My cat is getting over a serious illness, and she doesn't seem to have an appetite. Is there anything I can do to make her eat?
You don't have to use all of these tips, just try and find out which ones work through trial and error.
- Feed little and often. Small quantities may whet a jaded appetite.
- Use high quality, energy dense food. It is more palatable.
- Use animal based products, as cats are carnivorous.
- Mash and puree the food - 'slurp and swallow' takes less energy than chewing.
- Feed at appropriate times and in appropriate places.
- Use smelly foods that may stimulate the appetite, such as pilchards.
- Warm the food to body temperature.
- Use pottery or china dishes, as some plastics can absorb taints, and some pets don't like metal.
- Use wide flat saucers or plates, wary cats can watch for dangers while they are eating and their whiskers will not touch the side of the saucer.
- Do not feed next to the litter tray.
- Provide privacy.