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🐕🐈 Dogs & Cats
Not Eating (Loss of Appetite) in Pets
Loss of appetite can range from simple pickiness to a sign of serious illness. The urgency depends on the species (cats are at higher risk than dogs), the pet's size and age, and how long they've gone without eating. Cats that stop eating for more than 24–48 hours are at risk for hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), which can be fatal.
Use the Interactive Triage Tool
Answer a few quick questions to assess urgency for your pet's specific situation.
🚨 Seek Emergency Care Immediately If:
- ! Cat not eating for 48+ hours (hepatic lipidosis risk)
- ! Puppy or kitten not eating for 12+ hours
- ! Appetite loss with abdominal distension or pain
- ! Not eating after surgery or anesthesia for 24+ hours
- ! Known or suspected toxin ingestion
- ! Accompanied by difficulty breathing
ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 · Pet Poison Helpline: (855) 764-7661
When to See Your Vet
- !Cats: not eating for more than 24 hours
- !Dogs: not eating for more than 24–48 hours
- !Any pet: appetite loss with vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
- !Puppies or kittens: not eating for more than 12 hours
- !Senior pets with sudden appetite loss
- !Weight loss accompanying decreased appetite
Home Monitoring & Care
- ✓Warm food slightly to increase aroma
- ✓Try a different protein source or brand
- ✓Add a small amount of low-sodium chicken broth
- ✓Ensure a calm, quiet eating environment
- ✓For cats: try hand-feeding or offering food on a flat plate
- ✓Track exactly how much is eaten over 24 hours
Common Causes
Stress or environmental changeDental painNausea or GI upsetNew food rejectionMedication side effectsInfection or illnessPain (any source)Foreign body obstructionOrgan disease (kidney, liver)Cancer
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Disclaimer:This guide is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian for your pet's specific health concerns.