Introduction
The sight is familiar to many cat owners: a feline companion, seemingly displeased with its meal, meticulously pawing at the floor around its food bowl, attempting to bury or cover its food. It might seem peculiar to us, but this behavior, often called “covering” or “burying,” is a common occurrence that prompts questions and curiosity from cat lovers everywhere. Why does my cat do this? Is it a sign of a problem? Or is it just a quirky cat thing? This article delves into the reasons behind this intriguing behavior, exploring the underlying instincts, potential causes, and providing insights into how to understand and address it.
Instinctual Behavior and Ancestry
Our furry companions have a fascinating history, a lineage that extends back to wild ancestors. To truly comprehend why a cat trying to cover food is so deeply ingrained, we must travel back in time to their evolutionary roots. The instincts of a wild cat are heavily driven by the need to survive. Food is, of course, essential, but the availability of food can be inconsistent.
This behavior is intricately linked to those hunting and survival instincts. In the wild, after a successful hunt, cats often consumed what they needed immediately, but any surplus became a precious resource. Covering or burying food was a practical tactic to preserve the remnants of a meal. This served multiple purposes. Firstly, it hid the scent of the food from potential scavengers, such as other predators or even unwelcome insects. It ensured that the valuable protein source wouldn’t be stolen. Secondly, it allowed the cat to return to the food later, providing a meal at a more convenient time. The burying act also protects the food from exposure to the sun, helping prevent it from spoiling. Essentially, it was a form of food storage.
Now, think about our domestic cats. While they may not be facing the same challenges as their wild counterparts, these deeply rooted instincts persist. Even though your pampered pet has a constant supply of kibble and a fresh bowl of water, that ancient programming still influences its behavior. The act of trying to cover food is a vestige of these survival strategies, a reminder of the hunter in every house cat, even though their modern lifestyle is far removed from the constant need to find the next meal. Understanding this connection is the first step toward understanding why your cat trying to cover food.
Reasons for Covering Food: Exploring the “Why”
There are several reasons why a cat might try to cover its food, and they’re not always as straightforward as simply disliking the food itself. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for appropriate management, and potentially, even stopping the behavior.
Food Quality/Taste
Sometimes, the answer lies right in the food bowl. A cat trying to cover food might simply be expressing a dislike for the food presented to them. This could be due to various factors related to the food itself, such as the flavor, texture, or smell. Cats have discerning palates, and what appeals to one cat might be completely unappealing to another. The best way to determine if this is the root cause is to experiment. Try switching to a different brand or a different flavor. Try different textures, too. Some cats prefer dry food, while others enjoy wet food, or even a combination of both.
Beyond personal preference, food quality plays a significant role. Food that has gone bad, even slightly, is likely to be rejected. Check the expiration date on the food packaging. The food may have changed texture. It might not smell as fresh or as enticing as it should. Always make sure your cat’s food is stored properly, in an airtight container to prevent spoilage and maintain its flavor and freshness.
Food Bowl and Environment
The food bowl itself and the immediate surroundings can influence a cat’s behavior. A cat trying to cover food might be reacting to its environment rather than the food itself. Consider the bowl’s cleanliness. Is it washed regularly? A dirty bowl can carry lingering food smells and bacteria, discouraging the cat from eating. Invest in high-quality food bowls that are easy to clean and are made of non-toxic materials.
The location of the food bowl is also vital. Is it in a busy area where the cat feels constantly disturbed? Or is it placed near the litter box? Cats are fastidious creatures and dislike eating near where they eliminate. If the feeding location is causing anxiety, your cat may express its displeasure by trying to cover its food. Create a calm and quiet feeding area. Consider moving the bowl to a more private location where the cat feels secure and can eat without interruption or a sense of being threatened.
Resource Guarding
Resource guarding is a common behavioral trait in many animals, including cats. If your cat trying to cover food, it could be an attempt to protect their food from another pet, or a perceived threat, or perhaps even from you. This behavior stems from a strong instinct to secure a valuable resource. If there are multiple cats in your household, competition for food can be a significant factor. The cat may feel the need to “hide” its food to prevent other cats from stealing it.
