Refusal of food for more than two days is abnormal feline behavior.
Loss of appetite (anorexia) in cats is always potentially life threatening
and must never be ignored.
With this disease, once your pet stops eating, he no longer wants to
eat, then won't eat, and eventually, can't eat.
Whether the cause is emotional (fright, hostility, depression) brought
on by a new environment or pet, or physical (pain, injury, trauma),
brought on by oral dysfunction, internal obstruction or illness, the
results can be disastrous without quick action, and the right nourishment.
Quick Action for Anorexia
Bring your cat to a veterinarian as soon as possible. An anorectic cat
should not be confused with a finicky eater.
The right nourishment for an anorectic cat: Water is the most important
nutrient and is required in large amounts. Cats will instinctively cut
back on food and physical activity to decrease water loss.
Increase caloric intake by adding honey to the water. Although physically
inactive, your cat's caloric needs will usually increase in proportion
to the severity of the disease or condition, responsible for the anorexia.
Increase protein supply. Protein needs are greater in anorectic cats
and must be met with easily digested, and utilized, high BV (biological
value) quality sources. Egg yolks or soft boiled eggs are easy to feed.
Lactose-free milk, plus honey and an egg yolk, adds up to fair nourishment.
Provide vitamin and mineral dietary supplements. In the cat's debilitated
condition, daily pediatric doses of zinc, vitamin B complex and vitamin
C, are recommended.
Give plenty of stroking and loving. This helps food go down and keeps
your cat's spirits up.
Restarting Stalled Appetites Mix one ounce of water with two to four
ounces of a high fat easily digestible, calorie dense (and tasty) professional
food.
Feed small amounts four to six times daily.
Finger feed (as opposed to force feed) your cat by placing pill size
portions of food on his tongue.
Offer baby food chicken and rice. This is intended only as a temporary.
fast fix appetite stimulant. After a day or two, the cat should be eased
onto a complete, nutritionally balanced diet. Gradually replace small
portions of the baby food with a quality alternative food. Heating (not
cooking) the meal will enhance flavor.
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