Help! My Cat Won’t Eat: When to Worry and What to Try
It’s a sinking feeling when you fill your cat’s bowl and they just walk away. You try again a few hours later—same result. They sniff, maybe paw at it, then leave it untouched. Now your brain is spinning: Is it the food? Did I do something wrong? Are they sick? Should I panic now or wait till tomorrow?
If you’ve ever watched your normally food-loving cat suddenly lose interest in meals, you know how fast mild concern turns into full-blown anxiety. And since cats are experts at hiding discomfort, it’s not always easy to tell whether they’re just being picky—or if something deeper is going on.
Here’s the thing: cats skipping meals isn’t always an emergency, but it’s rarely something you can ignore either. Even a short break in eating can have consequences. In this post, we’ll break down why cats stop eating, how to know when it’s serious, and what you can actually do to help—starting today.
When Is It a Big Deal If My Cat Stops Eating?
Cats might be picky, but they don’t skip meals for no reason. If your cat hasn’t eaten in 24 hours or more, it’s time to pay attention. Not eating can quickly go from annoying to dangerous.
According to Kingsdale Animal Hospital, cats that stop eating are at risk of developing hepatic lipidosis, also known as fatty liver syndrome—a life-threatening condition most commonly seen in overweight cats. When a cat doesn't eat, their body starts breaking down fat stores for energy. But a cat’s liver isn’t built to process fat in large amounts. The fat accumulates in the liver cells, leading to liver failure if not treated quickly.
Unlike dogs or even humans, cats don’t handle fasting well. Waiting a few days to see if their appetite comes back on its own can actually make things worse.
“If your cat hasn’t eaten anything at all in 24 hours, or is eating much less than usual for a couple of days, contact your veterinarian.”
— Kingsdale Animal Hospital
Signs It Might Be More Than Just Picky Behavior:
- No food intake at all for 24+ hours
- Eating less over several days with noticeable weight loss
- Lethargy or hiding (especially if that’s not normal for them)
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Drooling or pawing at their mouth
- Change in voice (meows become weaker or silent)
- Changes in litter box habits
One of these symptoms on its own might not mean an emergency, but a few together? That’s a vet trip waiting to happen.
Common Reasons Cats Stop Eating
So, let’s say your cat isn’t eating and you’re trying to figure out why. These are some of the most common culprits—some are simple, some serious, but all worth considering.
1. Dental Issues
Cats can’t tell you when their teeth hurt. They’ll often just stop eating, or eat less. If your cat’s avoiding dry kibble but will lick wet food (or broth), that could be a clue. You might also notice:
- Drooling
- Chewing on one side
- Bad breath
- Pawing at the face
A vet can check for infected gums, broken teeth, or abscesses.
2. Stress or Environmental Changes
Cats love routine. Change it, and they might go on hunger strike. New house? New baby? New pet? Even a new couch can throw them off.
They might not show obvious signs of stress, but their appetite is often the first thing to go. Other signs of stress include hiding, aggression, or excessive grooming.
What helps:
- Quiet, safe feeding area
- Sticking to routines
- Calming sprays or pheromone diffusers like Feliway
3. Change in Food or Feeding Style
You’d think your cat would be excited to try that fancy $5-a-can food, right? Not always. Even “upgrades” can lead to rejection.
If you switched food recently, go back to the old one if you still have it. If you added supplements, try removing them to see if that helps.
Texture matters too. Some cats are pate loyalists. Others prefer chunks or gravy. And food that’s too cold straight from the fridge? Forget it.
4. Medical Conditions
A long list of illnesses can cause appetite loss, including:
- Kidney disease
- Pancreatitis
- GI issues
- Hyperthyroidism
- Cancer
- Infections (like upper respiratory viruses)
If your cat is older or has a known medical condition, don’t wait to see if they’ll “snap out of it.” A vet check could catch something early.
5. Reactions to Vaccinations or Medications
Sometimes vaccines or meds can cause mild nausea or fatigue for a day or two. If your cat was recently treated, give them a little time—but keep a close eye on their behavior and hydration.
6. Nausea or Digestive Upset
Cats may avoid food if they’re feeling queasy. You might notice lip licking, swallowing a lot (from nausea), or turning away from food after sniffing it.
Hairballs, constipation, or even just a mild stomach bug could be behind it.
What to Do if Your Cat Refuses Food
You’ve checked the basics. You’re not seeing anything super alarming—but your cat still won’t eat. Here’s what you can try today to get them interested in food again.
🔹 Warm Up the Food
Smell matters. Warming up wet food (to around body temperature) makes it more aromatic. Just a few seconds in the microwave is enough—don’t make it hot.
🔹 Offer a “Smelly Snack”
Some cats will eat tuna, sardines, or rotisserie chicken even when they ignore their regular food. Try offering:
- Tuna in water (no salt)
- Bonito flakes
- Chicken baby food (no garlic/onion)
These aren’t long-term solutions, but they can help spark the appetite. If your cat has food sensitivities or allergies, be extra careful with these. For more on safe go-to snacks and limited-ingredient options, check out our guide on must-have products for cats with food sensitivities.
🔹 Switch Textures or Flavors
If they always eat pate, try a chunky or shredded style. Try switching proteins too—some cats develop food fatigue with chicken and do better with duck or salmon.
🔹 Try Hand-Feeding
Use a spoon or your fingers to offer food. It sounds silly, but the personal interaction sometimes helps.
🔹 Minimize Stress Around Meals
Feed in a quiet, familiar spot. Don’t hover. Avoid feeding next to noisy appliances, other pets, or the litter box.
When to Call the Vet (Don’t Wait Too Long)
If your cat’s still not eating after trying the above, don’t guess. Call your vet if:
- They haven’t eaten in 24 hours
- They’re vomiting or have diarrhea
- They’re visibly uncomfortable or hiding
- They’re older or have a known health issue
Even if you think it might be “just picky eating,” it’s worth getting checked. Many conditions are treatable if caught early. And if nothing’s wrong, you’ll have peace of mind.
What to Expect at the Vet
A vet will likely start with a physical exam and some basic blood work. They’ll check the teeth, gums, abdomen, and temperature. Depending on what they find, they may recommend:
- Blood tests (to check organs)
- X-rays or ultrasound
- Dental work
- Appetite stimulants
- Subcutaneous fluids (if dehydrated)
Most vets are familiar with this issue—it’s one of the most common concerns they hear about from cat owners.
Prevention: How to Keep Your Cat Eating Regularly
You can’t prevent everything, but these habits can help:
- Stick to a routine – same time, same spot, same bowl.
- Mix in wet food regularly – keeps them hydrated and used to a variety.
- Keep up with vet visits – especially for older cats.
- Monitor weight – sudden changes usually mean something’s off.
- Brush their teeth or use dental treats to avoid hidden pain.
Quick FAQ
Q: My cat only eats treats. Is that okay?
Not really. Treats lack complete nutrition. It’s okay as a short-term trick to get them eating again, but not a diet.
Q: Can cats skip meals like dogs?
No. Cats can’t go without food for long. Their bodies aren’t built for fasting.
Q: Should I try force-feeding?
Not unless a vet tells you to. You could cause more stress or even injury. Appetite stimulants or assisted feeding should only be used under guidance.
Final Thoughts
When your cat won’t eat, it’s not just frustrating—it’s scary. But you’re not powerless. Whether it’s a bad batch of food, stress from a new pet, or something more serious, you now know what to watch for and what steps to take.
Bottom line? Don’t wait more than a day if your cat still won’t eat. Offer their favorites, keep things calm, and call your vet if you’re unsure. You’re not overreacting—you’re doing what a good cat parent does.