My cat won't eat or drink, how long will it live? - briefly
If your cat has stopped eating and drinking, immediate veterinary care is crucial. The duration of survival can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause, but without treatment, cats typically do not survive more than a few days.
My cat won't eat or drink, how long will it live? - in detail
When a cat stops eating and drinking, it is a serious concern that requires immediate attention. The duration for which a cat can survive without food and water depends on several factors, including the cat's overall health, age, and the underlying cause of its refusal to eat or drink.
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means their bodies are designed to process meat-based diets efficiently. A healthy adult cat can typically survive for 3 to 5 days without food, provided it has access to water. However, if a cat is not drinking either, the survival time significantly decreases. In most cases, cats can only go without water for 24 to 72 hours before experiencing severe dehydration and potential organ failure.
It's crucial to understand that while some cats may temporarily stop eating due to stress or minor illnesses, prolonged refusal of food and water often indicates a more serious health issue. Common causes include dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, kidney disease, or even cancer. Some cats may also develop hepatic lipidosis, a liver condition that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
If your cat has stopped eating and drinking, it is essential to seek veterinary care immediately. The vet will perform a thorough examination to identify the underlying cause of the problem. Treatment may involve rehydration through intravenous fluids, addressing any dental or gastrointestinal issues, managing chronic conditions like kidney disease, or providing supportive care for more serious illnesses.
In some cases, cats may need to be fed through a syringe or tube feeding to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition while their appetite returns. The vet will also monitor the cat's condition closely and adjust treatment as needed.
Early intervention is key to improving the chances of recovery. While it can be challenging to predict exactly how long a cat will live without eating or drinking, prompt veterinary care significantly increases the likelihood of a positive outcome.