Instruction: what to do if a cat has stopped eating its favorite wet food.

Introduction

Reasons for a Cat's Loss of Appetite

1. Medical Issues

When a cat suddenly refuses its usual canned diet, the change often signals an underlying health problem.

Common medical reasons include:

Dental pain from gingivitis, broken teeth, or oral ulcers.
Gastrointestinal upset such as nausea, constipation, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Kidney or liver dysfunction that alters taste perception or induces appetite loss.
Respiratory infections that diminish the sense of smell, reducing interest in food.
Metabolic disorders like hyperthyroidism or diabetes, which can cause irregular hunger patterns.

A thorough physical examination is the first step. Check the mouth for swelling, discoloration, or loose teeth; palpate the abdomen for pain or organ enlargement; and assess hydration status. Laboratory tests-complete blood count, serum chemistry, and urinalysis-help identify organ dysfunction or metabolic imbalances. Imaging studies, such as abdominal ultrasound, may be necessary if gastrointestinal disease is suspected.

If any abnormality is detected, initiate appropriate treatment promptly: dental cleaning or extraction for oral disease; anti‑emetic or gastroprotective medication for stomach issues; fluid therapy and dietary adjustments for renal or hepatic impairment; antibiotics for infections; and hormone‑regulating drugs for endocrine disorders.

If the cat appears otherwise healthy but continues to reject wet food, schedule a veterinary appointment without delay. Early intervention prevents progression of hidden illnesses and restores normal eating behavior.

2. Environmental Factors

When a feline declines its usual pâté, the surrounding environment often contributes more than the food itself. Temperature fluctuations can diminish appetite; a kitchen that is too warm may cause the wet meal to lose its appealing texture, while a chilly room can make the cat less inclined to eat. Ensure the feeding area maintains a stable, moderate temperature, ideally between 68‑72 °F (20‑22 °C).

Odors compete with the scent of the food. Strong aromas from cleaning agents, cooking, or nearby litter boxes can overwhelm the cat’s sensitive nose, making the wet portion less attractive. Keep the feeding spot away from sources of strong smells, and ventilate the area to reduce lingering fumes.

Noise levels influence stress and eating behavior. Loud appliances, television, or frequent foot traffic may deter a cat from approaching its bowl. Provide a quiet corner where the cat can eat undisturbed, preferably on a stable surface that does not vibrate.

Lighting conditions affect visual cues that signal freshness. Bright, direct light can cause the wet meal to dry out faster, while dim lighting may hide spoilage. Feed the cat under gentle, indirect illumination and serve the portion promptly after opening the can.

Surface cleanliness matters. A dirty feeding mat or bowl residue can introduce unwanted textures or tastes. Use stainless steel or glazed ceramic dishes, wash them after each use, and replace any worn surfaces.

Consider the placement of the bowl relative to the cat’s litter box and sleeping area. Proximity to waste or resting spots can create an association between eating and undesirable locations. Position the dish several feet away from the litter box and away from the cat’s primary sleeping zone.

By controlling temperature, odor, noise, lighting, surface hygiene, and bowl placement, owners can eliminate environmental barriers that often cause a cat to reject its favorite canned food. Adjusting these variables typically restores normal feeding patterns without altering the diet itself.

3. Food-Related Problems

When a cat refuses its usual pâté, the first step is to verify that the food itself remains safe. Check the expiration date, inspect the can for dents or swelling, and ensure the product has been stored at the proper temperature. If any of these indicators suggest spoilage, discard the food and replace it with a fresh batch.

Next, evaluate the cat’s health. Loss of appetite can signal dental discomfort, gastrointestinal upset, or systemic illness. Conduct a quick oral examination for swollen gums, broken teeth, or visible lesions. If the cat shows signs of vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss, schedule a veterinary appointment promptly.

Environmental factors also influence feeding behavior. Cats are sensitive to changes in routine, location, and bowl type. Ensure the feeding area is quiet, away from high‑traffic zones, and that the bowl is clean and made of stainless steel or ceramic rather than plastic, which can retain odors.

If the food passes safety and health checks, consider modifying its presentation:

Warm the wet food slightly (to 30‑35 °C) to enhance aroma.
Add a small amount of low‑salt broth or water to improve texture.
Mix a spoonful of a high‑protein treat to entice the cat.
Offer the food in a shallow dish to reduce the effort required to lap.

