Finicky Cat Got Your Tongue? 5 Possible Explanations Why Your Feline Isn't Eating
When you can't get your cat to eat, you're at a total loss. A loss for words and a loss for reasons why he could possibly refuse any food you set before him. While it's frustrating, it may not be cause for too much concern. On the other hand, he could have an issue that's turning him off to the meals he usually scoffs down. Either way, you need to put on your pet detective cap and figure this out.
1. Your Cat Is Stressed Out
Any level of stress in your cat's life could cause him to lose interest in food, much the same way you might not want to eat if you were really worried about something. Is there a new animal in the house? Have you moved? Do you have a new significant other? Cats can become stressed for many different reasons, so examine what's going on in his life and offer more coaxing, calming and care. He should come around soon.
2. He's Lost Interest In Whatever You're Feeding
Felines are notorious for suddenly losing interest in a particular brand or type of food, but you shouldn't be too quick to change it up. Instead, offer variety as a habit, keeping a couple different labels in the house, each offering a different flavor. Rotate his menu, to keep his diet interesting and, hopefully, avoid a sudden loss of interest.
3. The Cat's Been Nibbling Too Many Table Scraps
If you or someone else in the cat's life can't resist giving him scraps of ham, tuna and bacon, his appetite could have easily been diverted far away from his store-bought kibbles. Since it's not healthy for a cat to eat from the plates of people, you and others should break this habit. Put his regular chow down, which he should start eating soon enough. If he's stubborn, he'll try to talk you out of a chunk of meatball or the corner slice of roast beef hanging out of your sandwich, but don't give in, for his long-term health and to curb his preference for human foods.
4. There's A Problem With His Teeth
Especially if your feline friend is older, he might have something going on in the dental department. He could have a touch of gingivitis, which would lead to red, puffy, irritated gums and yes, a reduced appetite. The sore gums mean pain when chewing, so he's likely avoiding the activity all together, despite being hungry. Peek in his mouth or smell his breath (a foul odor may indicate gum disease) and if something seems off, call your veterinarian.
5. He's Actually Sick And Not Just Picky
When you've ruled out all other possible reasons for not eating, you may have to face the possibility that a health issue is to blame for your cat's lack of interest in food. Is he going to the litter box on a normal schedule? Are his "deposits" looking any different? Has he lost hair or does any area of his skin seem flaky, itchy or red? The fact that he hasn't been eating is reason enough to request an emergency animal exam, but if there are any other symptoms, get him to the doctor's for a checkup.
It's tough when your cat won't eat and you don't know why. Don't let him go more than a few days without food before contacting a veterinarian. They can help you figure out what's going on and what you should do about it. Visit a site like http://www.emergencypetclinics.com for more help.
