Some cats become little food thieves, sneaking bites from your plate, jumping onto kitchen counters, or even stealing food from other pets. While this behavior might seem amusing, it can be frustrating and even dangerous if they eat something harmful.
In this guide, we’ll explore why cats steal food and how to train them to stop.
Why Do Cats Steal Food?
Cats may steal food for several reasons:
✔ Hunger – If they’re not getting enough food, they may try to steal extra.
✔ Curiosity – New smells and textures make human food tempting.
✔ Opportunistic Instincts – In the wild, cats take food whenever they can.
✔ Attention-Seeking Behavior – If stealing food gets a reaction, they’ll do it again.
✔ Lack of Proper Training – If they were allowed to eat from the table before, they may think it’s okay.
Now, let’s go over how to stop food theft effectively.
Step 1: Keep Human Food Out of Reach
If your cat can’t access food, they can’t steal it.
✔ Store food in sealed containers or the refrigerator when not in use.
✔ Never leave food unattended on counters or tables.
✔ Cover plates with a lid or aluminum foil if you step away.
✔ Preventing access removes temptation.
Step 2: Feed Your Cat on a Consistent Schedule
A hungry cat is more likely to steal food.
✔ Feed them at the same times every day to establish a routine.
✔ Ensure they’re getting a nutritionally complete diet to satisfy hunger.
✔ Use puzzle feeders or slow-feeding bowls to make meals last longer.
✔ A well-fed cat is less likely to search for extra food.
Step 3: Train the “No” Command and Redirect
Teaching boundaries is key to stopping food theft.
✔ When your cat tries to steal food, say “No” firmly but calmly.
✔ Redirect them to their own food bowl or a designated eating area.
✔ Reward them with a treat when they obey the command.
✔ Consistent training helps enforce good behavior.
Step 4: Use Deterrents to Keep Cats Off Counters
If your cat steals food from the counter, make it less appealing.
✔ Apply double-sided tape or aluminum foil to discourage jumping.
✔ Use motion-activated pet deterrents to surprise them.
✔ Keep a cat-friendly feeding station away from human food areas.
✔ If the counter isn’t fun, they’ll stop jumping on it.
Step 5: Avoid Reinforcing the Behavior
Giving in to your cat’s begging only encourages more stealing.
✔ Never feed them scraps from your plate—this teaches bad habits.
✔ Ignore them if they beg during meals and reward them when they stay calm.
✔ Offer treats only in their designated eating area.
✔ Consistency prevents mixed messages.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Leaving Food Unattended
❌ Mistake: Expecting your cat to ignore food left out.
✅ Solution: Store or cover food when you’re not watching.
2. Feeding Them from the Table
❌ Mistake: Giving them a bite of your food occasionally.
✅ Solution: Keep human food separate from their meals.
3. Using Punishment Instead of Training
❌ Mistake: Yelling or using physical discipline.
✅ Solution: Redirect them calmly and reinforce good behavior.
When to Seek Professional Help
If food stealing continues despite training, consult a:
✔ Veterinarian – To rule out medical issues like increased appetite disorders.
✔ Feline Behaviorist – For additional training strategies.
Conclusion
Stopping your cat from stealing food requires a mix of prevention, training, and consistency. By keeping food out of reach, feeding them on a schedule, and using deterrents, you can successfully train them to respect food boundaries.
With patience, your cat will learn to focus on their own meals—and leave yours alone!