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Is free feeding dry cat food okay? Why does my cat scoop food?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old

Hi, is it ok to leave dry food out for cats 24/7 ? And why does my cat scoop the food out with his paws and eat them on the floor sometimes? We didn't change his bowl and he eats normally most times.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on January 24th, 2018

Most cats are able to self regulate their food intake but you should monitor for excessive weight gain and measure the amount he gets per day. Be sure he has access to fresh water at all times and be aware that easily accessible food may draw stray cats also

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