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What should I do if my cat doesn’t eat or drink when it first arrives at its new home?

Pet Knowledge
This article is provided by Veterinarian Dr. Emma Watson
For cats that just arrive at a new home and don’t eat or drink, the owner can first prepare a quiet space for the cat, and then prepare enough water and food for the cat and place them inside. The cat will take the initiative when it is hungry. Go get something to eat. After the cat gradually adapts to the new environment, the owner can spend more time with the cat, play with it more, and soothe its nervous and fearful emotions. Cats can generally adapt to a new environment in about 3-7 days. However, if the cat does not eat or drink for more than 12 hours during this period, it needs to be taken to the pet hospital for examination. If necessary, test strips can be used to check to rule out infectious diseases. and provide timely treatment.

1. Prepare a quiet space for the cat

The reason why a cat does not eat or drink when it first arrives at a new home is mainly due to a large stress response and a timid personality, so the owner can first place the cat in a Allow it to acclimate in a quiet, dark, sheltered space. At the same time, you can also put some things that the cat has used before, such as cat bowls, litter boxes, toys, etc., in the cat’s living environment. Once the cat becomes familiar with them, he will not be so scared, and his appetite will naturally return.

2. Prepare sufficient water and food for the cat

After placing the cat in a quiet space, the owner can provide the cat with sufficient water and food in that environment. It is best to feed the cat the same cat food it has eaten before. Do not change the food immediately, otherwise it is likely to cause diarrhea. At the same time, you can add an appropriate amount of probiotics to water or food to regulate intestinal health. Remember not to force-feed your cat food. Generally, it will take the initiative to eat when it is hungry.

3. Play with the cat more

After the cat gradually adapts to the new environment, the owner can play with the cat with a cat tea stick, and can also often talk to the cat. This will help deepen the relationship between the owner and the cat, and the cat will slowly let down its guard against the owner.