Appetite Stimulants For Cats: A Complete Guide To Boost Eating
Discover proven veterinary and home methods to restore your feline’s healthy hunger.
Appetite Stimulants for Cats: Helping Your Cat Eat Better
Cats can be notoriously finicky eatersâbut when your cat wonât eat at all, it can signal a serious health risk and deep worry for pet parents. Loss of appetite (anorexia) in cats is often more than just fussiness; it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition or stress response. Fortunately, veterinarians have a variety of appetite stimulants to help cats start eating again, ranging from prescription medications to supportive home strategies. This guide explores the best appetite stimulants for cats, how they work, possible side effects, and what every cat owner should know before starting treatment.
When Do Cats Need Appetite Stimulants?
Itâs normal for cats to skip a meal now and then. But when a cat refuses to eat for more than 24 hours, it is a cause for concern and should never be ignored. Extended inappetence can quickly lead to hepatic lipidosis (also known as âfatty liver syndromeâ), a life-threatening condition unique to felines. Here are some common reasons why a cat might lose its appetite:
- Chronic illnesses, such as chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or gastrointestinal issues
- Pain or discomfort, including dental disease or injury
- Stress, changes in the home environment, or introduction of new pets
- Side effects from medication or treatments, such as chemotherapy
- Age-related changes, including reduced sense of smell or taste
If your cat consistently refuses food for more than a day, itâs vital to consult a veterinarian. Never attempt to force-feed or give medications without professional guidance.
Prescription Appetite Stimulants for Cats
When behavioral modifications and environmental adjustments arenât enough, veterinarians may prescribe specific medications to increase appetite in cats. Major options include:
Best Overall Prescription Appetite Stimulant: Mirataz (Mirtazapine Transdermal Ointment)
Mirataz contains mirtazapine, a medication initially developed as an antidepressant in humans. Itâs now widely used as an appetite stimulant for cats due to its dual ability to reduce nausea and boost hunger. Mirataz has been FDA-approved specifically for feline appetite stimulation and is regarded as a first-line treatment by many veterinarians.
- Applied externally via a 1.5-inch strip of ointment to the catâs inner ear once daily
- Each Mirataz package contains a 14-day supply
- Particularly helpful for cats who resist pills or liquids
- Prescription-only medication
Potential Side Effects & Cautions:
- Drowsiness is the most common side effect
- May rarely cause âserotonin syndrome,â which includes agitation and muscle tremors
- Less commonly, changes in bone marrow or blood cell counts
- Should be used with caution in cats with liver or kidney issues or blood disorders (such as feline leukemia)
- Possible interactions with other drugs, including MAOIs and SSRIs
Mirtazapine (Tablet or Liquid Form)
Mirtazapine is also available in pill or liquid form, providing the same appetite-boosting and anti-nausea effects. However, for cats that refuse oral medication, the transdermal ointment (Mirataz) is often preferred for ease of application and improved compliance.
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Key notes:
- Tablets or liquids must be administered by mouth at dosages determined by your veterinarian
- Can cause drowsiness or behavioral changes
- Monitor for interactions with other medications
Capromorelin (Elura)
Capromorelin (brand name Elura) is a relatively new appetite stimulant approved for use in cats with chronic kidney disease. This medication works by mimicking ghrelin, a hormone that triggers hunger signals in the brain and digestive tract.
- Administered as a flavored oral liquid, once daily
- Especially effective for cats with kidney conditions
- Prescription required
Common side effects: vomiting, drooling (hypersalivation), tiredness, mild dehydration.
Cyproheptadine
Cyproheptadine is an antihistamine and serotonin antagonist that can increase appetite by blocking serotoninâs natural appetite-suppressing effects in the brain. It is not FDA-approved for use in cats but is commonly prescribed âoff-labelâ by veterinarians.
- Administered as tablets, typically 1â2 mg once or twice daily
- Well-tolerated by many cats, though mild sedation or dry mouth can occur
- Not to be used simultaneously with mirtazapine, due to additive sedative effects
Oxazepam
Oxazepam is a benzodiazepine that works by enhancing the appeal of food in a catâs brain. Reserved for short-term use or for acutely stressed, hospitalized cats, oxazepam is usually not recommended for chronic appetite issues.
- Given orally at a dose set by your veterinarian, typically 2 mg per cat every 12-24 hours
- Causes sedation â making it more suitable for brief use rather than as an ongoing solution
- Should not be combined with other sedating medications
Diazepam
Diazepam, another benzodiazepine, can stimulate appetite when given intravenously (IV). Cats often start eating within minutes of injection. Note: Oral diazepam should be used cautiously due to risk of dangerous liver toxicity.
