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My cat won't eat, hisses, but takes treats. Is it safe to give more?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | unneutered | 3 lbs

My 17 wk old cat stopped eating 2 days ago. He doesnt want to be held or petted anymore. I took him to the vet yesterday, but was told nothing is wrong with him. But he now hisses at us if we come near him. I did notice that though he will not eat, he will take treats. What could be wrong, and is it safe if I give him more treats?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on February 6, 2020

Yes you can give Cocoa more treats, but you need to take him back into a vet now. It's very serious he's not eating, as if a cat goes long enough without eating (72 hours) they will develop a fatty liver. A fatty liver is fatal without treatment, so you want to avoid that. He likely needs medication to stimulate his appetite, blood work, and a urinalysis to diagnose what is causing him to not eat.
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