition	Recommended Diet
Kidney Disease	Low-protein, high-moisture prescription food
Diabetes	High-protein, low-carb diet
Hyperthyroidism	Low-iodine diet
Digestive Issues (IBD, Pancreatitis)	Easily digestible, limited-ingredient diet
Obesity	High-fiber, portion-controlled diet

If your cat has a chronic condition, consulting with a vet about prescription diets or supplements can help prevent food aversion caused by discomfort.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your Cat’s Appetite Healthy

Preventing appetite loss in cats requires a combination of proper nutrition, stress management, hydration, and regular vet checkups. By implementing these long-term strategies, you can help your cat maintain a healthy relationship with food and prevent serious health risks.

Key Takeaways:

1. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule to reduce stress-related food refusal.
2. Choose the right diet based on your cat’s age and health needs.
3. Provide a stress-free feeding environment to prevent anxiety-related appetite loss.
4. Encourage hydration with water fountains and wet food.
5. Schedule regular vet visits to detect and manage underlying health conditions.
6. Use food toppers, warm meals, and feeding puzzles for picky eaters.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cats Not Eating and Their Health

1. When Should I Worry About My Cat Not Eating?

A cat skipping one meal is usually not a cause for concern, but you should worry if:

1. Your cat hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours.
2. They refuse both food and water for more than 12 hours.
3. There are other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, weight loss, or dehydration.
4. Your cat is a kitten, senior, or has a pre-existing health condition.

If appetite loss continues beyond 48 hours, a veterinarian should evaluate the cat for underlying medical issues.

2. How Long Is It Okay for a Cat to Go Without Eating?

Cats should never go without food for more than 24-48 hours. Unlike some animals that can fast safely, cats rely on regular meals to maintain normal liver function. If they go too long without eating, they are at high risk of hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), which can be life-threatening.

Water is even more critical. A cat should not go longer than 12–24 hours without drinking to avoid dehydration, which can lead to organ failure.

3. How Do You Help a Sick Cat That Won't Eat?

If your sick cat refuses to eat, try the following:

1. Warm up their food slightly to make it more aromatic.
2. Hand-feed small portions using a spoon or syringe.
3. Offer strong-smelling foods like tuna juice, bone broth, or chicken baby food.
4. Use food toppers like freeze-dried meat to entice them.
5. Provide a quiet feeding space to reduce stress.
6. Try feeding them from your hand or offering different food textures.

If your cat hasn’t eaten for 24 hours, consult a vet for potential appetite stimulants or assisted feeding.

4. What Happens If a Cat Doesn’t Eat for 3 Days?

A cat that doesn’t eat for 3 days is at serious risk of liver failure and extreme dehydration.

1. The body begins breaking down fat for energy, but cats’ livers are not designed for this.
2. This can cause hepatic lipidosis, which leads to jaundice, weakness, and death if untreated.
3. Dehydration worsens, affecting kidney function and blood circulation.

Immediate veterinary intervention is necessary to prevent organ damage and fatal complications.

5. Can a Cat Recover from Not Eating?

Yes, but early intervention is key. A cat that hasn’t eaten for 1–2 days can usually recover with:

1. Supportive care like syringe feeding, appetite stimulants, and hydration therapy.
2. Veterinary treatment for any underlying illnesses.
3. Nutrient-dense, high-calorie recovery diets to help them regain strength.

If a cat has gone too long without food, they may need hospitalization and IV nutrition to safely recover.

6. How Do You Know When Your Cat’s Body Is Shutting Down?

Cats nearing the end of their life often show these end-of-life signs:

1. Complete loss of appetite and refusal to drink.
2. Weakness, extreme fatigue, and lack of mobility.
3. Labored breathing, shallow or irregular breaths.
4. Disinterest in surroundings and hiding behavior.
5. Low body temperature and cold extremities.
6. Incontinence or loss of bladder control.

If your cat is showing multiple signs, it may be time to discuss palliative care or humane euthanasia with a veterinarian.

7. How to Tell If a Cat Is Suffering?

Cats are experts at hiding pain, but signs of suffering include:

1. Loss of appetite and weight loss.
2. Dull, unkempt coat due to reduced grooming.
3. Frequent hiding or social withdrawal.
4. Restlessness, pacing, or inability to get comfortable.
5. Labored breathing or difficulty walking.
6. Crying, growling, or aggressive behavior when touched.

If a cat is consistently uncomfortable and in pain, talk to a vet about pain management or quality-of-life assessments.

8. What Is the Last Stage in a Cat’s Life Cycle?

The last stage in a cat’s life is senior or geriatric (typically 10+ years old). This stage is marked by:

1. Reduced activity and mobility.
2. Increased need for medical care due to age-related diseases.
3. Changes in eating and sleeping habits.
4. Possible cognitive decline (feline dementia).

Senior cats require special diets, joint support, and regular vet visits to maintain their quality of life.

9. What Is the Most Common Cause of Death in Cats?

The most common causes of death in cats include:

1. Kidney disease (especially in older cats).
2. Cancer, particularly lymphoma.
3. Heart disease and heart failure.
4. Feline infectious diseases (FIV, FeLV).
5. Diabetes complications.

Routine vet visits and early detection can help manage these conditions and prolong a cat’s life.

10. What Is the Silent Killer of Cats?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is often called the “silent killer” of cats because it progresses slowly and without obvious symptoms in the early stages. By the time signs appear, kidney function may already be severely impaired.

Early symptoms include:

1. Increased thirst and urination.
2. Gradual weight loss and reduced appetite.
3. Vomiting or bad breath (ammonia-like smell).

Regular bloodwork and urine tests in senior cats can help detect kidney disease early before it becomes life-threatening.

11. What Are the Signs of Kidney Failure in Cats?

Kidney failure affects 1 in 3 senior cats and can be life-threatening. Symptoms include:

1. Excessive thirst and frequent urination.
2. Loss of appetite and weight loss.
3. Lethargy and weakness.
4. Vomiting and dehydration.
5. Bad breath with a chemical or ammonia-like odor.

Kidney disease cannot be cured, but with early intervention and dietary management, many cats can live for years with proper treatment.