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Why is my cat not eating?
Cats tend to keep things to themselves when they’re unwell, but there are a few signs that something’s not right. Changes in grooming habits, energy levels and social activity can all be clues — but one of the clearest is a loss of appetite.
If your cat’s not eating, there could be a range of reasons behind it, from infectious diseases and chronic conditions to behavioural or environmental stressors.
At Cat Specialist Services, we offer first-class veterinary care just for cats. We make each hospital visit as comfortable as possible for them and their human families. Recently, we spoke with Dr Rachel Korman, one of our specialists in feline internal medicine, about inappetence in cats. If you’re wondering why your cat is not eating, here’s what you should know.
Age matters in cases of appetite loss
“If you’ve got a younger cat… sometimes not eating could be behavioural. Particularly if it’s a multi-cat household and they don’t feel safe or comfortable sharing food resources… but in older cats, not eating could represent serious problems like kidney disease and cancer.” – Dr Rachel Korman
Age is a major factor in narrowing down the potential causes of appetite loss and guides urgency in the investigation. In younger cats, not eating is often linked to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, liver problems or pancreatic issues. Infectious diseases are also common in this age group and are usually the first thing we try to rule out.
Sometimes, a change in appetite can be one of the earliest signs of a chronic illness. But not all causes are medical. Younger cats may stop eating due to behavioural reasons too, like feeling uneasy sharing food or eating near other cats or pets, especially dogs.
Ingestion of foreign bodies such as fabric and toy pieces is another frequent culprit for putting cats off their food, often followed by vomiting. While older cats can occasionally indulge in non-edible items, this behaviour is more common in younger ones. “We have removed all sorts of things, from bits of clothing to a plastic snake, ear buds, hair ties and Nerf bullets,” says Dr Rachel.
For older cats, chronic kidney disease is a common cause of appetite loss, and it often develops gradually over time. Cancers that affect internal organs can also reduce appetite, sometimes before any other symptoms are noticeable. While behavioural quirks can still be an issue, medical causes of appetite loss become increasingly likely with age.
Environmental and behavioural triggers
Disruptions to normal routines like sleep, play and social interactions can all have an impact. These behavioural triggers are easy to overlook but can have real physiological consequences. “Anything that interrupts a cat’s sense of comfort could be enough to put them off their food,” says Dr Korman.
Cats can be fussy, and they need safe, quiet spaces to eat without interruption from dogs, children or other cats. If they don’t feel in control of their environment, they can become anxious about eating. Ideal spots for food bowls are quiet and offer plenty of visibility. Dr Rachel says, “A safe place is generally somewhere quiet, where they can see what’s happening and know they’re not going to get ambushed… by a child or by a dog or the doorbell.”
In multi-cat households, competition for resources can create tension around mealtimes. Even subtle hierarchy dynamics, where one cat asserts quiet dominance over another, can lead to stress. Some cats may avoid eating altogether if they feel uneasy or vulnerable when sharing food spaces.
When should you worry about inappetence?
While there are some very benign causes of temporary inappetence, there are also serious ones. This can make it hard to know when it’s safe to wait and when your cat needs urgent veterinary care.
One thing that should raise immediate alarm bells is a dramatic change in eating habits. As Dr Rachel says, “If you’ve got a cat that hasn’t missed a snack in 10 years and then just suddenly stops eating, you could start worrying after one meal.”
Some cats are notorious for picking at food throughout the day. If this sounds like your cat, you may be able to safely wait and see if their appetite returns.
Just keep an eye out for general alertness, activity and behaviour. However, if their disinterest in food lasts more than 24-48 hours, it’s time to visit the vet.
When inappetence presents alongside other concerning symptoms, like vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, it’s likely to be a more serious issue. Cats can deteriorate quickly when unwell, and the sooner they receive treatment, the better.
“If you’ve got a cat who’s off their food and maybe straining to urinate or vomiting or having diarrhoea… that is more likely to be an emergency,” says Dr Korman. “In my mind, it’s always better to be safe than sorry… You’d rather have your cat checked over and find that everything’s fine than wait longer and have them end up sicker.”
“Cats tend to hide illness, so subtle changes can be important clues.”
Common misconceptions about appetite in cats
Owners often overlook signs of food avoidance because they assume what’s normal for people, like eating less in hot weather or skipping a meal when stressed, is normal for cats, too. Another common misconception is blaming poor teeth. While painful conditions like tooth root abscesses can sometimes affect appetite, Dr Rachel says, “Cats can have pretty severe dental disease and still very happily eat their food.”