Monitor the cat’s response for 24‑48 hours. Persistent refusal despite these adjustments warrants a follow‑up with a veterinarian to rule out underlying pathology and to discuss alternative diets or supplemental feeding methods.

4. Behavioral Changes

A cat that suddenly rejects its preferred pâté often signals a shift in behavior that warrants close observation. Recognizing these alterations helps differentiate a temporary preference change from an underlying health problem.

Decreased activity: the animal spends more time resting, avoids play, or shows reluctance to jump onto favored perches.
Altered social interaction: increased avoidance of people, hiding in secluded spots, or unexpected aggression toward familiar household members.
Changes in grooming: excessive licking of a single area, neglect of overall coat care, or frantic scratching.
Vocalization spikes: frequent meowing, yowling, or plaintive cries, especially during feeding times.
Litter box irregularities: urinating or defecating outside the box, straining, or producing unusually small or large stools.

These patterns often stem from pain, dental disease, gastrointestinal upset, stress from environmental changes, or sensory decline. Painful mouth conditions may make the texture of wet food uncomfortable, prompting avoidance and subsequent irritability. Stressors such as new pets, altered routines, or loud noises can trigger anxiety, manifesting as withdrawal or heightened vocal demands.

Immediate actions include:

Document the frequency and context of each behavioral cue.
Offer a bland, low‑fat alternative (e.g., plain chicken broth) to assess appetite.
Ensure fresh water is always available and monitor hydration status.
Schedule a veterinary examination to rule out dental pathology, infection, or metabolic disorders.

After veterinary clearance, consider environmental enrichment-interactive toys, consistent feeding schedule, and a quiet feeding area-to reduce stress and encourage normal eating behavior. Continuous monitoring of the listed behavioral signs will indicate whether the cat returns to baseline or requires further intervention.

Initial Steps to Take

1. Observe and Document

1.1. Check for Other Symptoms

When a cat refuses its preferred pâté, the first step is to assess the animal’s overall condition. A loss of appetite rarely occurs in isolation; accompanying signs often point to an underlying problem that requires prompt attention.

Lethargy or reduced activity levels
Rapid or labored breathing
Vomiting, regurgitation, or frequent gagging
Diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool consistency
Excessive drinking or urination
Weight loss detectable on a scale or by palpating the ribs
Oral issues such as drooling, pawing at the mouth, swollen gums, or broken teeth
Behavioral changes, including hiding, aggression, or increased vocalization
Fever, identified by a warm nose, ears, or paws, or confirmed with a rectal thermometer

Document any observed symptoms and note their duration. If more than one sign appears, or if any symptom is severe (e.g., persistent vomiting, difficulty breathing, or marked lethargy), contact a veterinarian without delay. Even subtle cues-such as a slight change in grooming habits or a minor decrease in water intake-can be early indicators of dental disease, gastrointestinal upset, or systemic illness. Early detection through thorough symptom checking improves the likelihood of successful treatment and restores the cat’s willingness to eat its favorite wet food.

1.2. Note Eating Habits

When a cat refuses its preferred pâté, the first professional step is to record the animal’s recent feeding pattern. Detailed notes create a baseline that distinguishes a temporary aversion from an emerging health issue.

Types of wet food offered (brand, flavor, texture) and the exact serving size.
Time of each feeding attempt and the cat’s response (complete consumption, partial intake, refusal).
Presence of any concurrent changes: new diet, environmental stressors, medication, or alterations in water availability.
Observable signs of discomfort: vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight fluctuation, or changes in litter box habits.

Analyzing this data reveals trends. Consistent refusal of a single flavor suggests palatability loss, while a broader decline across multiple products may indicate dental pain, gastrointestinal upset, or systemic disease. Correlate feeding logs with veterinary examinations to confirm or rule out medical causes.

Maintain the log in a readily accessible format-digital spreadsheet or paper notebook-and update it daily until the cat resumes normal intake or a professional diagnosis is reached. This systematic approach streamlines decision‑making and reduces trial‑and‑error when reintroducing wet food or selecting alternatives.

2. Assess the Food

2.1. Verify Freshness

When a cat declines its regular wet food, the first step is to confirm that the product is still fresh. Freshness directly affects palatability and safety; even a subtle decline can cause a cat to reject a meal.

