How to Tell If Your Cat Is Hungry: Key Signs to Watch For

Cats may not speak our language, but they know how to get their point across—especially when they are hungry! Whether you're a new cat parent or just trying to understand your furry friend better, learning to spot signs of hunger can help you maintain a healthy feeding routine.

Meowing More Than Usual

One of the most common signs your cat is hungry is increased vocalization. If your cat starts meowing persistently—especially near feeding times—it could be their way of saying, “Feed me now!”

Following You Around

Does your cat suddenly become your shadow? If they follow you everywhere, especially in the kitchen, they might be trying to get your attention for food.

Licking Lips or Pacing Near the Bowl

You might notice your cat licking their lips, pacing near their feeding area, or pawing at their bowl. These physical behaviors are clear hunger signals.

Begging for Food or Jumping on Counters

Some cats get bold when hungry—jumping onto countertops, sniffing around your plate, or trying to sneak food. If your well-behaved kitty suddenly becomes a little thief, hunger might be the cause.

Eating Quickly or Aggressively

If your cat devours food as soon as it's served, it may be a sign that they weren’t getting enough in the first place. Keep an eye on portion size and feeding frequency to make sure they’re satisfied.

Early Morning Wake-Up Calls

Cats love routine. If your cat wakes you up earlier than usual, pawing at your face or meowing at the bedroom door, they could remind you it's breakfast time.

How to Manage Your Cat’s Hunger in a Healthy Way

  • Maintain a feeding schedule: Feed your cat at the exact times daily to help regulate hunger.
  • Measure portions properly: Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can leave them constantly hungry.
  • Check for underlying issues: If your cat constantly seems hungry despite regular meals, consult a veterinarian to rule out medical problems like worms or diabetes.
  • Keep them engaged: Sometimes, boredom is mistaken for hunger. Use toys or treat puzzles to stimulate their minds.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your cat's hunger signals helps you meet their needs and maintain their health. Always ensure you're feeding a balanced, portion-controlled diet, and keep an eye on any changes in behavior. If something feels off, a quick check-up with your vet is always a good idea.

Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

Best Selling Combo

Best Selling Combo

Heartgard Nexgard Combo for Dogs Flea, Ticks & Heartworm Treatment

Customer Reviews

Overall rating: 4.8 / 5 from 1131 reviews.

Customer photo review of Custom Duty

Fast shipping great quality and price

Custom Duty

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Two sweet girlies decided to make our deck their home. Mosquitoes are a big problem where we live and we had to get them protected. This was the best bang for the buck. I’ve ordered from 79Pets several times and while delivery is not fast it is very consistent.

Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Teresa!

Customer photo review of Nexgard Combo For Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

As a retired veterinary technician I was extremely happy to finally see a flea and heartworm medication that actually does tapeworms too!!!!!!! This is a 1st to my knowledge....I live in a tropical climate where fleas never die so this is heaven sent.

Nexgard Combo For Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Kimberly.

Customer photo review of Stronghold Teal For Dogs 44-88lbs (20-40kg)

Very happy with the price of Stronghold heart worm med for my dog. Seems to be working well.

Stronghold Teal For Dogs 44-88lbs (20-40kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Dory!

Customer photo review of Simparica Trio For Dogs 22.1-44 lbs (10-20 kg)

My dog loves this product, never got any issue. Good price , deliver on time. We will definitely keep purchasing with 79 pets.com. Thanks!

Simparica Trio For Dogs 22.1-44 lbs (10-20 kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Elle!

Customer photo review of NexGard Chew For Small Dogs 10-24lbs (4-10kg)

I have 3 of these little rascals so Michigan flea/tick season can be financially brutal! Thank you for keeping NexGard so affordable.

NexGard Chew For Small Dogs 10-24lbs (4-10kg)

Store owner replied: Thank You Elaine

Customer photo review of Nexgard Combo for Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

After Seresto collars failed to get rid of fleas, I didn't know where to turn. I saw a post on a page I follow (Kentucky Kitty Cats) saying that they use Nexgard Combo for the cats they shelter. I decided to try it and IT WORKS!

Nexgard Combo for Cats 5.5-16.5 lbs (2.5-7.5 kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Cari.. We are glad that you found treatment which works for your Cats..

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

This is Lexi Marie! She was wondering why mom was so excited for buying flea medicine. I explained to her that we saved $100 and that she would understand some day when she grows up.

Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Tammy!!

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Last year, I made a visit to the vet. I told them that Kattie/cat had ear mites. They gave me an ointment costing $80canadian. I used it up and purchased another bottle. $160. total not including the cost of the vet visit. No results. The ear mites have been there for a long time. Canadian vets have control of what is sold in Pet stores and you cannot purchase off the shelf products not recognized by them. I jumped at the chance to purchase your produce with a recommended 100% effectivity. I was willing to try, but was suspicions. After a month there was still a little scratching but after 6 weeks, the mites are gone and the scratching is gone. Thank you very much for this mite solution. I recommend it heartily. Harry P.S. Do not tell the Canadian vets as they will outlaw your product.

Revolution Plus For Medium Cats 5.6-11 lbs (2.6-5kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Harry for review!!

Customer photo review of Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

En fait, c'est le seul produit dont mon chat "Winston" ne soufre pas de problèmes cutané et perte de poils, le "Révolution plus" fait très bien le travail, merci.

Revolution Plus For Large Cats 11.1-22lbs (5-10kg)

Store owner replied: Thanks Alain!