- Intravenous use only, for short-term stimulation in a clinical setting
- High risk if given by mouth: associated with liver failure in cats, so regular bloodwork and veterinary supervision are essential
How We Chose the Top Appetite Stimulants
The appetite stimulants featured here were selected based on:
- Effectiveness and reliability (supported by clinical research and veterinary experience)
- Reviews from cat owners and feedback from veterinary professionals
- Side effect profile and tolerability
- Available forms (ointment, oral, liquid, tablet)
- Suitability for picky or medication-averse cats
We also factored in the practical experiences of cat guardians, for whom ease of administration is crucialâcats who wonât eat are rarely easy medicine takers!
Other Medical Approaches and Considerations
While the medications above are the most commonly prescribed appetite stimulants, other medical options might be considered for specific cases. These include:
- Corticosteroids (e.g., prednisolone): Sometimes used for appetite stimulation, but only in select cases due to potential side effects
- B Vitamins and Nutritional Supplements: May assist with appetite in cats who have vitamin deficiencies or are recovering from illness
- Electrolyte supplements: Indirectly improve appetite by maintaining hydration and cellular function
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new medications or supplements. Regular monitoring and communication with your vet are essential to prevent adverse reactions.
Natural and Home Strategies to Boost Cat Appetite
Not every case of poor appetite requires pharmaceuticals. A few home-care and environmental adjustments can make a big difference for mildly inappetent or recovering cats:
- Warming Food: Slightly warming wet food (not hot!) can enhance aroma and appeal
- Switching Flavors or Textures: Different brands, proteins, or consistencies may tempt your cat
- Offering Small, Frequent Meals: Encourages regular eating and reduces mealtime pressure
- Hand-Feeding: For social eaters, feeding directly from your hand can provide comfort
- Minimizing Stress: Reducing noise, creating a cozy eating space, and minimizing other household changes can help nervous cats eat again
- Using Fishy Treats: A few pieces of cooked salmon or tuna water (not oil or salted) might spark interest
- Hydration: Some cats benefit from an added cat-safe broth or watered-down food
Never use over-the-counter human appetite stimulants, herbs, or essential oils without veterinary approvalâsome can be toxic to cats.
What to Watch For: Risks and Side Effects
As with any medication, side effects are possible with feline appetite stimulants. The most common issues include:
- Drowsiness or lethargy
- Drooling or increased salivation
- Gastrointestinal upset (vomiting or diarrhea)
- Changes in behavior (restlessness, agitation)
- Increased thirst or urination
- Rarely, more serious reactions such as blood disorders (with mirtazapine) or hepatotoxicity (with oral diazepam)
Always monitor your catâs response to new medications closely and report any unusual signs to your veterinarian immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can a cat safely go without eating?
Most healthy adult cats should not go more than 24 hours without food. Kittens, sick, or senior cats are even more vulnerable to the dangers of anorexia and require faster intervention.
How quickly do appetite stimulants work in cats?
This depends on the medication. IV diazepam can work in minutes; mirtazapine or Mirataz typically begins to take effect in a few hours, while cyproheptadine and capromorelin may take a day or more. Always follow your vetâs dosage and timing instructions.
Are there any safe over-the-counter appetite stimulants for cats?
No non-prescription drugs or supplements are approved as appetite stimulants for cats. Attempts with herbs or human medications can be very dangerous; always consult a veterinarian before trying any OTC product.
Can I use human appetite stimulants for my cat?
Never use human appetite stimulants in cats unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian. Many are unsafe or lethal for cats.
What should I do if my catâs appetite doesnât improve, even with medication?
Contact your veterinarian promptly. Persistent anorexia may signal a deeper health problem or require adjustment in treatment or supportive care.
Key Takeaways: Supporting Your Catâs Recovery
- Loss of appetite in cats can be a serious medical emergency, not just a behavioral quirk
- Prescription appetite stimulantsâlike Mirataz (mirtazapine), capromorelin, cyproheptadine, and oxazepamâare effective options, but each comes with specific uses and side effects
- Supportive home care, environmental modifications, and gentle encouragement can also play a vital role in restoring your catâs appetite
- Always consult your veterinarian before starting any appetite stimulant or making major dietary changes
- Careful monitoring, patience, and compassion are key during your catâs recovery
Additional Resources and Professional Support
If youâre concerned about your catâs appetite or have questions about the best way to help them eat, consult your veterinarian as soon as possible. Expert medical advice and tailored treatment plans provide the safest path to helping your cat regain a healthy appetite and quality of life. Regular check-ins, bloodwork, and open communication can make all the difference in delicate or chronic cases.
References
- https://cats.com/appetite-stimulants-for-cats
- https://www.rover.com/blog/cat-appetite-stimulants/
- https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/cat-health-news/fda-approves-appetite-stimulant-cats
- https://www.msdvetmanual.com/pharmacology/systemic-pharmacotherapeutics-of-the-digestive-system/drugs-that-affect-appetite-in-monogastric-animals
- https://petralyte.com/blogs/research/cat-appetite-stimulant
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