Is Your Cat's Picky Eating Causing Lack of Appetite?

Part 1: The Difference Between Picky Eating and Anorexia in Cats

Cats can be quite picky when it comes to their meals, and this behavior is often a result of overindulgence in various treats and snacks by their caregivers. This can lead to a preference for strongly flavored and tasty foods. While a picky eater may not be keen on eating for a short period, they typically resume their meals within 24 hours and maintain their usual energetic demeanor, running and jumping around as usual.

On the other hand, anorexia in cats is usually associated with illness. Conditions such as inflammation, nasal congestion, or severe abdominal pain can trigger anorexia. During this period, the cat's spirit may also be affected, and they may exhibit other abnormal symptoms.

Part 2: How to Deal with Picky Eating in Cats

1. Regular Feeding Schedule: Maintain a consistent feeding routine of 23 meals a day. Avoid excessive snacking to prevent the cat from feeling full and losing interest in their regular food.

2. Play Before Feeding: Spend some playtime with your cat before mealtime to stimulate their appetite and encourage digestion.

3. Control Portion Sizes: Don't overfeed your cat; unlimited access to food can make them feel less hungry and more prone to picky eating.

4. Keep Food Fresh: Cats have a keen sense of smell, so if they suddenly become picky, it might be due to spoiled or stale food. Store the cat food in a dry, cool place and seal it tightly after each use.

5. Consider Food Temperature: Cats may lose their appetite if the food is too cold or too hot. Aim for a temperature that's similar to room temperature.

Part 3: How to Deal with Anorexia in Cats

If a cat goes without eating for more than 24 hours, it can cause harm to their body. If your cat is showing signs of anorexia due to discomfort, it's crucial to take them to a veterinarian promptly.

If your cat is experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or soft stools, it might be due to gastrointestinal issues, and you may need to administer probiotics, antibiotics, and medications to repair the intestines. If there are symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, or coughing, it could be a cold or indicate infections such as feline distemper or feline upper respiratory disease. In such cases, a feline distemper test is necessary before starting treatment.

Many diseases can affect a cat's appetite, sometimes without any other obvious symptoms besides loss of appetite and listlessness. Therefore, if your cat stops eating for an extended period, it's essential to seek veterinary care without delay.