Cat refusing to eat new allergy food. Starving herself almost to death but not sure what to say to vet

Thanks for reaching out with your concern. It sounds like you're going through quite a tough situation, and I’m glad you reached out. When cats refuse to eat new food, especially after a diet change due to allergies, it can be worrying. Cats are known to be quite particular, and abrupt changes can sometimes lead to stress or reluctance.



Cats can be sensitive to texture, flavor, smell, or even the presentation of their food. It’s crucial, especially with dietary changes linked to allergies, to transition slowly from their old food to the new one. You might try mixing small amounts of the new food with the old, gradually increasing the new food's proportion over a week or two.



Monitor your cat closely for any signs of distress, nausea, vomiting, or lethargy. A cat not eating for more than 24-48 hours might be at risk of liver issues, known as hepatic lipidosis, which is serious.



Make sure her environment is stress-free during meal times and offer her food in a quiet area. Sometimes warming the food a little can make it more enticing.



If your cat continues to refuse food, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure she gets the nutrition she needs while addressing her allergies. I encourage you to book a video consult with Dial A Vet so we can talk through the details and find a solution that works for your kitty.