She’s five years old now and developed an annoying habit within the past six months.
Until now, she’s eaten her food by herself when hungry, but she’s gotten into the habit of wanting her food to be ‘prepared’.
Basically, I’ll be working at my computer and she’ll come into my computer room, jump up on my desk, sit and meow at me, reach up and touch my leg with her paw, or just sit at the door and stare at me to get my attention.
Then, she’ll lead me to her food and ask me to do prepare it. If I pick up the plate and shake it, or simply move her dry kibbles around with my hand, then dinner’s ready!
So, evidently, the issue isn’t with the food itself. I suspect it’s a social habit, but it’s driving me a bit nutty.
I’ve moved the food bowl into my computer room so she can eat and be social with me, but it isn’t enough, she still wants me to prep her food.
Sometimes she doesn’t even want me to prep her food, simply gesturing to leave the chair will prompt her to begin eating (though sometimes not).
If I ignore her she’ll eventually start eating after a few minutes, but it’s annoying.
If anyone knows a way to break this habit and encourage my daughter to regain her independence and self-autonomy, I’ll be eternally grateful.
I’m speculating here but your cat could be seeing your preparation as assurance that the food is safe for her to eat. By instinct, cats tend to be picky eaters out of concern for eating spoiled food that could result in serious illness. Cats are not scavengers and don’t have the digestive system and metabolism for food that is not fresh. I think cats in colonies may behave the same way with each other to keep themselves safe. If my thought is correct, your cat is trusting your judgement and she may feel okay putting her life in your hands. This could be symbolic of a very strong bond. 😻
Have you tried ignoring it? Sometimes cats are like little kids, trying to get your attention. Maybe if you simply ignore her when she does it and give her extra attention afterwards she drops it!
Good luck!
It’s what I’m doing now. Although it’s really hard sometimes. I’m frequently busy at my computer, and ignoring her means she’ll walk all over my desk and stare at me for a few minutes which is very frustrating.
Obviously I’m trying not to encourage her annoying behaviors, but sometimes I don’t have the time to be patient.
Sounds though! Good luck! :)
Are you feeding in a bowl? I recently read that cats don’t like when their whiskers touch the side of the bowl, so maybe she’s wanting you to make the pile taller. Perhaps try a shallow dish instead if you are using a bowl.
