I'm hoping to get some advice here because I'm really worried about my cat, Luna. She's always been a really good eater, but for the past couple of days, she just sniffs her food and walks away. It's so unlike her, and I'm starting to panic a bit. On top of that, she's been doing this strange thing next to her plate where she kind of paws at the ground like she’s trying to cover her food, almost as if she's burying something. I don't know if this is her way of telling me something’s wrong, but I'm getting scared because she's never done this before. I’ve tried changing her food and giving her her favorite treats, but nothing seems to work. Has anyone else experienced something like this with their cats? I'm planning to call the vet, but I would love to hear if anyone has any insights or suggestions in the meantime. Thanks so much.
Hello there,
It sounds like you're concerned about your furry friend's eating habits, and I’m here to help. Cats can sometimes be mysterious with their behaviors, but let's try to make sense of this together. If your cat isn’t eating and is doing something odd by her plate, she could be pawing or scratching at the floor, which is known as "food caching." This behavior is instinctual, similar to covering leftovers in the wild.
However, a sudden change in appetite can signal an underlying issue. It could be as simple as dislike for a new food or something more concerning, like dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, stress, or even a change in her environment causing anxiety.
At home, try offering her small amounts of smelly, wet food or warming her food slightly to make it more enticing. Ensure her dish is clean and placed in a quiet area she feels comfortable in. Keep an eye out for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or weight loss—these can indicate it's time for a deeper look.
If her appetite doesn’t improve in a day or two, or if you notice any of these serious signs, we should delve into this further. I recommend booking a video consult with Dial A Vet to discuss her condition in detail and figure out the best way forward. We're here to help you and your kitty get back to normal.
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