What to do if a newly purchased cat refuses to eat

Common causes: There are two main reasons for a newly purchased cat to refuse food: stress from unfamiliarity and underlying health issues.

Stress from unfamiliarity: When a cat arrives at a new home, it is unfamiliar with its surroundings, which can cause fear and lead to refusal to eat or drink. To address this, try not to disturb the cat too much. Instead, place it in a large room alone and provide familiar objects or favorite foods to encourage it to eat.

Illness: Potential health issues, such as oral problems, colds, gastrointestinal discomfort, parasites, or hot weather, could also cause a cat to refuse food. In this case, observe the cat's behavior. If it appears uncomfortable, consult a veterinarian promptly.

First aid: If the cat is experiencing stress from unfamiliarity, confine it to a room or larger cage and provide familiar objects. Avoid force-feeding or excessively handling the cat. Allow it to settle down and gradually become accustomed to its new environment.

Illness: If the cat hasn't eaten in three to four days or shows unusual behavior, consult a veterinarian to diagnose any underlying health issues. Look for signs of oral problems, cold symptoms (such as drooling, bad breath, sneezing, or runny nose), gastrointestinal diseases (such as diarrhea), or parasite eggs around the anus. Get the cat examined and treated accordingly.

Weather: Hot weather can also cause a cat to lose its appetite. Turn on the air conditioning to maintain a comfortable temperature of around 22-25 degrees Celsius. Additionally, adding probiotics to the cat's diet can help regulate its gut bacteria, promoting appetite and digestion.