Something weird just happened, and I’m honestly at a loss. My poor cat has had a catheter in for a urinary issue since yesterday, and he’s been acting super off since then. He absolutely refuses to eat anything, and he’s usually such a little piggy! It’s so worrying—I’ve tried his favorite treats and even the smelliest wet food, but nothing. I’m really starting to panic because I know how important it is for him to eat, especially with everything he’s going through. Has anyone else been through this? Do I need to consider getting some sort of tube feeding thing, or is there another trick I can try first? I’m just scared I’m missing something here. Any advice would be so appreciated.
I completely understand why you're worried about your cat's situation. When a cat has a catheter due to a urinary blockage, it can be quite distressing for both you and your furry friend. Cats often feel uncomfortable and stressed after such a procedure, which might cause them to refuse food.
There are a few things you can try at home to encourage your cat to eat. First, warm the food slightly to enhance the aroma, as this can sometimes entice them to take a bite. Offer a variety of textures and flavors to see if anything sparks their interest. Additionally, try hand-feeding them or using a syringe (without the needle) to gently place some food in their mouth.
However, refusing to eat for more than 24 hours is a concern. Cats can develop hepatic lipidosis, a serious liver condition, if they don't consume enough calories.
Monitor your cat for signs such as lethargy, vomiting, continued refusal to eat, or any changes in behavior or breathing. If any of these occur or if you're still worried, it would be wise to book a video consult with one of our Dial A Vet professionals. They can provide guidance and determine if further intervention, such as tube feeding, is necessary.
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