Dry Food is not Chewed in cats
If a cat does not chew dry food, it means that it swallows the food whole or may not eat it at all. This behavior can indicate various health problems or discomforts that prevent the cat from chewing its food properly.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Cats are naturally carnivores whose teeth are specialized for tearing meat and not necessarily for grinding dry food. Nevertheless, healthy cats are able to crush dry food before swallowing it. If a cat does not do this, it could indicate a problem in the tooth or jaw area.
A common reason for a cat not chewing dry food is dental problems. Tartar (calculus), gingivitis, or decayed teeth can cause pain and cause the cat to swallow the food to avoid pain. Broken or loose teeth can also make chewing difficult or painful.
In addition, a jaw injury or inflammation in the mouth and throat can make chewing difficult. In older cats, osteoarthritis in the temporomandibular joint can affect the opening and closing of the mouth, which also leads to chewing problems.
Neurological problems or altered sensory perception that affect chewing can also play a role. In addition, stress or anxiety during feeding can cause cats to eat hastily and not chew the food.
Typical accompanying symptoms
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Bleeding gums: If the cat has dental problems, bleeding gums can occur while eating, which is often recognizable by traces of blood in the food or on the bowl.
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Bad breath: An unpleasant odor from the mouth can indicate tartar (calculus), gingivitis, or other dental problems.
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Refusal to eat: In addition to not chewing, the cat may refuse to eat altogether if it is too painful.
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Weight loss: If the cat eats less or stops eating altogether, it can lead to noticeable weight loss.
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Increased salivation: With dental problems or pain in the mouth, the cat may salivate more.
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Altered eating behavior: The cat may take the food out of the bowl and then drop it or work it with its paw.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the vet is essential if the cat shows signs of pain, such as refusal to eat, weight loss, or bleeding gums. A veterinarian should also be consulted if the cat’s behavior changes noticeably or if other symptoms such as strong bad breath or increased salivation occur.
Especially in older cats, it is important to carry out regular dental check-ups, as dental problems are common in old age. An early visit to the vet can prevent minor problems from developing into serious health problems.
If the cat suddenly stops eating or shows other problems associated with chewing, you should not hesitate to seek professional help to clarify and treat the cause.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
It is important for the pet owner to observe the cat’s behavior closely. Signs such as dropping food, increased salivation, or visible bleeding gums can indicate problems. Likewise, attention should be paid to changes in weight or general behavior that could indicate pain or discomfort.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the mouth, teeth, and gums. If necessary, X-rays can be taken to assess dental health more accurately. Blood tests can also help to rule out other health problems that could affect eating behavior.
In some cases, sedation may be necessary to perform a complete examination of the teeth and oral cavity, especially if the cat is in pain and cannot be kept calm.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
As a first measure, the pet owner can try to adjust the cat’s food. Soft or soaked food may be easier to eat if there are dental problems. Wet food or dry food soaked in water are gentler alternatives.
It is important to observe the cat while it is eating to ensure that it is not having difficulties or showing pain. If the problem persists, it is advisable to consult the veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Preventive measures such as regular brushing of teeth or special dental treats can help to avoid dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups to monitor dental health are also recommended in order to detect and treat problems early on.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.