So, we have all heard of a “finicky” eater, right? In most cases, it applies to kids. But, what do you do if you have a finicky cat on your hands?
Before you run out and start spending hundreds of dollars on specialty cat food, it’s best to take a look at some in-home remedies first. The problem may be as simple as your feeding bowl. Some cat actually has trouble eating from a bowl that is too small or too light.
If the bowl moves too much while a cat is feeding, they may not find it worth the effort to try. Another thing is to change the location of the feeding bowl. We all know how stubborn cats can be. Sometimes they don’t like where their food bowl is placed and the only way to tell you is by simply not using it.
Next, take a look at the situation in which your cat is trying to eat. Do you have a fan blowing directly in that area? Do you have other pets in the house that intimidate your cat while they are trying to eat? A cat may find it difficult to eat from a bowl that is placed too near a heating or air conditioning vent or even a location in the house that is just too busy (like near an entryway where kids are running in and out).
Another thing to consider is how old or “stale” the food may be. If you are like many cat owners, you leave dry food out all the time. It’s worth the time to consider how long that food has been out and in what conditions. During the summer months, the food is exposed to hot and humid conditions more so than it is in the winter months. Food left out in these conditions for an extended period of time may become unappetizing to your cat. It’s also important to note that most cats tend to eat less in warm weather.
Another thing to consider when it comes to a finicky eater is the changing of its food. If you decide to change the brand of food you use, it’s best to do it over a course of several days, mixing a little of the new food in with the old food each day and working your way up to completely changing over to the new brand. Switching the brand cold turkey, so to speak, can leave your cat with an upset stomach and they will most certainly not eat under those conditions.
If you have been feeding your finicky cat a diet of mostly dry food, try giving it a treat of canned food occasionally to whet its appetite. Some older cats start dealing with sore gums or teeth and find that dry food becomes too difficult for them to chew.
It may take a little time and detective work but many times a slight adjustment will get your finicky cat back to its feeding bowl. If you have exhausted all measures, it’s best to have them checked out by a vet to make sure there are no underlying health issues.
Bon appetite!
