Why won't my cat eat?

by C J Hart
(Phoenix, Md USA)

My cat won't eat. I have gone to the pet store and spent $50 a week to buy cat food. If I try enough choices, he will eat. But the food that he will eat one day, he will not touch the next. He will keep coming to me and meowing, until I put some out that he wants. Honestly, I'm not rich. I can’t afford to buy this much cat food or go the veterinarian. But maybe that is what I will have to do. Can you help?


Dear CJ,

You would likely save money by going to a veterinarian for a thorough exam to rule out any medical causes for his eating behaviors and appetite problems. Metabolic diseases, dental health, and a number of other things could be contributing to the problem. Any time there is a concern with eating patterns, a trip to the veterinarian and possibly bloodwork would be recommended.

If upon physical exam and any recommended bloodwork your kitty is cleared medically, then the problem can likely be solved by a change in your habits around feeding your cat. Finicky eaters are created by their owners giving in when the cat will not eat what they have been offered. Although it can be difficult to do when your cat is begging for food all of the time, offering something new every time he cries will only encourage the unwanted behavior.

Best wishes,
Dr. Neely