Check the expiration or “use‑by” date printed on the can or pouch. Discard any product that has passed this date.
Examine the seal. A bulging lid, broken seal, or any signs of damage indicate possible contamination.
Assess the appearance. The sauce or gravy should be uniform, without discoloration, separation, or visible mold.
Smell the food. A sour or off odor signals bacterial growth; fresh wet food has a mild, meaty scent.
Note the time since opening. Once opened, most manufacturers recommend refrigeration and consumption within 24-48 hours. If the food has been stored longer, discard it.
Verify storage conditions. Keep unopened cans at room temperature, away from direct sunlight; after opening, refrigerate at 4 °C (39 °F) and cover tightly.

If any of these checks reveal a problem, replace the food with a new, properly stored batch before attempting further troubleshooting.

2.2. Consider Storage

When a cat suddenly rejects its regular wet meals, the condition of the food often plays a decisive role. Improper storage can cause texture changes, off‑odors, and bacterial growth that make the product unappealing or unsafe. Evaluating how the food is kept is therefore essential before pursuing medical or behavioral interventions.

Key storage considerations include:

Temperature control - Keep unopened cans at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Once opened, refrigerate the portion promptly; most wet foods remain safe for 24-48 hours when stored at 4 °C.
Container sealing - Transfer leftovers to an airtight container to limit exposure to air and moisture, which accelerate oxidation and spoilage.
Portion sizing - Serve only the amount the cat is likely to finish in one sitting. Smaller portions reduce the time food spends in the refrigerator, preserving flavor and aroma.
Expiration monitoring - Verify the use‑by date on each can. Even if the can appears intact, products past their date may develop off‑flavors that deter eating.
Avoid cross‑contamination - Use clean utensils for each serving. Introducing foreign bacteria from other foods or surfaces can compromise the wet food’s integrity.

If the cat continues to refuse the same brand after confirming proper storage, consider rotating to a freshly opened batch or a different formulation. Maintaining optimal storage conditions maximizes palatability and reduces the risk that the cat’s refusal stems from degraded food quality.

Addressing Potential Issues

1. Ruling Out Medical Conditions

1.1. Schedule a Vet Visit

When a cat abruptly rejects its regular wet food, the first professional response should be a veterinary appointment. Prompt evaluation prevents minor issues from escalating into serious health problems.

Arrange the visit as soon as the change is observed, ideally within 24-48 hours. Early consultation is critical because loss of appetite can signal dental pain, gastrointestinal upset, metabolic disorders, or systemic illness. Delays increase the risk of dehydration and hepatic lipidosis, especially in overweight or older felines.

Before calling the clinic, gather essential details:

Duration of reduced intake (hours, days)
Any vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
Recent changes in diet, environment, or stressors
Current medications, supplements, and vaccination status
Weight fluctuations or visible weight loss

Communicate this information to the receptionist or veterinary nurse. Request an urgent slot and specify that the cat has stopped eating its preferred wet food, emphasizing the rapid onset.

During the appointment, the veterinarian will likely:

Perform a physical examination, checking oral cavity, hydration, and abdominal tenderness.
Order baseline blood work (CBC, chemistry panel) to assess organ function and rule out infection or metabolic disease.
Conduct a urinalysis if kidney involvement is suspected.
Possibly request imaging (ultrasound or X‑ray) to evaluate gastrointestinal structures.

Ask the clinician about immediate supportive measures, such as appetite stimulants, syringe feeding, or temporary diet changes, to maintain caloric intake while diagnostics proceed.

After the visit, follow the prescribed treatment plan precisely, monitor food consumption, and report any further decline without delay. Regular follow‑up appointments may be required to track recovery and adjust therapy.

1.2. Discuss Recent Changes

Recent industry revisions have altered the composition of many premium wet foods. Manufacturers now incorporate alternative protein sources such as duck or rabbit to address rising demand for novel diets, and they adjust moisture levels to improve shelf stability. These changes can affect a cat’s acceptance of a previously preferred product.

Veterinary guidelines released in the past two years emphasize regular oral examinations. Data indicate that early-stage dental disease frequently reduces interest in soft foods, prompting clinicians to recommend routine dental prophylaxis alongside dietary adjustments.

