What should I do if my cat isn't eating or drinking? - briefly
If your cat is not eating or drinking, promptly consult with a veterinarian as this could indicate serious health issues such as kidney disease, dental problems, or gastrointestinal obstructions. In the meantime, try offering small amounts of their favorite food and ensure fresh water is always available.
What should I do if my cat isn't eating or drinking? - in detail
If your cat is not eating or drinking, it could indicate a serious health issue that requires immediate attention. Here are steps you can take:
-
Monitor for Other Symptoms: Cats often hide their illnesses, so look for additional signs such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, or changes in urination habits. These could provide clues about the underlying problem.
-
Check for Blockages: If your cat is trying to eat but cannot swallow, it might be due to a blockage caused by hairballs or foreign objects. Look for signs of discomfort or distress while eating.
-
Hydration: Dehydration can set in quickly, especially in cats that are not drinking. Signs include dry gums, loss of skin elasticity, and sunken eyes. You can try offering small amounts of water with a syringe or using a pet water fountain to encourage drinking.
-
Temperature: Feel your cat's body temperature. A low temperature (hypothermia) could indicate that the cat is very ill, while a high temperature (fever) might suggest an infection.
-
Contact Your Vet: If your cat continues to refuse food or water for more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian immediately. Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) if they don't eat for a prolonged period, which can be life-threatening.
-
Emergency Care: If your cat shows severe symptoms such as seizures, difficulty breathing, or unresponsiveness, seek emergency veterinary care right away.
-
Feed a Special Diet: Your vet might recommend a special diet or prescription food to stimulate your cat's appetite and provide necessary nutrients. Do not force-feed your cat unless instructed by a vet, as this can cause aspiration pneumonia.
-
Administer Medications: If prescribed by your vet, administer any medications promptly and follow the dosage instructions carefully.
-
Monitor Progress: Keep a close eye on your cat's condition during treatment. Note any changes in behavior or appetite and report them to your vet.
-
Follow-Up Care: After the initial treatment, ensure you attend all scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor your cat's recovery and adjust treatments as needed.
Remember, cats are adept at hiding illnesses, so even minor changes in eating or drinking habits should be taken seriously. Prompt veterinary care can often prevent more serious health issues from developing.