🍽️
Pet Won't Eat: Food-Related Causes & What to Do
Sudden refusal to eat is a non-specific sign of distress. After ingesting a problem food, it often means digestive upset or early toxicity.
Severity: moderate
Cats: 24 hours of refused food = vet visit. Dogs: 48 hours, or sooner if other symptoms are present.
Understanding loss of appetite
Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease) within 48–72 hours of not eating, making this much more urgent in cats than dogs.
Home care
Try warming food slightly to enhance smell, offer favorite treats, ensure clean water access. If they accept water but not food, it's still concerning.
Emergency contacts
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435
Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
Both are 24/7 — small consultation fee may apply.
Ad slot · article-mid