Cats can be notoriously picky eaters, making mealtime a challenge for many pet owners. If your feline is turning their nose up at their food, it can be frustrating, especially when you want to ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need. With a few simple tips, you can encourage your picky eater to enjoy their meals and maintain a healthy diet with the right cat food.
Offer a variety of flavours and textures
One of the easiest ways to entice a picky cat is to provide a variety of flavours and textures. Some cats may prefer wet food over dry, or vice versa, while others might have a preference for specific flavours, such as chicken, fish, or beef. Experiment with different types of food to see what your cat likes best. Introducing a mix of pâté, shredded, and chunks in gravy could also appeal to their sense of texture, keeping mealtime exciting.
Gradually transition foods
If you’re changing your cat’s food, do so gradually to prevent them from rejecting it altogether. Start by mixing small amounts of the new food with their current food, gradually increasing the new food over a period of 7–10 days. This slow transition gives your cat time to adjust to the new flavour and texture, reducing the chances of them turning away from it due to sudden changes.
Warm up the food
Cats’ noses are highly sensitive, and warming up their food can make it more aromatic and enticing. Try heating wet cat food for a few seconds in the microwave to release its natural scents, which may encourage your cat to dig in.
Stick to regular feeding times
Picky eaters can benefit from a consistent feeding schedule. Rather than leaving food out all day, try offering meals at the same times each day. Cats thrive on routine, and having a set time for meals can help them associate food with positive experiences. If your cat doesn’t eat right away, remove the food after 20–30 minutes to avoid encouraging grazing, and offer it again at the next scheduled mealtime.
Monitor portion sizes
Sometimes, picky eating can stem from overfeeding or offering too many snacks throughout the day. Stick to appropriate portion sizes for your cat’s age and weight. If they have free access to treats or additional food, they may lose interest in their main meals.
