Is your kitten not eating? Here are a few possible reasons why your furry friend might be refusing food and some tips to help them start eating.
Why Isn’t My Kitten Eating?
There are a few reasons why your kitten might not be interested in their food. Understanding these reasons can give both new and experienced pet owners peace of mind about their pet’s health.
It’s important to identify what’s causing this behavior in your pet so you can take steps to help.
Here are some common reasons why kittens refuse to eat.
They don’t have a regular eating schedule
Kittens need to eat at consistent times to support their growth and energy levels! While some pet parents may prefer leaving food out all day, this can disrupt your kitten’s routine and lead to overeating or undereating.
To ensure your kitten eats at the right times, establish a feeding schedule and stick to it. Around 8 weeks old, kittens should be fed three to four times a day, reduced to three times a day by 12 weeks – in the morning, afternoon, and evening before bedtime.
Read Also: Stages of Kitten Development: First Weeks & Months
They’re Not Familiar With The Food
You can give your kitten dry food, wet food, or a mix of both. But sticking to the food they’re already used to can reduce their stress as they settle into life with you.
If you want to switch their food, do it gradually by mixing the new food with the old one over a few days. This helps your pet adjust smoothly without feeling stressed or losing their appetite suddenly. It’s also good to change your pet’s diet occasionally, up to four times a year, to add variety, find their favorites, and prevent any dietary issues or allergies.
They Feel Stressed & Anxious
When kittens leave their mothers and enter a new environment, they often feel some stress and anxiety. This can cause them to lose their appetite if they’re unsure about their new home.
Your role is to help your kitten adjust smoothly. Keep them away from other pets and reduce noise levels in your home to make them feel safe. Let your kitten explore their new surroundings at their own pace. Show them where to find the litter box and food bowl, and provide something warm and cozy in their bed, like a soft blanket or toy to snuggle with.
Read Also: Why Does My Kitten Keep Crying? – 6 Reasons
They Are Sick
If your kitten is unwell, they might not feel like eating. Various health issues like stomach problems, infections, and constipation can lead to this.
If your kitten doesn’t eat anything for more than a day, it’s crucial to seek help from your vet right away. Kittens are delicate at this age, and without food and water, they can become very sick rapidly. Your vet will examine your kitten to find out why they’re not eating and prevent any further problems.
Check our article about Recognizing The Signs of Illness in Kittens for more.
They Recently Had a Vaccine
Visiting the vet and getting a vaccination can stress out a kitten, leading to discomfort and loss of appetite. Your kitten might eat, but not as much as usual. Keep an eye on their behavior and appetite.
If they seem very tired or don’t start eating normally within a couple of days, let your vet know.
They are Teething
Teething can make kittens feel uncomfortable and reduce their appetite due to inflammation and pain. It’s normal up to a certain extent, but make sure your kitten still eats something. If they keep avoiding food, chew differently, or seem very uncomfortable, it’s best to have them checked by the vet.
Again, if your kitten doesn’t eat anything for more than a day, call your vet right away.
Your Kitten Might Be Full
Make sure you’re feeding your kitten the right amount at each meal according to their age and stage of development to avoid over or underfeeding. Your kitten might not be eating at lunchtime because they’re still full and satisfied from their morning meal.
How Can I Make My Kitten Eat?
Here are a few things you can try to help your kitten eat:
- Offer different flavors and textures of kitten food.
- Warm the food to body temperature, especially if it’s been in the fridge.
- Use a wide, shallow bowl, preferably made of ceramic or glass.
- Clean the kitten’s dish thoroughly with soap and water.
- Move the food bowl to a quiet area.
- Keep children and other pets away from the kitten during mealtime.
- Make sure your kitten isn’t sick.
When You Should Worry
Because kittens are young and delicate, it’s important to keep track of how long they’ve gone without eating. If it’s been more than 24 hours and your kitten still isn’t interested in food, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet. Look out for concerning signs like vomiting and diarrhea.
Veterinarian Dr. Ryan Miller from PaawFriend agrees, saying, “Kittens need a daily intake of calories; when they’re small, their blood sugar can drop quickly. If they haven’t eaten for a day, it’s best to take them to the vet for a check-up, where they can be examined for any illnesses or parasites.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is it OK for a kitten to not eat?
It’s generally okay for a kitten to not eat for up to 24 hours. However, if a kitten goes beyond this timeframe without eating, it’s important to seek advice from a veterinarian to ensure no underlying health issues are causing the lack of appetite.
Will kittens stop eating on their own?
Yes, kittens will generally stop eating on their own when they’re full. Like adult cats, kittens have internal mechanisms that regulate their appetite, and they will typically stop eating once they’ve had enough food.
Do kittens need food at night?
Yes, kittens typically need food at night, especially if they are very young or still growing. Kittens have high energy needs and smaller stomachs, so they may need to eat more frequently than adult cats.
Can I give a kitten water?
Yes, you can give a kitten water. It’s important to ensure that kittens have access to fresh, clean water at all times, especially if they are eating dry food.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, understanding the reasons behind your kitten’s lack of appetite and implementing appropriate measures can help ensure their health and well-being. By maintaining a regular feeding schedule, offering a variety of food options, and monitoring their behavior closely, you can address any issues promptly and support your kitten in developing healthy eating habits.
Remember, seeking veterinary advice is crucial if your kitten continues to refuse food or shows concerning symptoms.
