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My cat won't eat unless I'm near. How can I get him to eat alone?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 1 year and 8 months old | 6.5 lbs

Hi, why my cat don't want to eat without me near? I'm too busy and I don't have a time to watch and pet him while his eating. I've tried different foods but he is still a very finicky eater... And how can I avoid that behavior when I'm going to take care of another kitten? What should I do?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Daniel Fonza, DVM

Answered By Daniel Fonza, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on December 4th, 2017

Hi there and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like Wilkie, much like my cat, is spoiled. I would say that the reason he does this is likely because he loves your company and eating is a great way to make sure that you stay around. If your preferred eating times and where you eat coincide with his, you may not need to do anything about this, as you can just enjoy your time together. There are several ways to get your cat to eat independently. Not all cats will respond to these but I have had a good majority of cats respond well.

1. Continue joining your Wilkie for part of his meal but not all of it. Put his food down and stand over him as you usually do, but walk away before he is finished. If he complains or stops eating, rejoin him and repeat.

2. Slowly pull back and extend the times you are away from him. Leave him alone to ignore his food for about 5 minutes, then 10 and then 15, etc. He probably won't like this but it will not hurt him to temporarily have an irregular eating schedule. Most cats will eventually eat their food when they are hungry.

3. Work on bonding with Wilkie during non-mealtimes. Plan regular play sessions and brushing sessions. Cuddle with him while you read or watch TV. If you are hanging out in a different room, peak your head in periodically and say hello to him and pet him.

I hope this helps! Please let me know if you have any other questions or concerns and I would be more than happy to help you further.
Vote Icon4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 4th, 2017

    Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sorry to hear about Wilkie. I'm pretty sure that if you just leave the food down he will eventually eat. It may take a few days but when Wilkie gets hungry he will eat. Just be patient and don't feel like you need to be right there. Try it. I would hate to see you give up your cat for this reason. Good luck

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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