cat not eating or drinking for 3 days
Rachel Fowler
Updated on June 30, 2026
With no water or food, it is unlikely that a cat would survive longer than three days. It is important to emphasise that when it comes to cat health, a cat that has had no food for as little as two days can become malnourished and unwell and may even need urgent veterinary care.
Why would a cat suddenly stop eating and drinking?
So be sure to pay attention if your cat suddenly stops eating. A number of different conditions may be responsible, including infections, kidney failure, pancreatitis, intestinal problems, and cancer. But it isn’t always serious — something as simple as a toothache can make your cat stop eating. Recent vaccination.
How long can a cat go without eating or drinking before it dies?
It usually takes about one to two weeks for a cat to die if it stops eating if they have a water supply. However, it may be more like three to four days without protein, even if they have enough water. This article will talk about why cats refuse to eat and how long they can go without eating.
What to give a cat that won’t eat or drink?
Your vet may also recommend trying a new food or try switching from dry food to canned food. Some cat owners have also had success with mixing in fish oil or a small amount of canned tuna into their cat’s meal.
What are the symptoms of a cat dying?
5 Signs Your Cat Is Dying
Lack of Interest In Eating and Drinking. Like other animals, it’s common for cats to lose their appetite toward the end of their lives. Extreme Weakness. Lower Body Temperature. Changes in Appearance and Smell. Seeking Solitude.
Can a cat go 48 hours without food?
While your cat might think otherwise, a cat can safely go 24-48 hours without food before any health issues appear. Cats cannot convert fat to energy as humans do, so they need food more often. If your cat stops eating for 24 hours, you need to call the vet, as there might be a medical issue.
How many days can cats go without water?
Generally speaking, cats can survive for around 3-4 days without water. What this doesn’t mean is that you should not be concerned with your cat not drinking until it has been 3-4 days. What this does mean is that at around 3-4 days without water, a cat will start to experience potentially irreversible organ failure.
What are the signs of kidney disease in cats?
General symptoms of kidney failure in cats can include:
Dehydration.Excess thirst.Weakness.Weight loss.Lack of appetite.Diarrhea (may contain blood)Vomiting (may contain blood)Depression.
Why is my cat suddenly lethargic and not eating?
Gastrointestinal Disturbances – Any condition that adversely affects the stomach or intestine can cause lethargy. Vomiting, diarrhea and constipation may also be present or the cat may stop eating or drinking. Nausea may also prevent your cat from eating and that lack of food energy will result in lethargy.
Should I force feed my dying cat?
No, you should never force feed the dying cat. It can work as a catalyst in death as her organs are already failing. It can also increase her vomiting.
How do you rehydrate a cat?
What Should I Do if My Cat Is Dehydrated?
Add a small amount of chicken broth or tuna juice to their water.Instead of dry food, try giving them wet food.Place some ice cubes in their water bowl.
How can I force my cat to drink water?
7 Creative Ways to Encourage Your Cat to Drink More Water
Place water bowls EVERYWHERE. Location, location, location—it really matters! Consider feeding your cat wet food. Add water or flavor to your cat’s food. Add flavor to your cat’s water. Use drinking fountains. Test different bowls. Encourage your cat’s drinking quirks.
When should I worry about my cat not eating?
If your cat isn’t eating at all, you shouldn’t leave it more than 24 hours before going to the vet. However, if they have other symptoms such as vomiting, urinary problems, or an increased respiratory rate, it could be an emergency and you should get them to the vet as soon as possible.
Do cats know they’re dying?
Cats seem to know when they are dying and will behave differently than normal. They might hide when close to death and follow certain patterns when they sense their time has come. They may eat less, not groom themselves, and develop a different personality.
Do cats purr when they are dying?
While dying cats may purr to indicate their pleasure, they may also purr as a coping strategy. Purring has been found to strengthen the cat’s muscles and may even produce endorphins that assist her deal with the discomfort she’s experiencing.