Symptom triage · dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, small pets and reptiles
Not eating
Stopped eating, or a marked reduction in appetite
Quick answer
Guides for not eating
Dogs
Why Is My Dog Not Eating?
A dog skipping one meal is not always serious, but **refusing food for 24 hours** — especially with vomiting, lethargy or abdominal pain — needs a vet check.
Cats
Cat Not Eating? Causes and When to Call a Vet
When a cat stops eating, take it seriously.
Rabbits
Why Is My Rabbit Not Eating?
A rabbit that stops eating or passing droppings is a **veterinary emergency in the UK**.
Birds
Bird Care in the UK
Good pet bird care starts with a **diet matched to the species**, room to move and forage, a safe enclosure, and a vet who treats birds.
Reptiles
Reptile Care in the UK: Setup, UVB and Health
A healthy reptile setup starts with the **needs of the species you keep**: enough space and cover, a measured warm-to-cool temperature gradient, appropriate UVB and humidity, clean water and the right food.
Small pets
Guinea Pig Care in the UK
Guinea pigs need **constant good-quality hay, a daily source of vitamin C, compatible company and a roomy, sheltered home**.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is not eating an emergency in pets?
- It needs same-day attention but is not usually life-threatening. Call your vet today; if signs worsen or new red-flag symptoms appear, treat it as an emergency.
- Which pets does not eating affect?
- This triage topic applies to dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, small pets and reptiles. If your pet shows these signs, use the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker for instant triage or phone your vet.
- What should I do right now?
- PETHEALTH+ rates this as urgent — call your vet today for a same-day appointment. The guides linked on this page explain likely causes and what your vet may suggest. Information only, not a diagnosis.
Not sure how urgent it is?
Answer two questions and the free PETHEALTH+ symptom checker will tell you whether to phone a vet now, today, or monitor at home.