Cats not eating...

Question
I currently have two adult cats, one about 8 and one nearly 2 and two new kittens. The two adults arent eating, which is so unlike them, they are normally fighting over the food. I dont know if this is because of the new kittens or whether its because we've not long lost a member of our cat family. The two adult cats dont tend to be very people friendly, they're quite independent and unless they want a cuddle they wont really interact with us much so they're behaviour hasnt changed much. Both cats are still catching and eating mice (they're guts are all over my garden) and both seem to be trying they're hardest to get to the kitten food so they both still have an appetite. I havent changed they're food at all. Im just worried they're still upset about the new kittens, they've been here about a week. Are they genuinely distressed or just having a bit of a cop??

Answer
Heather,

If your cats were not eating at all my advice would be an immediate trip to the vet, because contrary to popular belief a cat can do serious harm to themselves by not eating regularly. The stress and the loss of a family member could certainly be a contributing factor to a difference in appetite as can the new kittens. The temporary stress of the addition of the kittens should resolve itself within a week or two. Grieving for a family member may take longer. As long as they are not obese I see no harm short term in allowing them to have the kitten food that they seem to want. You will need to watch them very carefully to ensure that they are getting adequate food, because a change in appetite could be a sign that something is wrong. Sometimes it is a simple as constipation or a fur ball, in which case you can either give them each a teaspoon or so of butter or margarine or if you don't like that idea commercially prepared hairball remedies are available at most pet stores, just be sure to follow the dosing instructions on the package. My advice as of now is to try the hairball remedies mentionned and see if their appetites improve. If they don't improve after several days (no more than a week)have your vet examine them to be sure all is well.
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.