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Why does my cat always seem hungry and beg for food after meals?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Scottish Fold | Male | unneutered | 7 months and 30 days old

My British shorts being a fatty. He meows for food every 3 hours. Should I just ignore him and give him his daily 2 meals. I fed him dinner, a big wet hearty ration of beef and then an hour later he started meowing for more, circling his plate. So I give a fish stick to enjoy. But he still had appetite. So I then gave half a plate of dry food and poured water. He finished his food quick and now after an hour, he's staring at the cat food on the counter, still hungry. Is this because of puberty?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily Luisana DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 31st, 2017

Great name! It is true at this age he could be having a growth spurt, but cats also learn very quickly to keep asking for food when they are rewarded! I would make sure his body condition is good (not too fat or too thin), and that he is on a good quality food with enough protein. If that is the case, I would get him on a meal schedule so that he (and you!) are not as tempted to ask for (or give) food when it is not meal time. If he is still staring at you, try playing with him or giving him new cat toys instead of feeding him. I think it is good you are asking this question instead of feeding him more as many of our cats are overweight!! I hope this is helpful!

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on July 31st, 2017

    Acts are very smart, and it sounds like he has trained you to continue giving him really tasty treats! I would recommend that you stick to only cat food, measured out according to the packaging guidelines for his weight, and only feed him twice a day. It can take a little bit of tough love for him to learn you are serious. Also, a diet of beef and fish sticks are not very balanced for a young cat as it is lacking in the appropriate mix of vitamins that growing kittens need.

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