How Long Can Cats Go Without Food?
Cats are extraordinary creatures that possess the wonderful ability to advance in tough circumstances. One of the questions often asked is “can cats survive without food?”
Survival Time of a Cat Without Food
The survival time of a cat without food depends on its health, physical condition and age. Generally, a healthy cat can survive up to two weeks without food, but as cats are small animals they lack fat and muscle stores, and this time frame could be shorter.
Reason for Fasting
There are several reasons why you might have to put your cat on a fast. These reasons include, but are not limited to:
- Illness: gastrointestinal upsets, vomiting, inflammation, etc.
- Preparation for a procedure: blood or other tests
- Surgery: especially for anesthetics
It’s imperative to speak with a vet before placing your cat on a fast.
Outcomes of Fasting
It’s important to note that fasting can have numerous consequences on your cat such as, but not limited to:
- Kidney failure: if starved for more than three days
- Hypoglycemia: low blood sugar
- Liver failure: due to the breakdown of the cat’s own fat stores
Conclusion
We can conclude that cats shouldn’t go for more than a few days without food, and can generally survive up to two weeks without food, yet this survival time can be highly affected by several factors. In any case, it is always best to consult with a vet before making any decisions regarding feeding your cat.
