Many cat lovers are faced with the fact that the kitten lost his appetite for no apparent reason. This usually happens after the cat stops breastfeeding.
The transition to a new, and yet unusual food, can cause constipation in the baby. Cats are very sensitive to the smallest changes in their body. Naturally, the kitten has a poor appetite and for some time he can refuse food, but the hunger strike should not last more than three days. It is worth paying attention to the appearance and behavior of a small pet. In a healthy kitten this:
- shiny coat;
- wet nose;
- clear eyes;
- clean ears;
- claws do not crumble.
Changes in behavior and a painful appearance can indicate a disease or malnutrition of the baby.
What can serve as a refusal of food from a kitten
If the kitten lives in a private house and often goes for a walk, then the hunting instinct may be the reason for temporary hunger strikes. Toddler just hunting. Kittens are happy to catch bugs, lizards and grasshoppers. His appetite did not deteriorate, he was simply full.
City kittens do not have the opportunity to go hunting, so you need to look for the reason for refusing food. One of them may be unsuitable food. For a growing organism, the balance of minerals and vitamins is very important. It is they who form the skeleton, increase immunity, have an effect on the hair and behavior of kittens.
Lacking enough clean water can also reduce appetite when it comes to a healthy kitten.
Any vaccination temporarily reduces appetite. This is normal and you should not worry too much. Very quickly, the pet will again eat normally.
Many kittens, like children, like to chew on various objects, which can lead to damage to teeth and gums. The baby behaves normally, but eats reluctantly, sometimes "cries" when chewing. It is necessary to check the condition of the oral cavity.
Helminthic infestation is a common reason for refusing food or poor appetite. Periodically, the intestines of kittens need to be freed from worms. To do this, it is not necessary to carry to the veterinarian, you can give a pill based on the weight of the kitten.
If the kitten’s lack of appetite is accompanied by changes in behavior and appearance, you should contact your veterinarian. Signs of the disease may be:
- dull hair;
- swollen belly;
- low mobility;
- festering eyes;
- discharge from the ears;
- foci of baldness on the skin;
- discharge from the nose;
- discoloration of the mucous membranes;
Any of the signs is a reason to sound the alarm. The disease can be transmitted in utero and occur later. Some diseases can be brought into the house by people, so do not reassure yourself that the baby did not leave the house and could not become infected.
Diseases of the internal organs, as well as infectious diseases, can reduce appetite. It is almost impossible to make a diagnosis on your own, so a trip to the vet is simply necessary. A baby may have kidney, heart, liver, bone, or muscle aches.
Diseases of the nervous system and birth injuries may not occur immediately. The kitten may experience cramps, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. Such symptoms are dangerous, they scare the kitten and lead to prolonged stress with refusal to eat.
In any case, a small pet requires increased attention and care. And the best assistant in this is a qualified veterinarian.