Pet Appetite Loss (Anorexia) Guide

Understanding when decreased appetite in dogs and cats may be mild, urgent, or a veterinary emergency.

Loss of appetite (anorexia) in pets is one of the most common concerns seen in veterinary medicine. While some cases may be related to mild stress or temporary stomach upset, others can indicate serious underlying disease requiring prompt veterinary attention.

Dogs and cats may stop eating for many different reasons, including gastrointestinal illness, pain, infection, toxin exposure, stress, dental disease, metabolic disorders, or systemic illness. Understanding the warning signs can help pet owners determine when monitoring at home may be reasonable and when urgent veterinary evaluation is recommended.