What will cats eat if you run out of food?

Table of Contents

If you unexpectedly run out of cat food, a cat’s survival instincts kick in, and while they’ll initially try to coax food from you, they may eventually resort to eating whatever they can find, including insects, small rodents, houseplants, and even your scraps.

Introduction: The Feline Foodie in Crisis

What will cats eat if you run out of food? It’s a question no cat owner wants to contemplate, but understanding the potential realities can help you prepare and prevent a feline food emergency. Cats, despite their domesticated nature, retain a powerful survival instinct. While they rely on us for regular meals, a sudden absence of their usual kibble or wet food can trigger a shift in their behavior and dietary choices. This article delves into the desperate measures a hungry cat might take when faced with an empty food bowl, exploring everything from their initial attempts at manipulation to their more primal hunting instincts. We’ll also cover ways to prevent this situation and understand the potential dangers of unconventional cat cuisine.

The Initial Strategy: Manipulation and Meows

Before resorting to extreme measures, your cat will likely employ a range of manipulative tactics to signal their hunger. Expect an increase in:

Meowing: Persistent and often louder than usual.
Rubbing: Weaving around your legs, trying to get your attention.
Staring: Intense, unwavering gazes directed at you, often near the food bowl.
Leading: Guiding you (or attempting to) to the location where food is typically stored.

They are essentially saying, “Hey! I’m hungry! Feed me!” These are their initial attempts to correct the situation using their established communication methods.

Pantry Raids: Exploring Unconventional Options

If the begging doesn’t work, a hungry cat may start exploring your pantry or kitchen for alternative food sources. This could include:

Human Food: Leftovers on plates, scraps in the trash, or even directly from your plate (if they’re bold enough). They may be drawn to meats, fish, or dairy products.
Pet Food (of other animals): Dog food is a common target, though it lacks the essential nutrients cats need. Birdseed or hamster food might also be tempting.
Dry Goods: Surprisingly, some cats will attempt to eat dry pasta, bread, or even cereal.

It’s important to note that many human foods are toxic to cats.

The Hunter Emerges: Prey and Prowling

The primal instincts of a cat are strong, and when truly hungry, they will often revert to hunting. This is especially true for outdoor cats or indoor/outdoor cats.

Small Rodents: Mice, rats, and voles are prime targets.
Birds: Birds are another common prey animal for cats, but especially young birds just learning to fly.
Insects: Flies, moths, crickets, and other insects can become a source of protein.
Reptiles and Amphibians: Lizards, frogs, and snakes, depending on the region, can all become prey.

This behavior highlights the important ecological role cats play as predators, but also introduces the risks of disease and parasites.

Indoor Alternatives: Desperate Measures Inside

Even strictly indoor cats will search for edible items if truly desperate. This can lead to some surprising and potentially dangerous choices:

Houseplants: Many houseplants are toxic to cats. Chewing on them can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even more severe health issues.
String and Yarn: Ingesting string, yarn, or thread can cause intestinal blockages, requiring surgery.
Rubber Bands and Plastic: These items are not digestible and can also cause blockages.
Trash: A scavenging cat might dig through the trash for any scraps of food.

It is imperative to remove these hazards from areas accessible to your cat.

Prevention is Key: Avoiding the Emergency

The best way to ensure your cat never faces starvation is through proactive planning:

Keep a Backup Supply: Always have extra cat food on hand, enough for at least a week.
Automatic Feeders: Consider using an automatic feeder to dispense food at regular intervals, even when you’re away.
Ask a Neighbor or Friend: Arrange for someone to feed your cat if you’ll be gone for an extended period.

Taking these steps minimizes the risk of your cat experiencing food deprivation.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Health Risks

Even if a cat manages to find alternative food sources, they may not be getting the nutrients they need. Prolonged food deprivation can lead to:

Weight Loss: A noticeable decrease in body mass.
Muscle Loss: Weakness and lethargy.
Hepatic Lipidosis (Fatty Liver Disease): A potentially fatal condition that occurs when the body breaks down fat too quickly.
Weakened Immune System: Increased susceptibility to illness.