Nutritional research published since 2022 highlights the impact of added functional ingredients. Prebiotic fibers and omega‑3 fatty acids have been shown to enhance palatability while supporting gastrointestinal health, prompting several brands to reformulate their recipes accordingly.

Regulatory updates in several regions now require clearer labeling of artificial additives. Consumers receive more transparent information about flavor enhancers and preservatives, allowing owners to make more informed choices when a cat rejects a familiar wet food.

Key observations for owners confronting decreased intake:

Verify recent formulation changes on the packaging label.
Schedule a dental check‑up to rule out oral discomfort.
Consider transitioning to a product with added functional ingredients.
Review label disclosures for potential allergens or additives that may have been introduced.
Consult a veterinarian to assess underlying health conditions such as renal insufficiency or gastrointestinal upset.

2. Modifying the Environment

2.1. Reduce Stress

A cat that suddenly refuses its preferred pâté often reacts to environmental pressures. Reducing stress creates conditions that encourage normal feeding behavior.

Identify sources of anxiety. Common triggers include loud noises, unfamiliar visitors, sudden changes in household layout, and the presence of other pets. Eliminate or mitigate these factors whenever possible. For example, keep the feeding area quiet, separate from high‑traffic zones, and away from litter boxes or water dishes.

Maintain a consistent schedule. Feed at the same times each day, using the same bowl and location. Predictability lowers cortisol levels and signals safety to the animal.

Provide a calm environment during meals. Turn off televisions and music, close doors to noisy rooms, and limit human traffic around the feeding spot. If the cat feels threatened, it may hide or avoid food.

Introduce enrichment gradually. Offer low‑intensity toys or puzzle feeders that stimulate mental activity without overwhelming the cat. This helps redirect nervous energy and restores a positive association with the feeding area.

Monitor health indicators. If stress‑reduction measures fail to restore appetite within 24-48 hours, seek veterinary evaluation to rule out underlying medical issues.

2.2. Optimize Feeding Area

Optimizing the feeding environment can restore a cat’s interest in its preferred wet food. A calm, predictable area reduces stress and encourages regular consumption.

Choose a quiet corner away from high‑traffic zones, litter boxes, and water dishes. Cats associate feeding with solitude; constant movement nearby can deter them.
Use a stable, non‑slipping mat or tray beneath the bowl. Prevents the dish from sliding, which can startle the animal and interrupt eating.
Select a shallow, wide‑rimmed ceramic or stainless‑steel dish. Shallow depth facilitates easy access, while metal surfaces do not retain odors that might repel the cat.
Maintain a consistent temperature for the food. Serve wet food at room temperature or slightly warmed (around 30 °C) to enhance aroma; avoid cold portions straight from the refrigerator.
Keep the feeding spot free of strong scents, cleaning agents, or food remnants. Residual smells can create aversion.
Position the bowl at a comfortable height relative to the cat’s size. A low placement allows natural posture; an elevated stand benefits older cats with joint issues.
Establish a regular feeding schedule. Offer the meal at the same times each day; predictability reinforces appetite.

By controlling lighting, eliminating distractions, and providing appropriate dishware, the feeding area becomes a safe, inviting space. This environmental refinement often resolves reluctance to eat wet food without resorting to medical interventions.

3. Adjusting the Food

3.1. Warm the Food

As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I recommend warming the cat’s wet food to restore its aromatic appeal. Heat releases volatile compounds that attract the feline’s sense of smell, often the decisive factor when a previously favored diet is rejected.

Place the sealed pouch or can in a bowl of warm water for 30-60 seconds; avoid microwaving directly, which can create hot spots.
Stir the contents gently to distribute temperature evenly.
Test the surface with a fingertip; the food should feel slightly above room temperature, roughly 100-105 °F (38-40 °C).
Serve immediately, discarding any leftovers after 20 minutes to prevent bacterial growth.

Do not exceed the recommended temperature, as overheating can degrade nutrients and cause oral burns. If warming fails to stimulate interest, consider evaluating texture, freshness, and possible health issues before proceeding to alternative interventions.

3.2. Add Toppers

When a feline refuses its usual pâté, enriching the meal with appropriate toppers can stimulate appetite and restore interest. Choose toppings that complement the wet food’s texture and flavor while providing nutritional benefits.