Hot weather is another factor that often leads owners to dismiss their cat’s lack of appetite, especially since people commonly feel less hungry in the heat. But for cats, hot weather can make underlying health issues like dehydration or kidney disease worse. Hot weather might seem like the reason your cat’s off their food, but it’s often masking something potentially more sinister.
The fact is, cats might skip a meal now and then, but ongoing inappetence is rarely harmless. Knowing what’s normal for your cat gives you a baseline, so you can spot changes early and avoid brushing off unusual patterns of food avoidance.
Talk to the cat specialists at CSS
If your cat is refusing to eat, don’t assume it’s nothing. It could be behavioural and temporary, but there are some serious causes of inappetence, and prompt attention will give your cat the best possible chance of treatment and recovery.
At CSS, our cat-exclusive hospital is purpose-built to provide the best possible medical experience for cats. Our cat-crazy team is here to help, no matter the health issue or emergency you may be facing.
To learn more about feline medicine, our amazing team of professionals or our state-of-the-art premises, contact us today. Vets can refer patients for treatment here.
Are you worried about your cat’s health?
If you are concerned about your cat, please reach out to our friendly team. Call us on 1300 228 377 or fill out the contact form below. In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
For vets – to refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation, please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form.
Meet The Author
Dr Rachel Korman
Specialist in Feline Internal Medicine
BVSc MANZCVS (Internal Medicine) FANZCVS (Feline Medicine)
Dr. Korman’s childhood love for cats led her to veterinary medicine, and early on, it was clear that feline care was her calling. After graduating from the University of Queensland in 2000, she worked in small animal and feline-only practices across Australia and the UK.
She received a Senior Clinical Training Scholarship from the Feline Advisory Bureau (now International Cat Care) at the University of Bristol, where she researched feline infectious and haematological diseases, and in 2018, became a Fellow of the Feline Medicine Chapter of the Australian New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists and a registered Feline Medicine specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my cat not eating?
A loss of appetite can have many causes, including infections, chronic illness or stress. Changes in environment or routine may also contribute.
What other signs might appear if my cat is unwell?
Cats may groom less, sleep more or become less social. These changes often occur alongside reduced appetite.
Can behaviour cause a cat to stop eating?
Yes. In younger cats, reduced appetite can sometimes be linked to stress or behavioural changes rather than illness.
Why is appetite loss concerning in cats?
Cats often hide illness, so appetite changes may be one of the earliest warning signs. Prompt veterinary assessment can help identify the underlying problem.
When should I contact a veterinarian about appetite loss?
If your cat stops eating or shows other behavioural changes, veterinary advice is recommended. Early investigation helps determine the cause and appropriate care.
Patient Stories
Our commitment to feline health is best seen in the stories of the cats we’ve had the privilege of treating. These journeys highlight the dedication, expertise and compassion that drive us.
Each patient faced unique challenges, and it was our honour to offer high-quality care and help them regain strength and happiness. We value the deep bonds with cats and their owners, knowing the difference we make in their lives.
Kitty, a lymphoma survivor
We first met Kitty after she was referred to CSS for the evaluation of a large intestinal mass
Poppi finds her feet again
Following surgery to remove a hairball obstruction, Poppi was referred to us at CSS as she had not bounced back as expected
Rusty and his ongoing chronic rhinitis journey
Lifelong nasal issues, including persistent discharge and breathing noise, have been a bit of a thorn in Rusty’s side.
Lando’s long game with cryptococcus
Lando was referred to CSS because he had a swelling under his jaw that wouldn’t go away.
Popeye coughs up the culprit
Ares is a handsome young Maine Coon who was referred to CSS after presenting at AES with sudden lameness in his back leg.
Key Takeaways
Loss of appetite is one of the clearest signs that a cat may be unwell.
Changes in grooming habits, activity levels and social behaviour can accompany appetite loss.
Identifying the reason for inappetence early can help guide treatment and recovery.
Cat Specialist Services Reviews 
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Tanya Bell
6 months ago
We transported our cat here from another animal hospital, as his condition was too complex for them. Our pet was given the highest quality of care, multiple investigations/procedures being able to be done at the one place a godsend. We were kept up to date frequently throughout his stay. All questions & options explained thoroughly. Being able to have private visits certainly helped us and our cat too. I would highly recommend Cat Specialist Services at Underwood. Amazing staff from reception, vet nurses, vets & specialists. Oh, and yes he is recovering wonderfully at home.