Consult a veterinarian immediately if you suspect your cat has gone without food for an extended period.

Table: Comparing Potential Food Sources

Food Source	Nutritional Value	Potential Risks
———————-	——————–	—————————————————
Commercial Cat Food	Balanced	None, if fed appropriately
Small Rodents	High Protein	Parasites, toxins, diseases
Insects	Protein, Fat	Pesticide exposure
Human Food	Variable	Toxicity, imbalances, obesity
Houseplants	Minimal	Toxicity
Dog Food	Imbalanced	Nutritional deficiencies over the long term

H3: What To Do If Your Cat Has Eaten Something They Shouldn’t

If you suspect your cat has ingested a potentially harmful substance, take immediate action. Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center. Be prepared to provide information about what your cat ate, when they ate it, and any symptoms they are exhibiting. Do not attempt to induce vomiting without veterinary guidance.

H3: The Importance of a Gradual Transition

If you are switching to a new brand or type of cat food, do so gradually. A sudden change in diet can upset your cat’s digestive system. Mix small amounts of the new food with their old food, gradually increasing the proportion of new food over a week or two. This will help prevent digestive upset and ensure a smooth transition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will my cat starve itself if it doesn’t like the food?

While some cats are picky eaters, a healthy cat will eventually eat if they are truly hungry. However, it’s crucial to rule out any underlying medical conditions that might be affecting their appetite. If your cat refuses to eat for more than 24 hours, consult your veterinarian.

How long can a cat go without food before it’s dangerous?

Generally, a healthy adult cat can go without food for 24-48 hours before it becomes a serious concern. Kittens and elderly cats are more vulnerable and should not go without food for more than 12-24 hours.

Is dog food safe for cats in an emergency?

Dog food is not a suitable long-term substitute for cat food. While it might be okay in a pinch, it lacks the essential nutrients that cats need, such as taurine. Prolonged consumption of dog food can lead to serious health problems.

Are houseplants toxic to cats?

Many common houseplants are indeed toxic to cats. Lilies, for example, are extremely dangerous and can cause kidney failure. Always research plants before bringing them into your home to ensure they are safe for your feline companion.

What are the signs of poisoning in cats?

Symptoms of poisoning in cats can vary depending on the substance ingested, but common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, tremors, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Seek immediate veterinary care if you suspect your cat has been poisoned.

Can cats eat raw meat?

While some owners feed their cats raw meat diets, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of bacterial contamination, such as Salmonella and E. coli. If you choose to feed your cat raw meat, source it from a reputable supplier and handle it carefully.

Is it okay to give my cat milk?

Many adult cats are lactose intolerant and cannot digest milk properly. Giving them milk can lead to digestive upset, such as diarrhea. Water is always the best choice for hydration.

What should I do if my cat won’t eat wet food?

Some cats prefer dry food over wet food. Try warming the wet food slightly to enhance its aroma or offering different flavors and textures. You can also try mixing a small amount of tuna juice or broth into the wet food to make it more appealing.

How can I prevent my cat from eating things they shouldn’t?

Keep hazardous substances, such as cleaning supplies and medications, out of reach. Secure trash cans and keep houseplants inaccessible. Provide your cat with plenty of toys and enrichment to prevent boredom, which can sometimes lead to destructive behaviors.

What is hepatic lipidosis in cats?

Hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, is a serious condition that occurs when a cat’s body starts breaking down fat too quickly, leading to an accumulation of fat in the liver. It is often triggered by a period of anorexia or starvation.

How often should I feed my cat?

Most adult cats benefit from two meals per day, spaced approximately 12 hours apart. However, kittens and cats with certain medical conditions may require more frequent feedings.

What are the essential nutrients that cats need?

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet rich in animal protein. Other essential nutrients include taurine, arachidonic acid, vitamins, and minerals. A high-quality commercial cat food will be formulated to meet these needs.