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Why won't my cat eat after rhinotracheitis, even with stimulants?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 1 year and 3 months old

Hi! My cat has been sick for about 20 days now, and has been diagnosed with rhinotracheitis. So far he's been taken predinisone, antibiotics, appetite stimulants and is more alert than he was before starting the treatment. However, he won't eat. What could be causing that, even with him taking appetite stimulants?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on February 27th, 2018

If he’s still congested he can’t smell the food. Cats often don’t eat well then. You can microwave 8 seconds some fish canned cat food. That will bring out the odor which should help. Also have him in the bathroom when you are taking a hot shower. The humidity may lessen the nasal congestion. The appetite stimulant doesn’t always work. Since he’s improving he should start eating soon. You can hand feed him Hills a/d canned also. Most cats like it and it has lots of calories and is easy to digest. You can purchase it at your veterinarian hospital. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Gregory.

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