How do I get my cat to stop begging for food?
Tips for Curbing Your Cat’s Begging for Food
Cats can be persistent and persistent might not be a strong enough word to describe how persistent they can be when it comes to begging for food. It’s never a good idea to give your cat people food or to give into their begging as this only reinforces the behavior and can be bad for their health. Here are a few tips to help you put a stop to your cat’s begging and encourage them to behave better.
Clearly Show Your Cat What’s Off-Limits
If your cat is constantly begging for food, it may help to show them what’s off-limits. Clearly point out to them which foods are meant for people and not for cats. If they attempt to beg for those foods, firmly let them know that it’s a no-go.
Provide Stimulation and Offer Playtime
If your cat is bored, they may utilize begging as an entertaining activity. Providing plenty of stimulating activities and toys as well as regular playtime is an effective way to redirect their attention away from begging. This will give them something else to focus on that is also much healthier and safer than begging.
Say “No” Whenever They Beg
It’s important for your cat to understand that what they are doing is wrong. Whenever your cat begs for food, firmly let them know it’s not acceptable and you will not be giving into their demands by saying “no”. Be consistent with this and your cat will eventually understand that begging for food is not something acceptable for them to do.
Keep Unattended Food out of Reach
Finally, it’s important to make sure that any food that is out in an open area is kept out of reach from your cat. As cats are very clever and resourceful creatures, they will do whatever they have to in order to get their paws on any food they see. Try to keep food stored away and out of their reach so they don’t have any incentive to beg.
Takeaways
- Clearly show your cat what’s off-limits
- Provide stimulation and offer playtime
- Say “no” whenever they beg
- Keep unattended food out of reach
Following these tips will help you to discourage your cat from begging for food and encourage them to behave better. With a bit of patience and consistency, you can show your cat that begging for food is never the right thing to do.
