MANY owners consider their cat to be fussy, when really they are just very conservative in their taste, and are unwilling to try new things.

Kittens are heavily influenced by their mothers and pick up the taste preferences of the mother not only through the weaning stage but also before birth. A varied diet for the mother cat and kittens will increase the variety of foods a cat will eat later in life.

For cats the most important factor about their food is aroma, closely followed by the feel of the food in the mouth. The size, texture and shape of dry kibble foods is very important as cats cannot chew, they only bite and crunch the food once before swallowing so it has to be easy to pick up, and easily crunched.

Flavour is the least important factor to a cat. Interestingly they also like wet food served at body temperature (which is the same temperature as the live food they catch out in the wild!) - this is why they may appear to turn their noses up at food straight from the fridge.

Sometimes, fussiness is more down to the way you serve food rather than the food itself.

Cats generally prefer to be left in peace when they are eating, and don’t enjoy an audience. Try to create a bit of privacy for your Cat’s mealtimes and switch feeding time until after the rest of household has eaten, keeping your cat away from the family eating area during meals.

Make sure your Cat’s bowl is clean. Many Cats won’t eat out of a bowl that has bits of old food in it. Try to get into the habit of washing out food and water bowls after each use, can attract bacteria.

If your cat normally enjoys dry food but has suddenly become fussy, you may need to replace the food. Dry food absorbs moisture and becomes stale, especially in warmer weather.

If your Cat spends time outdoors, remember there are plenty of opportunities for an extra snacks outdoors. At dinnertime, your cat just might not be hungry.

Like humans, cats react to the weather. Hot summer days suppress the appetite and your cat can’t opt for a light salad as an alternative.

Unlike humans, cats don’t have psychological eating disorders and most will give in when they get really hungry. When your cat does eventually eat, offer lots of praise and affection as soon as the bowl has been removed.

If your cat’s ‘fussiness’ continues, you may wish to try an alternative high quality cat food. Stick with the previous preference, whether dry or wet. Sometimes a change of recipe is all it takes to get the taste buds working again.

You should also check your cat’s teeth. A dental problem or abscess could make eating difficult or painful. If your cat’s gums are red or swollen, or the breath is unpleasant, ask your vet for a dental check-up.

If your cat refuses all food for 48 hours or more, consult your vet. Refusal to eat can indicate a developing allergy, or be a sign of a more serious complaint. It may just be fussiness, but it’s always best to make sure.

Swindon Advertiser:

PetShed Ltd, Studley Grange Farm, Hay Lane, Wroungton, SN4 9QT. Tel: 01793 853724.