Reduced appetite in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

What to do

Causes

When to worry

Prevention

What to look for

Home treatment

Vet treatment

Risk

Other causes

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Reduced appetite in cats

By
✔ MRCVS
BSc
BVM&S
FHEA
Updated October 16, 2025
6 min read

Your cat may eat less or stop eating for a variety of reasons. Most cats have the occasional ‘off’ days when they don't eat or finish their dinner. But not eating can signal more serious concerns and should be investigated by a vet.

Eating less or not eating is also called anorexia or poor appetite. It suggests your cat either can’t eat or doesn’t want to eat. The causes may vary from simple dislike of the food on offer, to serious dental disease or an underlying illness. Treatment and outlook depend on why your cat won’t eat. Always speak to a vet if your cat stops eating or if they’re eating less for more than a day, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.

What to do if your cat has a reduced appetite >What to do if your cat has a reduced appetite [What to do

Common causes of reduced appetite in cats >Common causes of reduced appetite in cats [Causes

When to worry if your cat’s appetite is reduced >When to worry if your cat’s appetite is reduced [When to worry

Tips to reduce some preventable causes of reduced appetite in cats >Tips to reduce some preventable causes of reduced appetite in cats [Prevention

Things to look out for if your cat isn't eating >Things to look out for if your cat isn't eating [What to look for

How to help with a reduced appetite at home >How to help with a reduced appetite at home [Home treatment

How can vets help cats with a reduced appetite? >How can vets help cats with a reduced appetite? [Vet treatment

Are some cats at more risk of a reduced appetite? >Are some cats at more risk of a reduced appetite? [Risk

Other causes of reduced appetite in cats >Other causes of reduced appetite in cats [Other causes

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