Top Tips to Combat Fussy Cat Eating Habits

Understanding Why Cats are Picky Eaters

Frequent Changes in Diet

Many cat owners believe that offering their feline friends a variety of foods will ensure they find something they love. However, this constant rotation of cat food can create a mindset in cats that if they don't eat, there might be something better waiting. This often leads to picky eating habits.

Overindulgence in Canned Treats and Meat

Canned treats are packed with flavor enhancers that cats find irresistible. While they may enjoy these snacks, they can diminish the appeal of regular cat food. The more canned treats a cat consumes, the more likely they are to be picky eaters.

Feeding Human Food

Human food often contains seasonings that can make a cat's taste buds accustomed to a more intense flavor. This can lead to a loss of interest in dry cat food over time.

Unrestricted Snack Feeding

Cat owners often spoil their pets with snacks without limits, which can lead to cats overindulging in treats and losing interest in their regular cat food.

Improving Your Cat's Eating Habits

Maintain an Appetite

Set a regular feeding schedule for your cat and stick to it. Don't give in to the temptation to feed them outside of their designated meal times. This will help your cat maintain an appetite for their meals, thus addressing the issue of pickiness.

Exercise to Burn Energy

Engage in playtime with your cat to help burn off excess energy. Exercise is a great way to stimulate appetite, and since cats have a natural hunting instinct, they often play before they eat. Consider using a laser pointer or a feather toy before mealtime to get your cat in the mood to eat.

Blending Foods

Incorporate some of your cat's favorite treats into their regular meals to boost their appeal. If your cat is not fond of their current cat food, you can mix in some of their preferred food. Gradually reduce the amount of the mixed food over time, until your cat is happily eating their pure cat food.