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My cat is always hungry and breaking into cabinets. Is he sick?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 7.3 lbs

My cat always begs for my food when I'm eating. Not only that but he breaks into cabinets, climbs on the counter and knocks the trash over looking for food. He has even broken into the cabinet and eaten a huge amount of his kitten food, and I had to take him to the vet because he was puking. We have child locks on our cabinets now. He drinks and uses the litter box regularly, and has no other off behavior. I feed him twice a day and follow the instructions on the bag. What could this be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Menolly Cote, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on June 15th, 2017

While some cats exhibit bad behavior by getting into food, an excessive appetite can also be indicative of a health problem such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism. I would recommend having him examined by your veterinarian and discuss other signs of these diseases such as weight loss or changes and drinking habits. Your veterinarian may recommend blood work to further screen for these diseases. If Phoenix is otherwise healthy this could just be a behavior problem. If this is the case you have taken the first step by limiting his access to the food items. Providing enrichment for him on a daily basis may help as well. This can be done by using puzzle toys to provide his meals as well as using a laser pointer other toys to encourage exercise. There are other options for deterring unwanted behavior such as a scat mat but this type of deterrence only works if used consistently and in all locations.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on March 29th, 2019
Some cats become food obsessed but it's hard to know if this is medical or behavioral since Rajah can't talk. If he hasn't been to the veterinarian since you've noticed the behavior to have his blood sugar and thyroid levels checked, I recommend to get this done. Abnormalities could indicate thyroid disease or diabetes which can increase the appetite.
Otherwise you may try feeding him from an automatic feeder and feeding him a high fiber diet food. The automatic feeder will control how much and how frequently he is fed. Royal Canin makes a diet called Satiety Support which is excellent for cats who are obsessed with food. It is low calorie and most cats like the taste so they can eat a lot of it and maintain a good weight. You may also try using a kibble dispensing ball as this will give Rajah mental and physical activity. Try incorporating a daily play session and interactive toys which may help him to have other interests. Best of luck and please feel free to post any additional questions.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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