My CHF cat won't eat. How can I help his appetite and nausea?

Question

I am in contact with my vet but am seeking a fresh take/opinion. CHF cat is not eating, is on several heart meds, incl. mirtazapine for a stimulant. It's not working. What am I missing? What could be making him nauseous/not wanting to eat? med side effects? low potassium? potassium supplement? heart failure itself? almost empty stomach for too long? (I have started to syringe feed) meds on an empty stomach? How can I get him to eat? Is gravol ginger safe? I'm at a loss, any thoughts? Thanks. Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 20 lbs

Ana M, DVM · Accepted Answer

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Hank. Here are a couple of my thoughts for you to discuss with his veterinarian. You can try Cerenia which is an anti-nausea medication. Entyce is a new appetite stimulant that may be tried in replace of the mirtazapine. It is only approved for use in dogs, but has been used off label in cats. You can consider switching to a potassium sparing diuretic such as spironolactone which may allow him to come off of the potassium supplement. I would avoid the ginger at this point and try other options as there is no way to know if it will interfere with his cardiac drugs. I typically try one thing at a time so that I know what is helping. I hope this information helps!

My CHF cat won't eat. How can I help his appetite and nausea?

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