- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
If your cat skips a meal or two, they’ll probably be okay for a short time. While it’s worrying when your cat refuses to eat or drink, most cats can go 24 hours without food or water and still be okay. However, it’s important to know how long is safe and when to take action.
You may read or hear of cats surviving one or two week without food, but those stories are usually about neglected or stray cats who may be eating scraps or treats. When it comes a house cat who isn’t eating at all, they will start to experience nutritional deficiencies after 24 hours.
Below, our experts explain the window of time a cat can go without food, what happen each day when a cat doesn’t eat, and when you should visit the vet.
What Happens When a Cat Stops Eating?
At the longest, a healthy adult cat shouldn’t go more than 36 to 48 hours without food. After that, their health will start to visibly and quickly decline. It’s important to act fast and contact your vet when your cat has stopped eating entirely.
Here’s what happens when your cat completely stops eating:
| Time | Symptoms | What’s happening |
| 48 hours, or 2 days | Weight loss, dull fur | Nutritional deficiency |
| 72 hours, or 3 days | Tiredness, vomiting, dark urine | Fatty liver (hepatic lipidosis) |
| 1 week | Loss of muscle mass | Weakened immune system |
After three days without food, your cat’s body begins to break down fat for energy, says Sarah Ochoa, DVM, a vet consultant with Scruffy Paws Nutrition. This can cause a dangerous condition called “fatty liver” (hepatic lipidosis), which can be life-threatening, especially for overweight cats.
After a week, your cat will lose muscle, their immune system will weaken, and the risks from fatty liver and other health issues get even worse.
Reasons a cat stops eating
There are many health to behavioral reasons cats will stop eating. These can range from an underlying illness, such as dental pain or asthma, to momentary stress or anxiety from an environmental change. When it comes to not eating, the longer your cat refuses to eat, the more likely it is an underlying health issue.
How Long Can Cats Go Without Water?
Cats need about 4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight each day. On average, cats can go about 24 hours without water before showing signs of dehydration, says Dr. Dwight Alleyne, DVM, a veterinarian with Better Pet. However, this can vary depending on your cat’s health and age.
Signs of dehydration in cats:
- Tiredness or low energy
- Weakness
- Loose or less stretchy skin
- Sunken or dull eyes
- Using the litter box less (or not at all)
Many cats get water from wet food, which is about 80% water. But if your cat hasn’t had a drink in 24 hours or stops using the litter box, it’s a good idea to call your vet.
How Long Can Kittens Go Without Food or Water?
Kittens are much more vulnerable to meal schedule changes. Kittens shouldn’t go more than 18 to 24 hours without eating.
Kittens need 2–3 ounces of water per pound of body weight every day. Changes in their drinking habits can be more serious than with adult cats.
When to Call a Vet
Contact the vet if you notice your kitten has:
- Stopped using the litter box
- Refused water in the last 24 hours
- Changed their eating habits
When it comes to cats, if home remedies don’t help your cat start eating, an underlying health issue could be the cause. Cats who refuse to eat for more than 24 hours will need to see a vet. A vet will help your cat get nutrients and find out what may be the cause for your cat not eating. Depending on the the cause, your vet may keep your cat overnight or send them home with appetite stimulants to encourage meals.
