Top 5 Reasons for Cats' Loss of Appetite Explained

Understanding Why Your Cat Isn't Eating

One: Mood Swings Can Lead to a Lack of Appetite in Cats

Cats are highly sensitive to their owners' emotions. When there's a change in the household, such as a new pet or a family member moving out, they might feel neglected and express their discontent through a decreased appetite. Additionally, if they are scolded by their human, they can become quite upset, experiencing a mix of fear and hurt, which can suppress their desire to eat.

Two: Food Quality and Feeding Practices Can Affect Appetite

While cats are known for their love of food, they also have preferences. If their food is not fresh, they might become picky and refuse to eat. It's not uncommon for cat owners to overfeed by leaving a large amount of food out for their pets to graze on throughout the day. This can be harmful to their digestive system and can lead to stale food, which can turn them off their meals. Cats, like puppies, typically do well with one to two meals a day. Overfeeding can lead to both health issues and a loss of appetite.

Three: Seasonal Changes and Environmental Factors

Many attentive cat owners notice that their feline friends may lose their appetite during seasonal transitions. This is a normal and common occurrence, and owners can offer a variety of foods to entice their cats. This phase doesn't last long, and soon enough, they'll adjust to the new season.

Four: Estrus Can Impact Appetite

Cats go through estrus, or heat, for about two months each year. During this time, they can become extremely anxious, which can lead to a decrease in appetite.

Five: Illness Can Be the Culprit

There are numerous reasons why a cat might not be eating, but one of the most concerning for owners is illness. Just like humans, cats may not feel like eating when they're not feeling well. They might also exhibit signs of distress, such as vomiting. If you notice your cat is throwing up or has lost their appetite, it's a sign to take them to the vet immediately. It could indicate that they're not well.

Important Tip: Click How Long Can a Cat Go Without Eating to learn more about your cat's eating habits and what they might mean.