A cat’s appetite is a huge indicator of its health. Many conditions and issues will make cats lose their appetite, which may become a huge concern. When this happens, you’ll need to be right by your cat’s side, making sure they get all the nutrients they need.

Here, we’ll talk about the best tips you’ll need to increase your cat’s appetite. But before we do that, let’s talk about the major causes of appetite loss in cats.

What Causes Cats to Lose Appetite?

Cats can lose their appetite for different reasons. From health problems, stress, and changes in their diets, here are the most common reasons why cats lose their appetite:

1. Medical Issues

Health problems are a leading cause of appetite loss in cats. This is usually a symptom of different diseases. When a cat isn’t feeling well, they may avoid eating due to discomfort or nausea. Any problem that can make your cat feel pain or discomfort when eating makes them lose their appetite.

Common medical issues include dental problems such as tooth fractures and gingivitis in cats, which may cause pain when they eat. Kidney disease is another common culprit, particularly in older cats, causing nausea and a lack of interest in food.

Gastrointestinal issues, including pancreatitis or stomach infections, often result in vomiting, diarrhea, and an unwillingness to eat. Respiratory infections that block a cat’s sense of smell can also reduce their appetite since the aroma of food plays a significant role in enticing them to eat. Pain from other conditions, such as arthritis or injuries, can also make eating difficult, as discomfort may overshadow their hunger. 

2. Stress and Anxiety

Cats are highly sensitive creatures. If any changes happen, their routines will become disrupted, causing stress and anxiety. As a result, cats lose their appetite for small things, such as changing their bed sheets to larger ones, such as moving to a new home.

Social stress, such as conflicts with other pets or being fed in a busy area, can also discourage them from eating. Cats prefer quiet, stress-free spaces to eat, so a noisy or chaotic feeding area can lead to skipped meals.

In some cases, stress-related appetite loss may also be accompanied by hiding, reduced interaction, or changes in grooming habits. Behavioral changes are seldom accompanying symptoms.

3. Dietary Preferences and Habits

Cats are known for their selective eating habits. A sudden change in what cats eat can lead to resistance, especially if the new food is introduced too quickly. Cats are creatures of habit, and changes can cause them to reject their meals.

Even the quality of food plays a role. Stale or improperly stored food might be less appealing to your cat. Additionally, texture and flavor preferences vary among cats. Some may prefer soft food, while others might prefer crunchy kibble or chunks in gravy. Cats have different preferences, which means that they won’t immediately accept any new food you introduce. It takes time and patience.

4. Aging and Chronic Conditions

As cats age, their metabolism naturally slows, which can result in eating less. However, appetite loss in older cats can also mean chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism. These conditions cause nausea and fatigue, making cats lose their appetite. Older cats may also experience a reduced sense of smell and taste, further diminishing their interest in food. 

Tips on How to Increase Cat Appetite

If your cat isn’t eating much, there are steps you can take to encourage them to eat again and regain their lost appetite. These tips will help you help your cat eat and regain its love for food.

1. Consult the Experts

Before trying any home remedies, it’s important to determine any medical conditions that could be the cause of your cat’s loss of appetite. One of the common causes of appetite loss in cats is health issues. This means that your cat’s lost appetite might be a symptom of certain diseases.

Using diagnostic tests and examinations, we may detect issues like dental pain, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal problems. In these cases, we may prescribe appetite stimulants, anti-nausea medications, or treatments to help your cat get back to eating.

Additionally, we can help you create a much more enticing diet plan for your cat. By knowing its condition and preferences, we help your cat regain its lost appetite.

2. Enhance Food Appeal

Cats rely on their amazing sense of smell when eating, so enhancing the aroma of their food will help. Try warming the wet food slightly in the microwave, just enough to bring out the smell without making it hot. Adding a small amount of flavor enhancers, such as low-sodium chicken broth, can help.

If your cat prefers variety, try offering foods with different textures or flavors. Some cats may favor pate-style wet food, while others might enjoy chunky options or kibble. Experiment with these choices and see what your cat prefers. Once you do, stick to it regularly.

3. Create a Stress-Free Feeding Environment

Cats are super sensitive. Eating in a relaxing environment will help them have a consistent appetite. Choose a quiet, low-traffic spot for their meals, away from loud noises, other pets, or busy household areas. 

4. Introduce Variety Gradually

If your cat has lost interest in their current food, introducing a new food option can help keep things interesting. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with its usual food. Slowly increase the portion of the new food over time. This helps reduce shock and allows your cat to adjust.

For cats who are picky eaters, try mixing in a small amount of their favorite treat to make meals more appealing. Keep portions small in order to not overwhelm your cat.

5. Explore Appetite Stimulants

In cases where your cat’s appetite remains low despite other efforts, appetite stimulants may be necessary. Natural options include sprinkling a pinch of catnip over their food or offering treats specifically designed to encourage eating.

If natural methods aren’t effective, consult your vet about medications like mirtazapine or cyproheptadine, which can help increase appetite. These should only be used under professional guidance.

6. Help Your Cat Eat

Some cats love to spend time with their owners, and helping them eat can strengthen that bond. If your cat has trouble eating, you can assist by reaching out your hand and helping them eat. This creates a stronger connection that makes your cat feel you are right by their side.

Additionally, you can also buy the tools to help them. Use a shallow, wide bowl to make eating more comfortable, especially if your cat dislikes deep bowls that press against their whiskers.

How to Maintain Your Cat’s Appetite

Helping your cat regain and keep its appetite isn’t a one-time effort. It’s a continuous process. Here’s how you can help maintain your cat’s appetite and eating habits:

1. Monitor Eating Habits

Watch how much food your cat is eating each day. Make sure to take notes on its behavior while eating, which can include avoiding food or finishing a full meal. Taking note of what your cat loves and hates can help you know what to give and how much. Watch for subtle behaviors, like sniffing food but not eating or showing interest in treats but refusing regular meals. 

2. Track Weight and Physical Health

Regularly check your cat’s weight to ensure they aren’t losing too much or gaining excessively. You can easily do this at home with weighing scales. Along with our vets’ advice, make sure to check your cat’s health at home. This can include its coat health, energy levels, and behavior. For example, if your cat is starting to be more active and wants to spend more time with activities, then that’s a good sign.

3. Adjust Feeding Strategies

Once your cat’s appetite improves, maintain a balanced diet and feeding routine to prevent future issues. Make sure to continue offering the food your cat loves and needs. If your cat seems to get bored of the food, change it up.

Try different food textures, flavors, or brands. Take note of these changes and the amount your cat eats over time. A cat’s preference can change, so make sure to adjust if your cat seems to get bored with the food. 

4. Seek Help

Maintaining and monitoring your cat’s appetite comes with the help of our vets. Work with us so we can keep your cat’s appetite consistent. If your cat needs extra help because of a health condition, we can gladly assist you in the process. Regular checkups will be your best friend.

Conclusion

A healthy appetite is a big part of your cat’s overall well-being. Your cat might lose its appetite sometimes, which is why it’s important for us as pet owners to help them get the nutrition they need. With a simple push and a few tweaks, your cat’s appetite will get back on track.