Famished feline facts: How long can cats go without food?

Updated 29/04/2024

Cats are amazing animals. They’ve been a furry part of human families for thousands of years, yet their brains and survival instincts are almost no different from their wild kitty ancestors. They’re born survivalists, even if they demand the finer things in life. So, to ask how long can cats go without food is more about questioning how they would survive in extreme circumstances and not day-to-day living.

We’re going to have a look at reasons why a cat won't eat and how to help, as well as understand how long a cat can go without eating. If you notice any change in your feline's behavior, eating habits, or well-being, always contact their vet straight away.

With that in mind, how long can cats go without food? 

How long can cats go without food?

Okay, worst case scenario: The apocalypse has happened, all humans are gone, and domestic cats now have to survive by themselves. While cats won’t have a problem continuing to run the world, they might struggle to open wet food cans or sachets. So, they must now hunt and scavenge for dinner. How long can a cat go without eating? The quick answer is up to two weeks.

However, pet people, you must never leave your feline famished. If a cat has gone 24 hours without food, you need to contact your vet immediately. Cats are subtle with sickness, and they’ll do their best to hide any issues until it’s really bad. But, one clear sign your cat is unwell or upset is a loss of appetite.

How long can a cat go without water?

Very similar to the point above, if you haven’t seen your cat drinking water in 24 hours, you need to book a vet appointment. In worst-case-scenario terms, a cat can survive for three days without water. This means they need to be kept hydrated throughout the day with wet food and a water bowl or fountain. Any signs of dehydration or an untouched drinking water bowl need to be reported to your vet ASAP.

Why is my cat not eating?

Issues with their food and water bowls

Did you know some cats are allergic to plastic food and water bowls? If you’ve recently changed their food bowls, and you notice a loss of appetite, they’ve developed a swollen bottom lip or other skin issues like hives, this could be a sign they’re allergic.

Another food bowl deterrent could be another animal’s scent. If your kitty is an outdoor panther and you have a cat flap installed, other cats could be helping themselves to a sneaky snack while your back is turned. Cat flaps with microchip detectors or collars can easily put a stop to any food theft.

They’re a picky eater

Stop the presses, pet people, we have some huge news! Cats are picky eaters. We know, it’s quite a shock, but it’s true.

In all seriousness, sometimes the most obvious answer to a question is the right one. Most cat carers will know how purr-ticular some meow babies can be. Ask yourself some key questions if you notice your cat’s not eating. Have you recently changed their wet food or dry food? Well, maybe it’s not up to their standards. Have you been feeding them a certain flavor continuously? That flavor may no longer interest them, and they want something new. Used a different soap to wash their food and water bowls? The new smell has clearly put them off their food.

While food snobbery could be a reason your cat’s not eating, there is always a chance it’s something more serious. Take them to the vet regardless, a loss of appetite can mean more than brand bias.

Similarly, this isn’t a question of what cats can and can’t eat if you’ve vet-checked their food beforehand it’s safe to presume it’s kitty edible.

Food allergies

Cat food allergies can happen at any point in a cat’s life. While they may appear simply to be picky eaters, they might also be trying to tell you something else: That kind of food doesn’t agree with their tummies. Food allergies are normally accompanied by other symptoms such as skin rashes or hives, constant scratching, swollen face or eye, vomiting, and diarrhea. Again, if you suspect they have a food allergy or they’re showing any of those symptoms, you must consult your vet immediately.

Liver and kidney disease

Sadly, kidney disease is quite common in felines, particularly in senior or overweight cats. Chronic kidney disease can cause cats to become inappetent and lose weight. A period of anorexia, usually for more than 3 days, can lead to a serious and life-threatening liver disease called hepatic lipidosis. This is also called fatty liver disease, and it’s most common in overweight cats. The body will try to use its own fat stores to supply energy and nutrients, which can overwhelm and seriously damage the hard-working liver. This disease is serious but treatable - the sooner your vet knows your cat hasn’t been eating, it’s more likely they can prevent things from getting this serious.

Other medical issues

Dental issues like tooth loss, tooth damage, or infections will quickly put a cat off their food as it can be painful or difficult for them to chew. Regular vet checkups and having a look at their gums and teeth once a month can help prevent future dental problems.

Cat medical issues can also be psychological or related to a mental health problem. Cats can suffer from depression, grief, and anxiety which can cause your cat to stop eating. Note down any recent household changes or stressful events and talk them over with your vet.

Meet our veterinary expert, Holly

This article has been checked by veterinarian Holly Anne Hills BVM BVS BVMedSci. After graduating from the University of Nottingham, Holly spent two years working as a farm animal vet. She then spent some time traveling and volunteering in India, working at neutering clinics and with injured street dogs. Holly now works in small animal practice, and balances this with writing, volunteering with the comms team at Vet Sustain, and she is also a marine mammal medic!

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