Understanding Your Cat’s Eating Habits
What your cat’s mealtime behaviours really mean – and how to support their health.
Cats are creatures of habit, and their eating behaviours can tell you a lot about their health, preferences, and natural instincts. Whether your cat is a grazer or a gobbler, understanding their eating habits helps ensure they get the nutrition they need to stay happy and healthy.
Grazers vs. meal eaters
Grazers prefer to eat small amounts of food throughout the day. This behaviour mimics their wild instincts of catching multiple small prey items rather than one large meal.
Meal eaters prefer scheduled mealtimes, eating their food in one or two sittings per day. This can be easier for weight management and routine.
Which is better?
Both styles are natural, but for indoor cats prone to weight gain, controlled mealtimes can help manage calorie intake. If you free-feed (leave food down all day), ensure you’re measuring portions carefully to avoid overfeeding.
Why does my cat beg for food?
Begging can happen for many reasons:
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Genuine hunger, especially if they’re on small portions
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Boredom or seeking attention
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Learned behaviour if they’re rewarded with food when begging
✅ Tip: Try food puzzles or feeder trees to turn begging into hunting-style enrichment, satisfying their instincts and slowing down eating.
Why does my cat only eat some of their food?
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They may dislike the flavour or texture
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The food could be stale – always store food in airtight containers
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Dental issues can make certain kibble shapes uncomfortable to eat
If refusal continues despite trying different foods, consult your vet to rule out underlying health problems.
Why does my cat wake me up early for food?
Cats are crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk. If early wake-ups become disruptive:
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Feed them later in the evening
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Use an automatic feeder to deliver breakfast at set times
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Avoid feeding immediately when they wake you, as it reinforces the behaviour
Should I feed wet or dry food?
Both have benefits:
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Dry food supports dental health (when formulated correctly) and is convenient for free-feeding or puzzles.
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Wet food provides hydration and is highly palatable for fussy cats.
Many owners feed a combination to maximise benefits.
Support your cat’s natural eating habits
Understanding how your cat prefers to eat can help you choose the right feeding routine, products, and foods to keep them healthy and content.
Explore our range of Catit foods, feeders, and fountains to create the perfect mealtime experience for your feline friend.