My cat is super finicky

[devilgrrl]

My cat Crow is 12 and I can't get him to eat wet food. He still eats dry food, occasionally I'll feed him baby food or real chicken, he'll nibble a bit but gets bored and won't eat that either. Now, he doesn't seem to be losing weight or anything but he's always begging for food and then won't eat what I put out for him. Hmmmmm. Should I be concerned? Any thoughts?

[demnan]

1. Well, I had cats to live to 17 years old that really preferred dry

I would just make sure it's a good quality dry food and the biggest thing to watch for with an older male cat is the urinary track problem (they develop crystals that obstruct their urinary tract. So if he likes dry food best, try to find one that is best for a senior cat and promotes urinary track health.

I know we do have experts on health issues here and some of the foods provided are great, until you get their advice, I would recommend Purina Urinary Track Health dry food.

Also try to give him a little people food meat if possible because a full time dry food diet is really too high in carbs for a cat, in my opinion. I give mine dry food in the morning and fancy feast canned at night.

[devilgrrl]

2. I have him on the Purina Senior Protection formula...

and do feed him people food meat. One thing I didn't mention was that a few months earlier, we lost his brother/punching bag. Since, he has behaved differently, he seems lonely and depressed and I wonder if that has anything to do with it. :shrug:

Thanks for the feedback. :hi:

[AirmensMom]

3. If you can get him to eat baby food, mix some in with canned food.

I know lots of people here disagree with me, but there is no such thing as a "good quality dry" food. There's a lot of good info at www.catinfo.org, including tips on making the transition from dry. Our Sashka was a dry food addict ... if it's possible to switch her, it's possible to switch any kitty. :hi:

[devilgrrl]

4. Well, he's not exactly a dry food addict, I really think he's depressed.

:-(

[AirmensMom]

5. Depressed? Why?

:( Poor baby! Maybe he doesn't feel good for some reason?

[devilgrrl]

6. He lost his playmate/punching bag a few months back.

They were together for 12 years, I think he misses him. I sure do. :-(

[AirmensMom]

7. Oh, that's too bad.

I thought you were asking about finicky eating ... but he apparently has a reason for not eating.

[demnan]

8. You both will console each other at this time

It isn't easy losing someone close for either of you. But take him up on your lap, give him a hug and just hold him there for a minute longer than he thinks he wants to stay.

Love to both of you. :loveya:

[devilgrrl]

9. Oh yes...

he gets lots of TLC and lap sitting. Some have suggested that I get another cat to keep him company but I live in a small apartment and two were already a handful. So I'll treat him like a king, if only I could figure out what he'd like to eat. :crazy:

[japple]

10. Just give him lots of love. The baby food idea is great.

I've used that very successfully in the past. He will get better soon, esp. if you give him lots of attention. Maybe a massage will help him. Sorry you and he lost your fur buddy. It's sad when one leaves.