Warm broth - Heat low‑sodium chicken or turkey broth to body temperature and drizzle a tablespoon over the kibble. The aroma intensifies, and the added moisture eases swallowing.
Finely shredded meat - Add a small amount of cooked, unseasoned chicken, turkey, or rabbit. The distinct texture contrasts with the soft pâté, encouraging the cat to investigate the dish.
Pureed vegetables - Incorporate a teaspoon of pureed pumpkin or sweet potato. The subtle sweetness and fiber support digestion without overwhelming the palate.
Cat‑safe cheese - Sprinkle a pinch of low‑lactose cheese such as mozzarella. The salty note can reignite curiosity, but limit to avoid excess fat.
Fish oil droplets - Add a few drops of omega‑3 enriched fish oil. The glossy finish and fishy scent are highly attractive to many cats.

Apply only one or two toppers at a time to monitor tolerance and preference. If the cat resumes eating within a few meals, maintain the chosen combination; otherwise, rotate alternatives until a favorable response emerges. Consistency in feeding schedule and a calm environment remain essential throughout the adjustment period.

3.3. Experiment with Textures

As a veterinary nutritionist, I advise owners whose cats refuse their usual pâté to modify the food’s physical properties. Changing texture can re‑stimulate interest, address oral discomfort, and break the monotony that sometimes leads to refusal.

Offer a smooth, mousse‑like consistency if the cat shows aversion to chunks; blend wet food with a small amount of warm water or low‑sodium broth, then puree until no discernible particles remain.
Introduce a semi‑solid gel by mixing wet food with a teaspoon of plain gelatin dissolved in warm water; the resulting wobble mimics jellyfish movement, which many felines find intriguing.
Provide a finely shredded version by pulling the food through a fine grater; the increased surface area releases aroma more rapidly, encouraging sniffing and sampling.
Combine the original wet formula with a thin layer of pressed pâté, creating a dual‑texture bite that alternates between creamy and firmer sections, which can entice cats that enjoy contrast.

When testing new textures, present only a small portion at first to gauge acceptance. Observe for signs of dental pain or gastrointestinal upset; discontinue any texture that triggers discomfort. Rotate the successful texture every few days to maintain novelty without overwhelming the cat’s palate. Consistent monitoring and gradual adjustments usually restore regular intake within a week.

3.4. Offer Novel Flavors

When a cat abandons its regular wet food, introducing new taste profiles can reignite interest and restore regular intake. Novel flavors should be selected based on nutritional completeness, palatability, and the cat’s known preferences.

Rotate protein sources: substitute chicken or fish with turkey, rabbit, or duck to provide a distinct aroma and texture.
Incorporate gentle herbs or broth: a splash of low‑sodium chicken broth or a pinch of cat‑safe catnip can enhance scent without compromising diet.
Experiment with texture variations: blend pâté with shredded or gravy‑based formulas to offer both smooth and fibrous mouthfeel.
Use limited‑ingredient recipes: for cats with sensitivities, a single‑protein, grain‑free option reduces the risk of adverse reactions while delivering novelty.
Offer small trial portions: present 1-2 oz of the new product alongside the familiar brand to encourage sampling without overwhelming the animal.

Monitor the cat’s response for at least 48 hours. If consumption increases, gradually integrate the new flavor into the regular feeding schedule, maintaining a balanced diet. Should the cat reject the offering, revisit other strategies such as warming the food or adjusting feeding routines.

When to Seek Veterinary Help

1. Persistent Anorexia

Persistent anorexia in a cat that no longer accepts its preferred wet food signals a medical problem that requires systematic evaluation. The condition may arise from dental disease, gastrointestinal upset, systemic illness, stress, or a sudden change in diet composition. Because cats can develop life‑threatening hepatic lipidosis after just a few days without adequate intake, swift intervention is essential.

First, perform a physical examination to identify obvious pain points, oral lesions, or abnormal body condition. Record weight, temperature, heart and respiratory rates, and note any vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in water consumption.

Next, obtain a basic laboratory panel: complete blood count, serum chemistry, and urinalysis. These tests reveal infections, kidney or liver dysfunction, hyperthyroidism, and electrolyte imbalances that can suppress appetite. If initial results are inconclusive, advanced imaging (ultrasound or radiography) and specific hormone assays may be warranted.