The root of resource guarding can also stem from past experiences. If a cat has previously experienced scarcity, they may be more likely to guard their food, even if they are currently in a stable environment. In such cases, providing separate feeding areas and bowls for each cat is essential. Keep a watchful eye on interactions during mealtimes. If you notice any aggressive behavior, consult a veterinarian or a certified cat behaviorist.
Anxiety and Stress
Anxiety and stress can also manifest in a variety of unusual behaviors in cats. Cats are highly sensitive creatures, and any change in their environment or routine can trigger stress. If your cat trying to cover food, it might be a manifestation of that underlying anxiety. Perhaps something has happened that has associated the food with a negative experience.
The best way to approach stress-related behavior is to create a calming environment. Ensure your cat has access to plenty of safe and comfortable resting places. Provide interactive toys and opportunities for play and enrichment to help alleviate boredom and stress. Feliway diffusers, which release synthetic feline pheromones, can help to create a more calming environment. If the anxiety seems severe or persistent, seek guidance from a veterinarian, as they may be able to recommend behavioral modification techniques or medication.
Medical Issues
Though less common, it’s worth mentioning that certain medical conditions may contribute to a cat covering its food. While the act of covering food itself is rarely a direct symptom of a medical problem, changes in appetite or eating habits are. Difficulty eating due to dental pain, or other mouth discomforts, might make a cat less enthusiastic about their food. If the behavior is sudden, accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, weight loss, or changes in litter box habits, it is always wise to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical causes. This is especially true if the behavior starts suddenly.
Solutions and Tips for Pet Owners
The solutions to a cat trying to cover food depend on the underlying cause. This is why observation and thoughtful experimentation are crucial.
Assessing Food Quality and Choice
If you suspect the issue lies with the food itself, start by exploring different options. Experiment with different brands, flavors, textures, and even food types (wet vs. dry). It might take some trial and error to find a food your cat truly enjoys. Don’t be afraid to read the ingredients and nutritional information. A higher-quality food with fewer fillers and more meat-based protein might be more appealing and digestible for your cat.
Making sure that food is fresh and stored correctly is also essential. Discard any food that is past its expiration date or shows signs of spoilage. Store dry food in airtight containers to maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming stale. For wet food, make sure you store the opened can in the refrigerator, and discard the leftover food after a reasonable period.
Improving the Feeding Environment
Creating a positive feeding environment is another critical step. Always keep your cat’s food bowl clean, and provide water nearby, in a fresh, clean bowl, too. Choose a feeding location that is quiet, safe, and easily accessible. Avoid placing the bowl near the litter box or in a high-traffic area. If you have multiple cats, provide separate feeding areas to minimize competition and resource guarding. Some cats may prefer to eat alone, away from other pets.
Addressing Resource Guarding
If you suspect your cat is resource guarding, consider separating feeding areas so each cat feels safe and has access to their food. Observe mealtime interactions carefully, and intervene if necessary to prevent any aggressive behavior. If the resource guarding is persistent, consider seeking professional help. A veterinary behaviorist or a certified cat behavior consultant can assess the situation and provide tailored recommendations.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety
To help reduce stress and anxiety, create a predictable routine. Provide plenty of opportunities for play and exercise. Ensure your cat has access to scratching posts, climbing structures, and other forms of enrichment. Consider using pheromone diffusers. If your cat is displaying signs of anxiety, such as hiding or changes in litter box habits, consult your veterinarian. They can rule out any medical causes and offer advice on stress management techniques.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
There will come a time when you should seek professional advice. If your cat trying to cover food is a new behavior, if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, such as a change in appetite, lethargy, vomiting, or weight loss, it’s wise to schedule a visit with your veterinarian.
When a cat develops this behavior suddenly, especially if they have always been a good eater, it’s a signal that something may be wrong. If they are showing other physical signs of illness, such as vomiting or diarrhea, the vet is the best option. They will be able to perform a physical examination and potentially conduct diagnostic tests to identify any underlying medical conditions.
Conclusion
Understanding why your cat trying to cover food is a journey of observation and empathy. The behavior is a complex interplay of instinct, environment, and personal preference. By carefully observing your cat’s behavior, experimenting with different solutions, and seeking professional help when needed, you can help your feline companion feel secure, content, and well-nourished. Remember that cats are individuals, and what works for one may not work for another. Patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt will be the keys to understanding your cat’s unique behavior.
