My 5-month-old kitten isn't eating much. Is this normal or concerning?

Hi there, and thanks for your question on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. A decreased appetite in a young cat who's usually a good eater is definitely cause for concern. Although it's not a very specific symptom, appetite tells us a lot about how our pets are feeling, and since the decreased appetite has been going on more than 24 hours, it's time for Cash to see the vet. Hope this helps and he feels better soon!

Thank you for your question! If Roxzy is otherwise doing well – it is good you noticed that his stool is normal, he’s not vomiting and his energy level is good – I am not overly concerned if his appetite is down for a few days. But it if it persists or he seems otherwise unhealthy I would recommend getting him looked at by your vet. Of course it is never wrong to have him examined so if you’d rather be safe I would certainly support you taking him in!

It sounds like he is getting sick. Without additional clinical signs it is hard to say exactly what is causing his lethargy and decreased appetite but he could be starting with a respiratory virus or a gastrointestinal virus. He could also have parasites that need to be treated. If it continues than he should be examined by a vet to determine the cause. Your vet can run lab work to help diagnose and then determine the best way to treat. If he is unvaccinated, please discuss a vaccine plan with your vet once he has recovered from this illness.

It is normal for kittens to play really hard and then sleep really hard. At this age I expect them to sleep more than play. This changes as they get a little older. If she is eating at least 1/2 cup of food a day, she may be just getting full and realizes she doesn't have to eat it all at once and this is also okay. Sometimes kittens will graze on grass and plants out of curiosity. Just make sure you don't have an toxic plants in your house/yard. BUT if you think she is eating less than this and doesn't play much at all and you think she is getting weak then I would see your vet for an exam. She may have something else going on like an infection or parasites that needs to be addressed. Your vet will be able to do a fecal and possibly bloodwork if needed. I hope this helps!

Cats tend to eat slightly less once they have finished growing and their behavior can also settle as they grow up. If there is any weight loss or other signs of ill thrift such as poor coat or muscle condition i would recommend a full health check. Be sure to keep up to date with deworming medications and other preventions

That could be completely normal. I would try to change food to see if there are any improvement regarding appetite. It is important to check/monitor weight as well as any weight loss would not be normal in these cases.

Without knowing what you are offering him, it would be hard to say if it is an issue or not. If you are trying to feed hard or solid food, moistening it with water or a bit of kitten milk replacer and making a slurry may make it easier for Croissant to eat (and know what it is). Wet food can also be easier for a kitten to eat as they teeth. Warming up and moistened food may also make it more enticing. If Croissant continues to refuse to eat even with the changes, seems very lethargic, or is otherwise acting ill, seeking veterinary care in person ASAP is best.