New Home Stress: What to Do If Your Kitten Won't Eat or
When this situation arises, many cat owners often become particularly concerned, even mistakenly thinking their cat might be ill. Especially for kittens who have just arrived in a new home and are shy, their reactions can be quite intense. The more enthusiastic the owner is in approaching them, the stronger their reactions become. Feeding and watering them is met with little to no interest.
What should you do in response to these behaviors in cats? Cats are naturally quite cautious, and after moving to a new environment, they may exhibit a strong aversion, which is known as a stress response. Symptoms like loss of appetite, listlessness, diarrhea, and vomiting may occur. It's advisable for owners to have some probiotics on hand to effectively combat stress, alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort, and boost digestion and appetite.
In fact, a kitten's refusal to eat after moving to a new home is often due to stress. It's mainly because the cat has not yet adjusted to the new surroundings and objects. If you encounter this situation, there's no need to worry. As long as there's water available, eating will eventually become a regular occurrence. Typically, after a couple of days of adjusting to the new home, the kitten will start to eat on its own.
Additionally, provide the kitten with a designated, cozy space that is neither too large nor too quiet, allowing for some movement but also a sense of calm. Stock up on food and water, and try to avoid disturbing the cat. Once the kitten's emotions stabilize, it will naturally start to eat. As the owner, simply observe the kitten from a distance.
Generally, the younger the kitten, the quicker it adapts to new situations, usually within 57 days. Older cats may take an extra 35 days to adjust, and some may have individual differences due to their own health conditions. It's important to pay close attention to the cat's condition and make adjustments as needed based on the specific circumstances.