Cats are known to be picky eaters. Their eating habits depend greatly on their mood and what happens around them. Many cat parents face the issue of their cat suddenly rejecting wet food but continues to have treats, dry food, and drink water.
Such behavior usually worries cat owners about their feline friend’s health and eating habits. Let’s check out the common reasons why your cat has suddenly stopped eating wet food.
7 Reasons your Cat is not Eating Wet Food
Not Hungry
Cats, particularly indoor ones with lower activity levels, often eat less than their more active counterparts. If your cat has already eaten enough to satisfy its energy needs, it might not be interested in wet food, especially if it has free access to dry food or has recently eaten.
Had too Many Snacks/Treats
Overindulgence in treats can make your cat feel full, reducing its interest in regular meals. Treats are often more flavorful and thus can be more appealing, but they can also be more filling, leading to a decreased appetite for their standard wet food.
They are ill
When cats don’t feel well, they naturally eat less or stop eating altogether. This can be due to various illnesses affecting their appetite, from dental issues causing pain to systemic diseases resulting in nausea or a lack of interest in food.
They are Bored with Wet Food
Cats can grow tired of eating the same wet food day after day. Their desire for variety can lead them away from their food bowl. A lack of variety can also lead to nutritional imbalances if the wet food does not provide a complete diet when fed exclusively.
They don’t like the Taste or Smell Anymore
Cats have a keen sense of taste and smell, and their preferences can change. They may also be sensitive to changes in the food’s formula, its freshness, or even the smell if it’s different from what they are accustomed to.
Food Aversion
Cats may develop an aversion to certain foods after a negative experience, such as vomiting or discomfort after eating. This is a survival mechanism where they associate the food with the bad experience and thus avoid it in the future.
Stress
Cats are sensitive to stress, and changes in their environment or routine can affect their eating habits. Stress can stem from various sources, such as new pets in the home, changes in the household, or even the absence of a family member.
Tips to Get Your Cat to Eat Wet Food
Keep the Feeding Bowl and Area Clean
Cats have a strong sense of cleanliness and can be put off by food bowls that have residual smells or food particles. Ensuring that the bowl and feeding area are clean can help make mealtime more appealing. A dirty environment can be associated with danger or discomfort, deterring them from eating.
Warm the Wet Food
Warming up wet food can release aromas that make it more attractive to cats. Their prey in the wild would be body temperature, so warm food can seem more natural and appetizing to them. However, make sure it’s only slightly warmed, as too hot can cause burns, and too cold is not as appealing.
Mix Wet Food with Dry Food
Some cats may prefer the texture or taste of dry food. Gradually mixing wet food with their favorite dry food can help them get used to the new food. The dry food’s familiar taste can act as a bridge to accepting wet food.
Change Wet Food Brand
If a cat is reluctant to eat a particular brand of wet food, it may be worth trying a different brand. Each brand has a unique recipe, and some cats may prefer one over another. It’s important to introduce new foods gradually to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
Check the Food is not Smelly
If wet food smells off, a cat is likely to turn away from it. Always check the expiration date and the smell of the food before serving. Cats are particularly sensitive to the freshness of their food, and a bad smell can indicate spoilage or contamination.
Develop a Strict Feeding Routine
Cats are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Having a set time for meals can help regulate their hunger and improve their eating habits. Consistent meal times can create a sense of security and structure, making them more likely to eat regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it bad if my cat won’t eat wet food?
It’s not necessarily bad if your cat won’t eat wet food, as some cats have a preference for dry food. However, wet food can provide hydration and is often recommended for urinary tract health. If your cat is healthy and eating a balanced dry food diet, not eating wet food may not be a concern.
How do I tell if my cat doesn’t like his food?
If your cat sniffs the food but doesn’t eat it, walks away from the bowl, or only eats a little before leaving the rest, these may be signs that your cat doesn’t like his food. A sudden lack of interest in food that was previously enjoyed can be a clear indicator of dislike.
How do I transition my cat from wet food to dry food?
To transition your cat from wet to dry food, start by mixing a small amount of dry food into wet food and gradually increase the proportion of dry to wet over a week or two. This slow transition helps avoid digestive upset and allows your cat to adjust to the texture and flavor of the dry food.
Do I need to see a vet if my cat is not eating wet or dry food?
Yes, if your cat stops eating altogether, wet or dry, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. Cats can develop serious health issues like hepatic lipidosis when they stop eating, and a lack of appetite can be a sign of underlying health problems.
How to feed your cat wet food while you are away?
To feed your cat wet food while you’re away, consider using an automatic pet feeder with ice packs to keep the food fresh. Alternatively, you can ask a neighbor or a pet sitter to visit your home to feed your cat according to its regular feeding schedule.