Why Does My Cat Lay by the Food Bowl?
Unveiling the Mystery
Cats are indeed mysterious creatures, and there are countless behaviors that leave owners puzzled. One such behavior is the tendency for cats to lay by their food bowl, but why do they do this? This article aims to shed some light on this curious behavior and explore the potential reasons behind it.
Health Indicators
One of the more concerning reasons for a cat laying near the food bowl could be a sign of underlying health issues, particularly related to kidney disease or failure. For instance, an elderly cat named Tom, who we spoke with, had an obsession with water as he aged. The onset of kidney disease or failure can trigger excessive thirst, leading to a cat drinking more water. However, given the extra physical effort, they may feel fatigued and find a comfortable place nearby to rest.
Case Studies
Tom would lie down on his side with his paw resting on the edge of the water bowl, with his chin resting on his paw. To accommodate him, Tom's owner placed an anti-fatigue mat next to his waterer, allowing him to lounge comfortably. Additionally, there was an old broken jacuzzi outside that had accumulated rainwater. Tom would often lie down inside the broken jacuzzi next to this water, indicating his preference for the vicinity around water sources.
Another cat, named Whiskers, also developed a similar behavior. When the cistern in the well shed overflowed, he was found sitting in 3 inches of water. It turned out that Whiskers had a kidney infection. After veterinary care, he continued to prefer being close to water sources, consistently wanting to be near these areas.
Comfort and Convenience
In many cases, the behavior of a cat laying near the food bowl can be attributed to comfort and convenience. From the cat's perspective, laying near the food bowl might be a form of guarantee that they will have easy access to their next meal. This is especially true when you consider that good hydration is crucial for a cat's health. Cats drink a lot of water daily, and having a good source of drinking water close by can make them feel more at ease.
Training and Temptation
Sometimes, a cat laying near the food bowl is simply a strategy to train their owners. By positioning themselves in a prime spot, cats can influence their owners to feed them, perhaps deliberately choosing the food bowl as a strategic location to initiate feedings. Your cat might be aware of your routine and be waiting for you to fill the bowl, making their position a significant part of their daily routine.
Conclusion
Cats are known for their independence and individual behaviors. If your cat frequently lays near the food bowl, there could be various reasons behind this behavior. While it may be a sign of health issues, more often it could be a matter of comfort or simply a strategic placement to ensure easy access to their next meal. Understanding your cat's behavior can deepen your relationship and provide insights into their unique needs.