If your cat is a fussy eater, then don’t worry, because they have a reputation for being extremely finicky. In truth, this behaviour is generally learned and not bred into them.
You may think your cat wants or requires variety in their diet but in actual fact, she will happily eat the same food everyday for all of her life provided it is a nutritious meal.
Slowly, slowly
What may seem like finicky eating may just be your cat taking her time. Many cats are nibblers and prefer to have a mouthful of food now and again. Just because she doesn’t eat the whole bowl right away doesn’t mean she doesn’t like the food.
My cat's not eating enough
Your cat may be avoiding her food because she’s getting extra treats somewhere else. If you treat your cat a lot or feed her scraps from the table, you need to stop. Your cat will complain for a while but eventually she’ll understand that the only food she’s going to get is from her bowl.
Try to make sure no one else is treating the cat – either in your household or in the neighbourhood. It only takes one person to change how your cat expects to get her food.
If you tried giving your kitten several different foods to see which she preferred, you may find that by the time she grows up. you have given her the impression that you’ll always do this. If you’re opening multiple cans of food and trying to coax your cat into eating something every meal, then your cat has got you trained.
Tasty Tips
Here’s a very effective way to train your cat to eat only what you want her to eat:
- Put out the food you want your cat to eat for half an hour.
- If she doesn’t eat it, take it away.
- Repeat until she eats.
After a day or two of this your cat may start howling for extra treats. Don’t give in. Your cat isn’t starving; she’s just using her charms to get what she wants. You may have to put up with a couple weeks of complaining, but this treatment will soon put a stop to fussy eating.
Switching to a new food
If you’re changing your cat’s food you should do it gradually. Start by mixing a little of the new food with her regular food, gradually increasing the amount until only the new food is fed.
When to call the vet
If your cat suddenly becomes very finicky after not previously displaying that kind of behaviour, or appears to be losing weight you should talk to your vet. Sometimes behaviour that appears fussy can be caused by an underlying medical reason like a dental problem, a digestive upset or hairballs.
Related products
Sterilised Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Sterilised Cat Dry Food with Salmon is specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology. It is a precisely balanced nutrition, tailored to meet the needs of sterilised cats, to help keep sthem lean & healthy.
Senior Vitality Mature Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Senior Vitality Cat Food with Chicken & Rice provides precisely balanced nutrition that helps promote their everyday ability to get up and go.
CULINARY CREATIONS ADULT CAT FOOD
Hill's Science Plan CULINARY CREATIONS Adult cat food with Salmon & Carrots was formulated to provide a great-tasting experience to cats. Its delicious flavour and texture are combine with essential nutrients to support cats' optimal health during the prime time of their life. Specially formulated with high-quality salmon protein, essential taurine for heart health & balanced minerals to support kidneys & bladder.
Adult Cat Food
Hill's Science Plan Adult Cat Food with Chicken is a complete pet food, specially formulated with ActivBiome+ Multi-Benefit Technology.
This food is specially formulated to fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life.
Related articles
Cat Allergic Dermatitis: Causes & Treatments
Learn about the causes of cat dermatitis, how to spot the symptoms and the best treatment options. Visit Hill's Pet for detailed guidance and tips.
Helping a Cat with Sensitive Skin
Cats with sensitive skin have special needs and even healthy cats can sometimes develop poor skin health. Learn more about sensitive skin symptoms in your cat, what you can do to help your pet feel more comfortable and get recommendations on sensitive skin cat food.
Cat Poo: A Comprehensive Guide
Learn how your cat's poo can be a good indicator of her overall health, including how to spot unhealthy or abnormal cat poop and what it might mean.
Skin Problems to Watch for in Your Cat
Understand common skin issues in cats and how to manage them effectively. Learn signs and prevention, and get care tips. Find out more at Hill's Pet.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.