While diagnostics proceed, maintain caloric intake through the following measures:

Offer a variety of textures (pâté, shredded, mousse) at room temperature to stimulate interest.
Warm the food slightly to enhance aroma.
Add a small amount of low‑sodium broth or a commercial appetite stimulant (e.g., mirtazapine) as prescribed.
Provide a syringe‑fed or nasogastric diet if voluntary intake remains below 50 % of daily requirement for 24 hours.
Monitor blood glucose and hydration status every 4-6 hours.

If the cat tolerates supplemental feeding, gradually reintroduce the original wet formula, mixing it with the chosen enhancer to transition smoothly. Maintain a consistent feeding schedule, limit treats, and eliminate stressors such as sudden environmental changes or new pets.

Re‑evaluate weight and laboratory values daily for the first 72 hours. Persistent refusal beyond this window, progressive weight loss, or worsening clinical signs mandates immediate veterinary referral for possible hospitalization, intravenous fluids, and intensive nutritional support.

Document all observations, interventions, and response patterns. A detailed record assists the veterinarian in tailoring therapy and assessing the risk of relapse once normal feeding resumes.

2. Accompanying Symptoms

When a cat abandons its preferred pâté, the loss of appetite often signals an underlying problem. Careful observation of additional signs can differentiate a temporary preference shift from a medical emergency.

Lethargy or reduced activity
Vomiting or regurgitation after meals
Diarrhea, loose stools, or blood in feces
Excessive thirst or urination
Weight loss evident on the scale or by palpating the ribs
Dental discomfort: pawing at the mouth, drooling, or rejecting hard textures
Nasal discharge, sneezing, or coughing
Changes in behavior: hiding, aggression, or sudden clinginess

Each symptom narrows the possible causes. Lethargy combined with vomiting often points to gastrointestinal upset, pancreatitis, or systemic infection. Diarrhea and blood suggest intestinal inflammation, parasites, or foreign body obstruction. Increased drinking and urination may indicate renal disease or diabetes mellitus. Dental pain can make moist food unappealing despite its texture. Respiratory signs could accompany a viral or bacterial infection that reduces the desire to eat.

The appropriate response depends on the pattern of findings. If any of the listed signs appear, schedule a veterinary examination promptly; delayed treatment can worsen prognosis. Record the duration, frequency, and severity of each symptom before the visit to aid diagnostic accuracy. In the absence of concerning signs, monitor the cat for 24‑48 hours while offering alternative textures, warming the food slightly, or adding a small amount of low‑sodium broth to stimulate interest. Persistent refusal beyond this window warrants professional assessment to rule out hidden pathology.

3. Rapid Weight Loss

A sudden decline in a cat’s intake of preferred canned food can trigger rapid weight loss, which may quickly become life‑threatening. As a veterinary nutrition specialist, I emphasize immediate assessment and intervention.

First, confirm the extent of weight loss. Weigh the cat and compare the result with its ideal body condition score. A loss of more than 5 % of body weight within a week warrants urgent veterinary evaluation.

Next, identify underlying causes. Conduct a thorough physical exam, complete blood panel, and urinalysis to rule out dental disease, gastrointestinal obstruction, renal insufficiency, hyperthyroidism, or systemic infection. Imaging (radiographs or ultrasound) may be required if an internal abnormality is suspected.

While diagnostics proceed, stabilize caloric intake:

Offer a highly palatable, calorie‑dense diet such as a prescription recovery formula or a warmed, low‑fat chicken broth mixed with a small amount of canned food.
Feed small, frequent meals (4-6 times daily) using syringe or feeding tube if the cat refuses to eat voluntarily.
Supplement with a balanced oral electrolyte solution to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

Monitor progress closely. Record daily weight and food consumption. If the cat fails to gain at least 1 % of body weight over 48 hours, initiate assisted feeding (esophageal tube or percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy) under veterinary supervision.

Finally, address the original food preference. Gradually reintroduce the favored wet food by mixing it with the recovery diet, increasing the proportion over several days. Ensure the feeding environment is quiet, stress‑free, and free from competition with other pets.

Rapid weight loss in a cat that has stopped eating its favorite wet food is a medical emergency. Prompt diagnostics, aggressive nutritional support, and careful monitoring are essential to prevent irreversible decline.