Melinda Cox
A month ago
So very happy we were asked to come here for advice for our NORBIT. He has had 2 x UTI blockages within weeks of each other since turning 6. Surgery seemed to be his only option and he didn’t feel it was very fair on him if we didn’t at least exhaust all other avenues first.
Dr Allison was very thorough in her tests and has let us know she would like to treat the cause of the problem. Great news.
It may lead to removal of crystals in his bladder if his diet doesn’t let him pass them naturally.
At least this surgery won’t be as severe at taking his penis off him – so as his fur parents – we are very happy with this.
We await further tests to see what’s in store for him.
NORBIT will now be a patient of the clinic as we are so far very happy with his treatment thus far.
Lesley Rosekrans
A month ago
Hi has only been a week since losing my beautiful Peaches but can’t thank Dr Cindy, Maree and Jackie enough for the tender care they gave her and they after care they gave me. I sincerely thank them and can’t recommend the Clinic highly enough they are such caring people. Peaches I’m happier times.
Madison McEwan
A month ago
I cannot thank the entire CSS team enough and especially Dr Cindy for the care they provided for our boy with a urinary blockage, and we will be taking both our cats here from now on. The clinic is exceptionally clean and calming compared to all other clinics we’ve been too, and all staff from the reception to the nurses/vets were so supportive during a stressful time. I knew from the first minute that I got to see him after he was transferred that he was in the best place, and that the staff genuinely care about their well-being and positive long term outcomes. We were given regular updates and full transparency, so much information including QR video codes on how to administer medications, along with print outs and emails about how to best help avoid future issues or recurrence. Our boy got to smooch on everyone and was beyond well looked after. Thank you again, you all made an incredibly stressful situation actually manageable and calming.
Astrid El Gamal
6 months ago
Dr Wan-Ju has been treating my baby since her first seizure in November 2025 and she has been fantastic.
Everybody at the clinic is so friendly and caring and I know my baby is in good hands.
Thank you team!
Deeba M
3 months ago
Dr Alison Jukes from CSS Underwood is an AMAZING feline physician. She is kind, professional, thorough and our cat is blessed to have her on his side. She even was able to save us money and invasiveness by being skilled to the level of doing ultrasound on two separate occasions without our cat needing to go under full sedation. Our other cat was recently seen by Dr Jukes as well, and she made sure our cat’s heart was ok. I also want to thank the lovely Jacqueline and Mairead from customer care. They are very kind each time I see them and call up. Sending thanks from our family, including Smokey and Floozy!
Judith Dionysius
A month ago
My whole experience with CSS was positive – from the first email I received giving lots of information regarding the process of radioactive iodine treatment to the expected costs, to checking my cat in for the treatment, boarding for 2 weeks after the treatment and picking her up to come home. They didn’t push for any tests that were not necessary.
Janelle Wieden
5 months ago
We never knew this service existed but we are very grateful we were referred to them. Our vet Cindy was really great, she made us feel at ease during a very stressful time. We got the sense straight away the Leo was in good hands. This service made us feel better knowing that they specialise is cats only. Would highly recommend their services
Georgia Carter
5 months ago
My Lani finished her I-131 treatment today and I am beyond impressed with the way she was looked after. I am by definition a neurotic pet owner and sending my fur child away for a week was seriously daunting.
I was given daily updates about how kitty was eating, toileting and behaving. This really put my mind at ease. Vets and vet nurses were so accomodating and allowed Lani to have her favourite foods from home prepared her favourite way.
Her vet was so thorough when explaining her treatment and condition to me.
The ladies at reception were so friendly and understanding.
I honestly cannot recommend this clinic enough and I am so thankful for the positive experience Lani and I have had.
Lauren Woodward
A year ago
My sweet ginger boy Louis was hospitalised at CSS for a Urinary Obstruction. Dr Cindy and all the reception staff were amazing and empathetic. I would often ring up with questions post procedure and Dr Cindy would make time to talk and explain things to me
Service Locations
Cat Specialists accepts referrals for cats across Brisbane and surrounding regions, working closely with local veterinary clinics to provide specialist diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
Contacting Us
Pet Owners
If you would like to talk about treatment for your cat, call us on 1300 228 377 or fill in the form.
In an emergency, please contact your local vet.
Vets and Nurses
To refer a patient or book a telehealth consultation please call us on 1300 228 377, book through the portal or fill in the form. For advice calls, please see the guidelines here.
Monday-Friday: 8 am-6 pmSaturday/Sunday - Closed