7 Possible Reasons Your Cat is Suddenly Eating Human Food
Curiosity about new smells and tastes
Cats have a keen sense of smell, and new aromas can be incredibly enticing to them. This curiosity is a natural behavior, stemming from their instinct to explore and identify new potential food sources. When they encounter human food, which often has stronger and more varied scents than their own food, they may be driven to taste it. This exploration can lead to a preference for certain new flavors or textures that they don’t get in their regular diet.
Attraction to the high fat or protein content in human food
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a diet high in protein and fat for optimal health. Many human foods, particularly meats and dairy products, are rich in these nutrients and can be more appealing to cats than their own lower-fat, lower-protein kibble. If a cat tastes human food and finds it more satisfying, they may develop a habit of seeking it out due to the higher nutritional content they instinctively crave.
Begging behavior reinforced by being fed from the table
If a cat has ever been fed from the table, it can quickly learn that begging or waiting patiently near humans during meal times can result in tasty rewards. This learned behavior is reinforced every time they receive a morsel, making them more likely to continue the behavior. Additionally, the social aspect of eating with their human family can reinforce this begging behavior, as it becomes both a habit and a bonding experience.
Hunger or an insufficient diet
If a cat’s diet is not meeting its nutritional needs, it may seek other food sources. This hunger-driven behavior can lead cats to investigate and consume human food in an attempt to satisfy their dietary requirements. Furthermore, if their feeding schedule is irregular or they are not being fed enough, they may be more driven to find other foods to satisfy their hunger.
Mimicking human behavior
Cats are very observant and may mimic the behavior of their owners. If they see their humans eating, they might want to try what’s on the plate, too. This is not just about food; it’s also about participating in the social routine. Cats may not understand what eating means to humans, but they do understand that it’s a focus of activity and might want to be included.
Opportunistic feeding habits
Cats are opportunistic feeders by nature, which means if there’s an easy meal available, they are likely to take it. This is why leaving human food unattended can be an open invitation for a cat to take a taste. Their survival instincts drive them to take advantage of available food sources, and this includes any unguarded human food they come across.
Seeking variety or stimulation beyond their regular cat food
Just like humans, cats can get bored with the same food every day. They might seek out human food as a way to add some excitement to their diet. This desire for variety can lead them to be interested in different textures, tastes, and smells that they don’t encounter in their own food. In the wild, a cat’s diet would be more varied, and this instinct can drive them to seek out new food experiences.
Also Read: Can Humans Eat Cat Food?
Tips to Stop your Cat from Eating Human Food
- Keep Human Food Out of Reach: Store food in sealed containers and ensure leftovers are immediately cleared away to remove the temptation.
- Never Feed Cats from the Table: Consistently avoid giving your cat table scraps to prevent the reinforcement of begging behavior.
- Provide a Balanced Diet: Feed your cat a nutritious, vet-approved diet that satisfies their dietary needs, reducing their urge to seek out human food.
- Establish a Feeding Routine: Have specific times for your cat’s meals to create a routine, which can diminish their interest in your eating times.
- Use Puzzle Feeders for Cats: These can keep your cat stimulated and entertained, decreasing their interest in human food by making their own meals more engaging.
- Provide Attention During Your Meals: Give your cat attention or toys during your meal times to distract them from the food on your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
What human foods are safe for cats?
Cats can safely eat small amounts of cooked lean meats like chicken, turkey, and beef, which are stripped of fatty portions and bones. Cooked eggs and certain vegetables like carrots or green beans can also be given in moderation. However, these should only be supplements to a diet primarily made up of food formulated specifically for cats.
What human foods must never be given to cats?
Cats should never be given onions, garlic, chocolate, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, grapes, raisins, the artificial sweetener xylitol, or foods high in salt and fat. These can be toxic or lead to health issues like obesity and heart disease.
How do I stop my cat from begging for food at the table?
To discourage begging, never feed your cat from the table or during your mealtime. Provide them with their own meals before you sit down to eat, and ignore begging behavior consistently. You can also provide a distraction during your meals, such as a new toy or placing the cat in another room with some of their favorite activities.
Should I see a vet if my cat begs for human food?
Begging for human food in itself is not typically a reason to see a vet, as it’s usually a learned behavior; however, if your cat’s begging is accompanied by sudden weight loss, changes in appetite, or other signs of illness, it would be wise to consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues.
Why does my cat try to bury her food?
Your cat might be trying to bury her food due to instinctual behavior. In the wild, cats bury their food to hide it from predators or to save it for later, and this instinct can persist even in domesticated cats.