Finicky cat? How to deal with a cat that is a picky eater

Got a picky cat? Cats are notorious for their selective eating habits, often leaving owners puzzled as they turn up their noses at carefully chosen meals. This finicky behavior can stem from a range of factors, including medical issues, dietary preferences, sensory changes, or behavioral triggers.

Understanding why a cat may be picky is key to addressing their needs and ensuring their health and happiness. From exploring potential health concerns to tweaking their feeding environment, this guide delves into the reasons behind feline fussiness and offers practical solutions to encourage even the most discerning cat to eat.

Why cats may be finicky

Cats can be picky eaters for a variety of reasons, from medical issues to dietary preferences. Here are some common reasons, but there could be a variety of other reasons. When in doubt, consult a good holistic vet.

Medical issues

A cat may refuse to eat due to various medical issues that cause discomfort or disrupt normal bodily functions. Dental problems, such as tooth pain or gingivitis, can make chewing painful, deterring a cat from eating. Gastrointestinal issues, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or constipation, often reduce appetite by causing discomfort or irregular digestion.

Kidney or liver disease, prevalent in older cats, can alter taste perception or induce nausea, further discouraging food intake. Additionally, infections like upper respiratory infections or systemic pain from other conditions can suppress a cat’s appetite, as the body focuses on fighting illness or managing discomfort.

Dietary preferences

Cats are obligate carnivores with strong preferences for meat-based, high-protein foods. They may simply reject food due to unfamiliar flavors, textures, or low-quality ingredients. One of my cats, Blaze, wouldn’t eat anything but hard food or cheese, or yogurt. He would sniff a steak or some fish but walk away.

Sensory decline

Aging cats may lose smell or taste sensitivity, making food less appealing. In addition, strong odors (e.g., from dirty bowls) can deter them. Be sure to clean their bowl often, especially if you are using wet food.

Behavioral factors

Several behavioral factors can prevent a cat from eating, often tied to their environment, emotions, or instincts.

Stress or anxiety, such as from a new home, unfamiliar people, or loud noises, can make a cat feel unsafe, leading them to avoid their food. Changes in routine, like altered feeding times or a new food bowl location, may disrupt their sense of familiarity and comfort.

Cats are also highly sensitive to food preferences; they may reject food due to a sudden change in brand, flavor, or texture, or if the food is stale or unappealing.

Social dynamics, such as competition with other pets or feeling threatened during meals, can cause a cat to skip eating (or overeat). Additionally, past negative experiences, like nausea associated with a particular food, may lead to food aversion.

Environmental factors, including a dirty food bowl or an uncomfortable feeding area, can further discourage eating. Lastly, cats may refuse food if they’re bored with their diet or engaging in attention-seeking behavior, especially if they’ve learned that refusing food prompts treats or special attention from their owner. Identifying and addressing these factors often requires observing the cat’s environment and behavior closely.

Getting a finicky cat to eat

1. Offer variety: Rotate between wet and dry food, or try different flavors and textures (e.g., pate, chunks, or gravy). Cats can tire of the same food.
2. Warm the food: Slightly warming wet food (~100°F/38°C) enhances its aroma, making it more appealing. If you are using a microwave, avoid microwaving for too long to prevent hot spots. You don’t want to burn your feline companion’s mouth.
3. Change feeding environment: Place the food in a quiet, low-stress area away from litter boxes or high-traffic zones. Some cats prefer elevated surfaces.
4. Experiment with bowls: Use wide, shallow dishes to avoid whisker fatigue. Ceramic or glass bowls are better than plastic, which can retain odors or cause chin acne. Different cats (and dogs) sometimes like different feeding containers. It could simply be the shape.
5. Add incentives: Sprinkle catnip, salt-less broth, or crushed treats on food to entice them. Fortiflora (a probiotic sprinkle) is vet-recommended for stimulating appetite.
6. Feed small, frequent meals: Cats prefer grazing. Offer small portions multiple times a day to mimic their natural eating habits. Each cat is different, so try different things.
7. Try novel foods: Introduce human-grade foods like plain cooked chicken or fish (no seasoning). Transition gradually to avoid digestive upset.
8. Check water intake: Ensure fresh water is available. Some cats prefer running water (fountains) and may eat better if hydrated.
9. Reduce stress: Changes like new pets, moving, or loud noises can affect appetite. Use pheromone diffusers (Feliway) or maintain a consistent routine.
10. Consult a vet: If finickiness persists, rule out medical issues. Bloodwork or dental exams can identify underlying problems. Appetite stimulants like mirtazapine may be prescribed.

Additional considerations

• Monitor weight and behavior: Sudden or prolonged refusal to eat (especially >24-48 hours) can lead to hepatic lipidosis, a serious liver condition. Seek vet care immediately.
• Gradual changes: When switching foods, mix new and old food over 7-10 days to prevent rejection or stomach upset.

Conclusion

While a cat’s finicky eating habits can be frustrating, they often signal underlying issues that can be addressed with patience and care. By considering medical conditions, catering to dietary preferences, adjusting the feeding environment, and reducing stress, owners can help their cats rediscover their appetite.

Persistent pickiness or sudden changes in eating behavior should prompt a visit to a holistic vet to rule out serious health concerns.

With the right approach, even the most particular feline can be coaxed into enjoying their meals, ensuring they stay healthy and content.