Chapter 12Pets & Animals

My cat won't eat — what should I do?

A cat that hasn't eaten in 24 hours needs a vet call. Cats develop fatty liver disease within days of not eating. Common causes: dental pain, kidney disease, stress from a new environment, or food they simply refuse.

Follow-up questions

Try warming the food?

Yes — releases smell, often works. So can adding a spoon of tuna water or plain chicken broth (low sodium).

Is my old cat just being picky?

Possible, but weight loss in senior cats warrants a workup for thyroid, kidney, and diabetes.

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