Anorexia in Pets – What to Do When Your Pet Stops Eating

3 min read

As pet parents, few things are more worrying than when your dog or cat refuses to eat. While skipping the occasional meal isn’t always cause for alarm, ongoing loss of appetite—known as anorexia in veterinary medicine—can signal underlying health issues that need attention.

In this post, we’ll explore the common causes of anorexia in pets, when it’s an emergency, and the steps you can take to help your furry friend get back to eating normally.

Why Pets Stop Eating

Loss of appetite can be triggered by a variety of factors, including:

• Illness or Pain – Infections, dental disease, kidney problems, or other illnesses can make eating uncomfortable.

• Digestive Upset – Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation can reduce appetite.

• Stress & Anxiety – Changes in routine, moving homes, or introducing new pets can cause temporary anorexia.

• Diet Changes – Switching food brands or introducing a new formula can lead to rejection.

• Medications – Certain prescriptions may cause nausea or reduce hunger.

Even mild appetite loss should be monitored closely, as pets—especially cats—can develop serious complications if they don’t eat for more than a couple of days.

When to See a Veterinarian

You should contact your vet promptly if:

• Your pet hasn’t eaten for more than 24 hours (cats) or 48 hours (dogs)

• Appetite loss is accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy

• Your pet is showing signs of pain, fever, or dehydration

• You notice sudden weight loss or weakness

For cats, prolonged anorexia can lead to hepatic lipidosis, a potentially fatal liver condition—so quick action is critical.

Steps to Encourage Eating at Home

While waiting for your vet appointment, you can try these gentle strategies:

1. Offer a Favorite Food - Tempt your pet with a treat they love or a special meal, like plain boiled chicken or canned tuna (for cats).

   🔍 Tip: Warm the food slightly to enhance its smell and make it more appealing.

2. Make Mealtime Stress-Free - Ensure a quiet, calm feeding space away from loud noises, other pets, or distractions.

3. Check Food Freshness - Stale or spoiled food can turn pets away—always check the expiration date and store food properly.

4. Try Hand-Feeding - Gently offering food by hand can sometimes encourage eating, especially if your pet is anxious.

💡 If your pet still refuses food after these steps, call your vet immediately for guidance.

Important Considerations

Before making any changes:

• Don’t Force-Feed Without Guidance – This can cause stress or aspiration, especially in sick pets.

• Avoid Drastic Diet Changes – Switching foods too quickly can cause digestive upset.

• Follow Veterinary Advice – Always give medications and supplements exactly as prescribed.

  
  

Why Acting Quickly Matters

🐾 Prevent Health Decline – Prolonged anorexia can weaken your pet’s immune system.

💊 Address Underlying Issues – Appetite loss is often a symptom of a bigger problem.

❤️ Improve Comfort – The sooner your pet eats, the faster they’ll regain strength and energy.