Study explains why cats leave their food despite still being hungry

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Researchers at Iwate University in Japan have discovered the reason cats sometimes stop eating before finishing their food – and it’s not simply because they’ve had enough.

Most pet owners regularly find themselves switching food brands for their dogs or cats. It’s frustrating when a pet suddenly refuses to eat a food they previously enjoyed.

It’s frustrating when pets start eating, then suddenly decide they don’t want their food. And because they can’t talk, it’s impossible to find out what’s bothering them.

Cats often do this: they start eating, then walk away and come back to their food much later. It’s not usually because they’re no longer hungry, though.

Cats don’t stop eating because they’re full

Recent research from Iwate University suggests that simply introducing a new scent can help cats.

Researchers have discovered that cats sometimes stop eating simply because they get used to the smell of their food, which temporarily makes them less hungry, according to a report by NHK.

During the university’s experiment, twelve cats were given food every ten minutes. When a new smell was introduced with the sixth feeding, the cats started eating again, showing they hadn’t actually been full.

According to Professor Masao Miyazaki of Iwate University, adding a flavorful scent to cat food – even if the taste and nutrition remain the same – can make mealtime more interesting for cats and offer them variety.

“It could also be used to get sick cats that can only eat prescribed food to eat more.”

Cats can safely eat In-N-Out Burger’s Pup Patty, a burger made without salt.

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2026-04-08 15:18