Why Does My Cat Cover His Food? [Causes & Remedy]

As a cat owner, you may have noticed your feline companion performing curious behaviors around their food, one of the most common being the act of covering their food. It’s a fascinating yet puzzling action that can leave many wondering: why does my cat cover his food? This behavior can vary in intensity and frequency, with some cats actively trying to cover their meals, while others may perform a more subtle version of this act. Regardless, understanding why cats exhibit this behavior is essential in addressing their needs and ensuring they are happy and healthy.

Cats are complex creatures with a rich array of instincts, and their actions often stem from deep-seated, evolutionary behaviors. The act of covering food is linked to survival instincts, territoriality, and comfort. But before jumping to conclusions about why your cat is behaving in this manner, it’s important to recognize that not all instances of food-covering are created equal. Some behaviors may be perfectly normal, while others could indicate stress, anxiety, or health concerns.

In this article, we will delve into the common reasons why cats cover their food, discuss when this behavior may raise red flags, and provide insight into how you can respond as a responsible cat owner. By the end, you’ll be better equipped to understand your feline friend’s needs and what their actions may be trying to communicate.

Why Does My Cat Cover His Food?

To understand why your cat might cover their food, it’s important to first recognize that cats are territorial and instinctively driven to protect what is theirs. In the wild, cats need to ensure that their food is both secure and safe from predators or rival animals. Covering food is often an instinctual behavior designed to hide their resources. This behavior is usually tied to an evolutionary survival mechanism that helps cats avoid drawing attention to their meals.

There are several other potential reasons behind this peculiar behavior, which can vary from cat to cat. It may be a sign of anxiety, boredom, or an attempt to assert dominance over a specific space. It could also be linked to a preference for cleanliness, as cats are known for their fastidious grooming habits. Understanding these various causes requires careful observation and a holistic approach to your cat’s overall behavior and environment.

Common Reasons

1. Instinctual Behavior (Covering to Protect): The most common reason cats cover their food is rooted in their wild ancestors’ survival instincts. In nature, when a cat finds a source of food, they may bury or cover it with dirt, leaves, or other materials to protect it from other animals, be it scavengers or predators. Domesticated cats, despite having a steady supply of food at home, still retain these ingrained survival instincts.

2. Territorial Behavior: Cats are inherently territorial creatures. When they feel that their food or resources are at risk of being taken by another animal, they may cover their meal as a way to signal to others that it belongs to them. This behavior is often seen in multi-cat households where one cat may feel possessive over their food bowl.

3. Hiding Food from View: Some cats cover their food as a way of hiding it from sight. Cats may prefer to eat in private or when they feel secure. Covering food could be their way of keeping it away from the prying eyes of other animals (or even humans) and ensuring their privacy while eating.

4. Cleanliness: Cats are known for their meticulous grooming habits, and they have a strong instinct to maintain cleanliness. Sometimes, the act of covering their food can be linked to an innate desire to keep their eating space tidy. They may cover food remnants or scraps as a way of "cleaning up" the area.

5. Stress or Anxiety: When a cat is stressed or anxious, they may engage in behaviors that provide them with comfort or a sense of control. Covering food might be a coping mechanism in response to changes in the environment, such as a new pet, a new person in the household, or a change in routine. It could also occur if the cat is feeling threatened or insecure about its food supply.

6. Picky Eating or Lack of Appetite: In some cases, a cat may cover its food if it is not hungry or if it is dissatisfied with the meal. Cats are known to be finicky eaters, and covering food might be a sign that they are not interested in consuming it at the moment, but they don’t want to leave it exposed.

When To Be Concerned

While covering food is often harmless and linked to instinctual behaviors, there are times when this action may be a sign of a deeper issue. As a cat owner, it’s essential to monitor the context in which the behavior occurs and any accompanying signs that could indicate a problem.

1. Changes in Eating Habits: If your cat begins covering their food consistently and refuses to eat, it could signal a lack of appetite or dissatisfaction with their food. This could be related to medical issues, such as dental problems, digestive upset, or more serious conditions like kidney disease or hyperthyroidism. A sudden loss of appetite is a red flag that should not be ignored.

2. Signs of Stress or Anxiety: If you notice that your cat is covering their food in combination with other signs of stress (e.g., hiding, excessive grooming, aggression, or changes in litter box habits), it’s possible that they are feeling anxious or overwhelmed. Major changes in the household, such as a move or the introduction of a new pet, can trigger such responses. Prolonged anxiety can lead to behavioral and health problems, so it’s important to address the source of stress.

3. Physical Illness: If your cat’s food-covering behavior is accompanied by other symptoms of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, weight loss, or changes in litter box use, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. These could be signs of underlying health issues that require medical attention.

