How Long Can A Cat Go Without Eating After Surgery?

[Paw And Paw]

If your cat recently had surgery, you might notice they’re not as eager to eat as usual. It’s common for cats to lose their appetite temporarily after an operation, but as a responsible pet owner, it’s important to know how long this is normal and when to take action. In this guide, we’ll cover why your cat might not be eating, how long they can safely go without food, and what you can do to encourage them to eat.

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Why Cats Might Stop Eating After Surgery​

Several factors can contribute to a loss of appetite in cats after surgery:

1. Anesthesia Side Effects: Anesthesia can make cats feel groggy, nauseous, or disoriented, leading to a temporary lack of interest in food.
2. Pain or Discomfort: Post-surgery pain can make eating uncomfortable.
3. Stress: Being in a new or unfamiliar environment, like a vet clinic, can cause stress that suppresses appetite.
4. Medications: Certain painkillers or antibiotics may upset your cat’s stomach.
5. Restricted Mobility: Cats may feel less inclined to eat if moving causes discomfort.

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How Long Can a Cat Go Without Eating After Surgery?​

While it’s normal for a cat to skip a meal or eat less for a day after surgery, they should resume eating within 24-48 hours.

• Short-term fasting: Healthy cats can typically go up to two days without food, but this is not ideal after surgery.
• Long-term risks: If a cat doesn’t eat for more than 48 hours, they are at risk of developing hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver disease), a life-threatening condition.

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What to Do If Your Cat Isn’t Eating After Surgery​

1. Monitor Their Behavior​

• Check for other signs of discomfort or distress, such as vomiting, lethargy, or difficulty moving.
• Ensure your cat is drinking water to avoid dehydration.

2. Offer Tempting Foods​

• Serve warm, aromatic foods to entice them.
• Try wet cat food or special recovery diets recommended by your vet.
• Offer small amounts of plain, cooked chicken or fish as a treat.

3. Create a Comfortable Environment​

• Ensure your cat has a quiet, stress-free space to recover.
• Keep their food and water bowls in an easily accessible location.

4. Use Appetite Stimulants​

If your cat refuses to eat, consult your vet about using appetite stimulants like mirtazapine or cyproheptadine.

5. Check for Pain Management​

Make sure your cat’s pain is well-controlled. If they seem uncomfortable, ask your vet about adjusting their pain medications.

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When to Call the Vet​

Contact your veterinarian if:

• Your cat hasn’t eaten anything for more than 24 hours post-surgery.
• They refuse water or show signs of dehydration (sunken eyes, dry gums).
• They display symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or extreme lethargy.
• Their surgical incision appears red, swollen, or infected.

Prompt medical attention can prevent complications and ensure your cat recovers smoothly.

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Tips for Encouraging a Cat to Eat After Surgery​

1. Serve Smaller Portions: Offer small, frequent meals instead of one large serving.
2. Elevate the Food Bowl: If bending down is uncomfortable, use a raised bowl to make eating easier.
3. Warm the Food: Slightly warmed food has a stronger aroma, which can entice your cat.
4. Hand-Feed Your Cat: Gently offer food by hand to encourage them to eat.
5. Add a Topper: Sprinkle a small amount of tuna water or low-sodium chicken broth over their food.

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How to Prevent Loss of Appetite in Future Surgeries​

• Pre-surgery checkup: Ensure your cat is in optimal health before surgery.
• Post-op care plan: Discuss pain management and appetite stimulation with your vet.
• Hydration support: Ask your vet about providing subcutaneous fluids if your cat is at risk of dehydration.

After surgery, it’s normal for a cat to experience a temporary loss of appetite, but they should start eating within 24-48 hours. Monitoring your cat closely, providing tempting foods, and maintaining a stress-free environment are key to their recovery.


If your cat hasn’t eaten in over 24 hours or shows other concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. A quick response can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and safe recovery.


For more post-surgery tips and cat care advice, join the discussion at CatLoversForum.com! Share your experiences and learn from fellow cat owners.