How Long Can A Cat Survive Without Food?
When planning a short trip, owners often wonder how long a cat survives without food. In these situations, knowing this physiological limit, in addition to the tendency of each pet, is essential.
Every day, pets are used to being alone at home while their owners carry out their professional or leisure activities. However, there are times when the outings can take longer and reach several days.
Unlike dogs, birds and fish, cats can stand to spend more time without companionship. However, despite their independence, they also require dedication and affection. Therefore, extending time away from home can end up harming the animal’s hygiene and emotional state.
Factors that affect the duration of the trip
Setting a maximum amount of time a cat can go without food is not the goal as it depends on multiple aspects, including personality. Still, there are some basic recommendations that should be considered.
- The age. Cats younger than six months should not spend more than four hours alone, as well as those that are very old. In the first case, due to the risk that the cat runs out of food and the need for affection, while in the second case, the animal becomes more dependent despite its progressive isolation.
- The type of diet. Adult cats on a dry diet can last a maximum of 48 hours alone, as long as there is enough food for them. Cans or other fresh preparations are often eaten hastily, which can leave the cat without food. In addition, the consistency of the stool is usually softer, which can affect the animal’s hygienic conditions.
- The weather. Summer is usually the most chosen when taking short trips. However, high temperatures can lead to a greater need for water, the absence of which would even be more lethal than the absence of food. Therefore, although it is always available to the animal, it is not advisable to lengthen the absence.
How long does a cat survive without food in case of illness
Sometimes, even if a cat has a food source, it can develop partial or complete anorexia caused by a more complex condition.
Among the chronic diseases that can cause loss of appetite are those of the kidney, oral or arthritis type. In addition, stressful factors such as moving house or incorporating a new member into the family can alter the animal’s diet and weight.
The maximum time a cat survives without food is approximately two weeks, as long as it has enough water. However, this extreme threshold depends on many other factors, as it can be lower if the cat is seriously ill.
In addition, the feline’s survival also varies depending on its origin. Stray cats usually have greater resistance to extreme conditions of temperature and food shortages.
Some tricks to stimulate a pet’s appetite might be changing the diet or playing games, in which you can hide small pellets, for example. If, after a few days, – without becoming malnourished – the animal still does not eat, you should take it to the veterinarian.
Cats are independent animals and their problems often go unnoticed. Therefore, notable changes in diet or greater isolation are sufficient reasons to make an appointment to help detect possible pathologies.
