Saturday, May 4, 2013

Reasons Why A Cat Wont Eat

By Alison Wilcox


Many feline owners are well aware of just how finicky some cats can be. While this may be due to a variety of different things, sometimes ruling out possible causes for when a cat wont eat can help an owner get to the bottom of things. However, doing so can take a little bit of know-how, observation, and careful planning.

It's common for felines to be picky about their food. Even so, it may also be due to other factors that can sometimes be hard to detect, such as certain health concerns. Due to this, it's usually wise to consider taking your pet to a veterinarian if you see signs that they aren't eating properly.

While certain illnesses may be the cause for a cat's lack of eating, it may also be due to other things. Sometimes vaccinations may cause an animal to have problems with their eating. However, such symptoms typically only last for a short while and are usually mild.

If certain health concerns and other factors have been ruled out, then sometimes monitoring their behavior might help. When it comes to physical behaviors, try to take note of their bathroom habits. It may also be wise to factor in potential problems with allergies or hairballs. Fortunately, many foods are available that target issues like this, such as hairball control, foods for sensitive stomachs, and foods that are ideal for cats that are allergic to ingredients like wheat.

A feline may stop eating due to psychological issues as well as physical problems. This is why monitoring your pet and potentially keeping track of events with a journal may be beneficial. Some problems may arise when changes in their environment occur. This might include a new pet or the loss of an old one, moving, or even a change in their owner's schedule.

Aside from changes in the environment causing potential problems, some pets may actually suffer from certain psychological disorders. This may include anything from anxiety to depression. This is something that may develop later in life, and either condition can be caused by changes in their environment as well.

If you have recently changed your pet's food, then this might be something to consider. Sometimes changing food too drastically may throw a feline off, and it may cause problems with their digestive system. In some instances, a pet may prefer a different type of food than what it might usually get, particularly as they get older, such as wet or soft food versus dry. Having their teeth checked may also help. If you feel that your pet can handle it, sometimes switching food over gradually, making sure to mix it with their original food for a week or so, may be a way to find a food that suits their liking.

Making an effort to observe behavior to rule out causes as to why a cat wont eat can be a great way to start. However, patience is also needed along with ensuring that their health is where it should be. If you notice a decline in their health or that their eating habits have become worse, then it may be wise to consult with a vet. Sometimes making sure that they are fed while supervised can also help, especially since some cats may eat when their owners aren't home, and others may even eat another animal's food, like food for dogs.




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