Reasons Why a Kitten Refuses Cat Food & Keeps Meowing
Section 1: Reasons Why a Cat Refuses to Eat Its Kibble Despite Its Whimpering
1. If a kitten is under 2 to 3 months old, it's not suitable to feed it dry kibble as its digestive system cannot handle the hardness. Instead, opt for easily digestible liquids or softer foods. Pet owners can offer goat's milk, or soften the kibble with goat's milk before feeding it to the kitten.
2. If a kitten is new to kibble and hasn't developed a taste for it, or simply doesn't like the flavor, the owner can try out different brands of kibble samples to find the one the cat prefers.
3. If the pet owner has suddenly changed the cat's food, and the cat hasn't adapted yet, gradually mix the old kibble with the new one until the cat is fully accustomed to the new variety and then switch completely.
4. Indigestion can be a culprit. Feeding digestive aids can help improve digestion, soothe the stomach, and alleviate any food aversions.
Section 2: How Long Can a Cat Go Without Eating Before It's in Trouble?
It's generally considered lifethreatening if a cat goes without eating for more than five days. If left unfed for an extended period, the liver's glycogen can turn into fat, providing energy to the body, which can lead to fatty liver—a dangerous condition. Moreover, if the cat also goes without water for a long time, it can cause renal dysfunction and lead to kidney failure. Therefore, if a pet owner notices their cat refusing food, it's crucial to act quickly, identify the cause, and treat it appropriately to prevent any unforeseen emergencies.
Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information on why cats may refuse to eat, check out our article "What to Do If Your Cat Has Blood in Urine and Refuses to Eat." Click here to learn more.
