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Why does a cat always want to eat: solving the mystery of the insatiable purr
24.08.2024 06:10
Many cat owners face a situation where their pet seems ready to eat constantly.
This phenomenon can be disturbing and confusing.
Why does a cat continue to ask for food despite regular feeding? The reasons can be very different - from physiological to behavioral.
Natural hunter instincts
Cats are predators and hunters by nature. In the wild, they spend a significant portion of the day searching for prey.
Domestic cats have retained these instincts, and constant begging for food may be a manifestation of their hunting behavior.
Even if the cat is full, it may continue to "hunt" for its food bowl or for the owner who fills this bowl.
Improper nutrition
A cat's excessive appetite may be due to an improperly selected diet.
If the food does not contain enough nutrients or is not tailored to the specific needs of the animal, the cat may feel constantly hungry.
It is important to choose high-quality food that is appropriate for the age, lifestyle and health of your pet.
Medical reasons
Constant hunger can be a symptom of various diseases. Diabetes, hyperthyroidism, problems with the pancreas or intestines can cause increased appetite in cats.
If your pet suddenly starts eating more than usual, especially if this is accompanied by weight loss or other symptoms, you should contact your veterinarian.
Stress and anxiety
Cats, like people, can "eat away" stress. Changes in the environment, the arrival of a new family member or pet, moving - all this can cause anxiety in a cat, which it tries to compensate for with food.
In such cases, it is important to create a calm and comfortable atmosphere for your pet.
Age-related changes
As cats age, their eating habits may change. Some older cats begin to eat more, perhaps because they are less efficient at absorbing nutrients.
However, changes in appetite in older dogs can also be a sign of illness, so it is important to consult with your veterinarian.
Boredom and lack of activity
Indoor cats, especially those that don't go outside, can suffer from a lack of physical and mental activity.
As a result, they may turn to food as a form of entertainment. It is important to provide your cat with plenty of toys and to spend time playing with them.
Habit and manipulation
Some cats ask for food not because they are hungry, but because they are used to receiving their owner's attention in this way.
Cats quickly learn to manipulate their owners, and if begging results in the desired outcome (food or attention), they will repeat the behavior.
Incorrect feeding regime
Infrequent but large feedings can cause your cat to feel hungry between meals.
Many veterinarians recommend feeding adult cats small meals several times a day to help maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevent extreme hunger.
