Is your cat experiencing loss of appetite? Is your pet refusing to eat even their favorite cat food? Don’t fret!
In this article, you’ll learn how to care for your cat at home when they’re sick. Keep scrolling.
What To Feed a Sick Cat?
When your cat is feeling under the weather, it’s important to ensure they are getting the right nutrition to get them back to full strength.
Here are some guidelines to help you care for your sick cat:
Liquid Diet
If your cat isn’t felling well and is skipping meals, you should consider offering liquid food. Feed your ailing cat low-sodium chicken broth without seasonings, wet food or canned food with high moisture content for hydration.
Staying hydrated is beneficial for sick kitties. Ensure your cat has access to fresh water at all times, as dehydration can worsen illness.
Easily Digestible Foods
If your cat has tummy issues, go for easily digestible foods. Feed your cat plain boiled chicken, plain turkey, or rice.
If your cat usually eats dry food, consider switching to a high-quality wet food. This is often more palatable and easier to eat. Look for options specifically formulated for recovery or sensitive stomachs.
Appetite Stimulants
If your cat stops eating, it may need a little enticement. Strong-smelling foods like tuna, chicken, or baby food without onion or garlic can sometimes stimulate their appetite.
Offer small portions of food multiple times a day rather than one or two large meals. This can be easier for a sick cat to handle.
Avoid Certain Foods
There are foods that should be avoided when a cat is sick. During recovery, never give your cat dairy products, chocolate, onions, garlic, or anything spicy or highly processed.
These types of food are not suitable for a sick cat to eat. It is important to keep their diet light and easily digestible.
Helping Your Cat To Eat
Keep an eye on the weight, and overall condition of your feline. If they continue to refuse food, your cat needs to fed from a syringe. This will help them getting the nutrients.
In extreme cases, contact a veterinary promptly. You cat might need to be hospitalized and fed with the help of feeding tube.
Consult A Veterinarian
Before making any changes to your cat’s food, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian. Follow the vet’s instructions carefully.
If your cat has a specific health condition like kidney disease, diabetes, or food allergies, your veterinarian may recommend a specialized diet that meets their unique needs.
In some cases, your vet might prescribe supplements to support your feline’s recovery, such as probiotics for digestive health or omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation.
Conclusion
Caring for a sick cat requires careful consideration of their dietary needs to support recovery and overall well-being.
It’s crucial to speak to your vet to determine the cause of your cat’s illness and to receive specific dietary recommendations tailored to its condition.
