Why won’t my kitten eat?

A kitten not eating may be due to pickiness, failure to adjust to a new environment, or illness. First, frequent treats and canned food can cause picky habits; mix treats into kibble and gradually reduce them.

Second, a newly arrived kitten may be too nervous to eat or drink and will usually start within 2 to 3 days. Finally, drooling or red gums may indicate stomatitis pain; lethargy, fever, vomiting, or diarrhea suggest other diseases requiring veterinary care.