4. Excessive Food Covering: If your cat begins obsessively covering their food in a way that interferes with their ability to eat or drink, this could indicate a compulsive behavior or a problem with their relationship to food. This is a situation where it’s best to seek professional advice from a vet or animal behaviorist.

How To Respond As A Cat Owner

As a cat owner, your response to your cat’s food-covering behavior will depend on the underlying cause. Here are some ways to approach the situation:

1. Provide a Calm and Secure Environment: If your cat is covering food due to anxiety or stress, one of the first things you can do is work on creating a calming environment. Provide them with a quiet, safe space where they can eat without feeling threatened. A comfortable and consistent routine can also help alleviate stress.

2. Monitor Their Diet: Ensure that your cat’s food is of high quality and meets their dietary needs. Cats can be picky eaters, so experimenting with different food types (wet vs. dry, different flavors, or brands) might encourage them to eat more. If you suspect they are covering their food due to dissatisfaction, try offering a variety of options to see if that improves their eating habits.

3. Use Multiple Feeding Stations: If you have multiple cats and one of them is covering their food in a possessive or territorial manner, you might want to consider providing multiple feeding stations. This can help reduce competition and alleviate stress over food.

4. Observe and Record Behavior: Keep a close eye on any additional changes in your cat’s behavior. Tracking when your cat covers their food, how often it occurs, and any other signs (such as lethargy or changes in grooming habits) will help you provide your veterinarian with valuable information if a medical issue arises.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

If your cat’s food-covering behavior is persistent, or if you notice any concerning signs of illness, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. This is especially important if your cat is displaying any of the following:

• A sudden loss of appetite or a refusal to eat
• Weight loss or a significant change in eating habits
• Signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
• Excessive covering that interferes with their ability to eat or drink
• Unexplained behavioral changes, such as increased aggression or anxiety

A veterinarian will be able to conduct a thorough examination, rule out medical conditions, and offer guidance on how to address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the behavior.

Conclusion

While it’s easy to get confused or concerned when your cat covers their food, most of the time, this behavior is linked to natural instincts or a desire for privacy and cleanliness. Understanding the reasons behind it, whether it’s territoriality, anxiety, or a need to protect resources, is key to ensuring that your cat feels secure and content in their environment.

However, if you observe any other signs of illness or stress, it’s important to take swift action to address potential health problems. With a keen eye and prompt response, you can ensure that your cat remains happy, healthy, and well-fed. Remember, as with all things feline, patience and observation are essential in deciphering their sometimes puzzling behaviors.

FAQs

Why Does My Cat Cover His Food With The Paw?

Cats may cover their food using their paws as a natural instinct to hide or protect their meal. This behavior is inherited from their wild ancestors, who would bury leftover food to prevent attracting predators or scavengers.

Is Covering Food A Sign Of Aggression In Cats?

No, covering food is generally not a sign of aggression. Instead, it is a form of territorial behavior. Cats instinctively try to hide food to mark it as theirs and to protect it from other animals.

Can My Cat Cover His Food Out Of Anxiety?

Yes, some cats may cover their food due to anxiety or stress. If a cat feels insecure or threatened, they might cover their food to ‘save it’ in case they need to return to it later, especially in a multi-pet household.

Do All Cats Cover Their Food?

Not all cats cover their food. This behavior is more common in outdoor or feral cats. Domestic cats may or may not exhibit this behavior depending on their personality, environment, and experiences.

Should I Be Concerned If My Cat Covers His Food?

In most cases, covering food is a normal behavior and not a cause for concern. However, if the behavior is accompanied by signs of stress, aggression, or loss of appetite, it may be worth discussing with a vet.

Can My Cat Be Trying To Save Food By Covering It?

Yes, cats may cover their food as a way to ‘save’ it for later. This behavior is instinctual and stems from their wild ancestors, who needed to secure food for future consumption, especially if they felt unsafe or had limited resources.

Why Does My Cat Only Cover His Food After Eating?

Cats often cover their food after eating to hide any leftovers, signaling that the food is theirs and discouraging other animals from eating it. This behavior can also be a way of avoiding the scent of leftovers attracting predators.

What Should I Do If My Cat Covers His Food Too Much?

If your cat is excessively covering its food, it might be a sign of stress or anxiety. Ensure the cat feels safe in its environment and consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health or behavioral issues.

Can Covering Food Be A Sign Of Dominance In Cats?

While covering food is often linked to territoriality, it is not necessarily a sign of dominance. Cats are naturally territorial, and this behavior may simply be an instinctive way of protecting their resources rather than asserting dominance.

Does My Cat Cover His Food To Hide The Smell From Other Animals?

Yes, covering food may be a way for cats to mask the scent and protect it from scavengers or other animals. In the wild, this would help reduce the risk of attracting predators after a meal.