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Why Cats Eat Only a Little Cat Food: Possible Reasons

20. December 2024
1. Food Storage HabitExcluding the possibility that the cat is simply not hungry after eating too mu

1. Food Storage Habit

Excluding the possibility that the cat is simply not hungry after eating too much, it's likely that your feline friend has a natural instinct to store food. Many animals in the wild, who face challenges in finding sustenance, develop a habit of saving food when it's available. This is a survival mechanism. Moreover, overeating can slow down a cat's movement, so it's instinctive for kittens to eat smaller, more frequent meals.

2. Freshness of Food

Some pet owners tend to leave a large amount of food out for their cats for several days or simply add a portion of fresh food on top of the remaining kibble. This practice can lead to the bottom of the food bowl becoming moldy and spoiled. While it may not seem obvious to us, cats have a highly acute sense of smell and can detect even the slightest hint of spoilage. They may push away the older food, despite it being covered by fresh kibble. Therefore, it's best for pet owners to be diligent and feed their cats fresh portions of kibble multiple times a day. This not only prevents food waste but also safeguards against the cat consuming spoiled food and experiencing stomach upsets.

3. The Size of the Food Bowl

If the cat's food bowl is too deep and narrow, it might be the case that the bowl is pressing against the cat's whiskers, making it difficult for them to reach the food at the bottom. Cats' whiskers are equipped with numerous nerve receptors, and a toonarrow bowl can make eating an uncomfortable experience. Additionally, flatfaced cats may find it particularly challenging to eat from deep, narrow bowls. It's advisable for pet owners to switch their cats to wide, shallow stainless steel bowls to make mealtime more comfortable.

4. Health Concerns

If a cat suddenly starts leaving food uneaten when it previously didn't, it could be a sign of an underlying health issue that's affecting its appetite. Common issues include oral ulcers, gingivitis, loose teeth, which can cause pain and sensitivity when eating. This might lead to a decrease in appetite. Other possibilities include gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting, or respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or feline herpesvirus. If you notice your cat showing signs of decreased appetite or listlessness, it's important to consult a veterinarian promptly for a thorough checkup.

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