11 y/o Spayed Female, Indoor Only Cat Not Eating

I’m really worried and could use some advice. My 11-year-old cat, Bella, has suddenly stopped eating, and it’s freaking me out. She’s always been an indoor cat and is usually a super enthusiastic eater, especially when it comes to her favorite chicken-flavored kibble. Recently, she just sniffs her food and walks away, sometimes lying down beside her bowl, looking listless. Nothing major in our routine has changed, so I’m at a loss here. She’s drinking water and using the litter box like normal, but her energy levels are definitely off. I’m planning to take her to the vet first thing tomorrow, but in the meantime, does anyone have any insight or has experienced something similar with their cats? I’m just so anxious seeing her like this, and I really want to help my little girl. Any advice would be much appreciated.

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Answer

Hello! I understand it’s concerning when your kitty's appetite changes, especially since she's always been an indoor cat. When a cat stops eating, it can be due to several factors. As cats age, they can develop conditions like dental issues, kidney disease, or even an upset tummy from something like hairballs or a change in diet. Stress or changes in their environment can also play a role.



At home, you could try warming her food slightly to make it more enticing or adding a touch of chicken broth to tempt her palate. Ensure the litter box is clean and her environment is stress-free and predictable.



Keep an eye out for other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or hiding more than usual, as these might indicate a more serious underlying issue. Cats can be masters at hiding their discomfort, so any additional symptoms or continued lack of eating warrants a closer look.



If she still refuses food or shows any worrying signs, it’s a good idea to have a chat with us via a video consult on Dial A Vet. We can dig a little deeper into her history and help guide you on the next best steps to get her feeling her best again.

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