Cat Not Eating — Vet or Wait?

A cat not eating for more than 24 hours is a real concern. Cats can develop dangerous hepatic lipidosis within 2-3 days of not eating.

Go to the vet now

  • Has not eaten for more than 24 hours
  • Refusing both food AND water
  • Hiding more than usual or acting lethargic
  • Yellowing of ears, gums, or whites of eyes
  • Vomiting or diarrhea along with not eating

OK to wait & monitor

  • Just turned nose up at one meal but ate the next
  • Eating less than usual but still eating something each day
  • Temporarily off food after a stressful event
  • Mildly decreased appetite in hot weather

Home care tips

  • 1Try warming wet food to enhance aroma
  • 2Offer a small amount of tuna water or low-sodium chicken broth
  • 3Try a different protein flavor
  • 4Ensure feeding area is quiet, away from litter box
  • 5Check that food is fresh and bowls are clean

When to escalate

Do not wait more than 24 hours if your cat completely stops eating. Cats develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) within 2-3 days of fasting, which can be life-threatening.

Not sure? Check your cat's symptoms

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Check Your Pet's Symptoms