Why Is My Cat Not Eating?

Common Causes of Loss of Appetite in Cats

A loss of appetite in cats is often one of the first signs that something may be wrong. Cats are naturally good at hiding illness, so when a cat stops eating or eats significantly less than usual, it should always be taken seriously.

Veterinarians refer to loss of appetite as anorexia (complete loss of appetite) or hyporexia (reduced appetite). Many medical, behavioural, or environmental factors can cause a cat to stop eating.

Because cats rely on regular food intake to maintain normal metabolism, a cat that refuses food for more than 24–48 hours should be examined by a veterinarian.

A sad-looking cat appears unwell and uninterested in eating, standing alone on a rough surface. Hilltop/ Cat Health/ Not eating

How Long Can a Cat Go Without Eating?

Cats should not go long without food. If a cat stops eating for several days, they may develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a serious condition that occurs when the body rapidly mobilises fat stores due to inadequate calorie intake.

This condition is particularly common in overweight cats that suddenly stop eating and often requires intensive veterinary treatment.

For this reason, persistent appetite loss should always be investigated.

Common Reasons Cats Stop Eating

There are many possible causes for reduced appetite in cats.

Illness or Pain

Many medical conditions can reduce a cat’s appetite, including:

• infections

• kidney disease

• liver disease

• gastrointestinal problems

• pancreatitis

• cancer

• 
  

Pain can also suppress appetite. Cats experiencing pain from injuries, arthritis, or internal disease may avoid eating.

Dental Disease

Dental problems are one of the most common reasons cats stop eating.

Conditions such as:

• gingivitis

• tooth fractures

• resorptive lesions

• severe tartar buildup can make eating painful.

Some cats with dental pain may approach food but then walk away after attempting to eat.

A close-up view of a cat's mouth shows signs of dental disease, including red and inflamed gums, highlighting the importance of regular veterinary check-ups for maintaining feline oral health. Hilltop / Cat Health/ Dental Disease

Gastrointestinal Problems

Diseases affecting the stomach or intestines can also cause appetite loss.

Examples include:

• inflammatory bowel disease

• intestinal parasites

• food intolerance

• stomach inflammation

Cats with gastrointestinal disease may also show symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss.

Stress or Environmental Changes

Cats are sensitive to changes in their environment.

Common stress triggers include:

• moving house

• new pets

• visitors or household changes

• changes in routine

• new food

Stress can temporarily reduce appetite in some cats.

Food Problems

Sometimes the issue may be related to the food itself.

Possible causes include:

• sudden diet changes

• spoiled food

• food that has become stale

• dislike of a new diet

Cats are known for their strong food preferences, and abrupt diet changes may cause them to refuse meals.

Signs That Loss of Appetite May Be Serious

If your cat stops eating, it is important to watch for other symptoms.

Signs that should prompt veterinary attention include:

• vomiting

• diarrhea

• weight loss

• lethargy

• hiding behaviour

• drooling

• difficulty chewing

• swelling or wounds

These signs may indicate an underlying medical problem.

How Veterinarians Diagnose Appetite Loss

If a cat is not eating, your veterinarian will begin with a thorough examination.

Depending on the findings, diagnostic tests may include:

• blood tests

• urine tests

• abdominal ultrasound

• X-rays

• dental examination

These tests help identify underlying medical problems affecting appetite.

When Should You See a Vet?

You should contact your veterinarian if your cat:

• has not eaten for 24 hours or longer

• eats significantly less than usual

• shows signs of illness or pain

• is losing weight

• appears lethargic or withdrawn

Early veterinary evaluation helps identify problems before they become more serious.

Helping Your Cat Maintain a Healthy Appetite

Healthy cats usually eat regularly and maintain stable body weight.

To support good appetite and health:

• feed a consistent diet

• provide a calm feeding environment

• avoid sudden food changes

• monitor eating habits closely

Any noticeable change in eating behaviour should be monitored carefully.

Cat Health Care in Kalamunda

If your cat has stopped eating or is showing signs of illness, the team at Hilltop Veterinary Hospital in Kalamunda can examine your cat and determine the cause of the problem.

Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to better outcomes.

Concerned About Your Cat’s Appetite?

If your cat is eating less than normal or refusing food, book a consultation with Hilltop Veterinary Hospital so our veterinary team can assess your cat and recommend appropriate care.

Explore More Pet Health Advice

For more veterinary guidance on common health concerns, explore our Pet Health Advice library, where we cover topics including infections, parasites, preventative care, and early signs of illness in dogs, cats, birds, and exotic pets.

You can also browse our Cat Health Care guides for more information about common feline medical conditions.

The information provided in this article is intended for general educational purposes only and should not replace professional veterinary advice. Every pet is unique, and medical conditions can vary between animals. If your pet is showing signs of illness or behavioural changes, please consult your veterinarian for a proper examination and personalised advice.