If you’re a cat owner, you know they have their quirks and preferences. One minute they’ll sniff their food and walk away, the next they’re back for a nibble. And then there’s the scratching – on furniture, door frames, and sometimes, seemingly inexplicably, cats can scratch the floor around their food bowl. It can look like they’re trying to bury something. But why do they do this peculiar little dance?
Actually, this behavior can tell you quite a bit about your cat’s state of mind, their natural instincts, or even potential issues worth addressing. Here are some of the most common reasons behind this scratching ritual:
Common Reasons for Scratching Around the Food Bowl:
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The Instinct to Hide Leftovers or Mask Scents:
In the wild, cats are predators who hunt their prey. After eating part of their catch, they often try to bury the remains to avoid attracting larger, more dangerous predators. Even our pampered house cats can have this instinct kick in, attempting to “bury” uneaten food or mask its scent. They’ll scratch at the floor or a nearby rug as if trying to cover something up with dirt or leaves. It’s a fascinating glimpse into their ancestral behaviors.
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Protecting Their Kittens:
If you have a female cat who has recently given birth, she might be extra vigilant about the safety of her nest. This can extend to trying to “disguise” the smell of food, which could potentially attract threats to her vulnerable kittens. While it might seem amusing in a modern kitchen setting, this protective instinct is deeply ingrained.
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Your Cat Might Be Overfed:
If your feline friend consistently leaves food in their bowl and then proceeds to “bury” it, it could be a signal that the portions you’re serving are too large. An excess of food not only triggers this burying behavior but can also lead to digestive issues and even obesity. Consider reducing the portion sizes or feeding them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This is healthier for them in the long run.
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Creating a Clean Eating Zone:
Cats are naturally very tidy animals. If there’s spilled food, crumbs, or general messiness around their feeding area, your furry companion might try to “sweep” it away by scratching with their paws. They’re essentially trying to create a more comfortable and clean space for their meal. This is particularly common if the feeding area is close to their litter box or other things they might find unpleasant.
How to Discourage Scratching Around the Food Bowl:
First and foremost, avoid scolding or punishing your cat. This is often instinctual behavior, and punishment can just make them anxious and worsen the situation. Instead, try adjusting their feeding environment and routine:
- Offer Smaller Portions: If your cat finishes their food completely, there won’t be any “leftovers” to bury. Try feeding them smaller meals several times a day rather than one large serving.
- Remove the Bowl After Meals: Once your cat has finished eating, simply take away the food bowl, especially if there’s still some food remaining. This reduces the urge to “hide” the leftovers. Plus, it helps maintain cleanliness and prevent bacteria growth.
- Feed Cats Separately: If you have multiple cats, they might feel a sense of competition for food. One cat might be trying to hide their food from another. In this case, it’s best to feed them in separate rooms or at least a good distance apart.
Your cat can scratch the floor around their food bowl, it’s not unusual and certainly not a reason to panic. In most cases, this behavior stems from natural instincts or a simple desire for tidiness. Observe your beloved pet, pay attention to their feeding habits and the comfort of their eating area, and your purrfect pal will be happy and well-fed!