Why Does a Cat Sometimes Leave One Treat behind?

Cat owners may have noticed that their pet sometimes leaves a single treat behind after snacking. Owners may have assumed that this is just clumsy behavior, but there is actually a very good reason behind it. Cats sometimes leave a treat behind because they have a small blind spot directly under their noses, so they can't see the food in that spot.

Cats do have excellent vision, as many of us have observed when our pet cat detects a tiny insect on a faraway wall. Their vision however, is tuned specifically for the detection of movement. Since cats are nocturnal hunters, they require the best of vision at night time. They have slightly weaker vision during the day and a small blind spot right in front of them. So they are likely to miss the treats that fall in the blind spot.

More about cats:

• If a domestic cat has his or her tail in an upright position, it means that the cat is in a happy and friendly mood.
• Cats have about 470 taste buds which is far fewer than what humans and dogs have.
• Whiskers allow a cat to determine whether he or she will fit into a particular space.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my cat leave one treat behind when I give them several?

Cats may leave one treat behind due to an instinctual behavior known as 'surplus killing', where they hunt more than they can eat and save the rest for later. This behavior is rooted in their wild ancestors' need to ensure food availability. Domestic cats may mimic this by leaving a treat uneaten.

Is leaving a treat behind a sign that my cat isn't hungry?

Not necessarily. Cats are known for their finicky eating habits, and leaving a treat behind could be a sign of selective eating rather than a lack of hunger. They might also be full or simply saving the treat for later, as a natural behavior to secure resources for the future.

Could my cat leaving one treat behind be a sign of a health issue?

While it's often a normal behavior, if your cat suddenly changes its eating habits, it could indicate a health issue. If the behavior is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, lethargy, or changes in drinking habits, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying conditions.

Does the type of treat affect whether a cat will leave one behind?

Yes, the type of treat can influence this behavior. Cats have individual preferences, and if a treat doesn't appeal to their taste or smell, they may leave it behind. Offering a variety of treats can help determine your cat's favorites and reduce the likelihood of uneaten treats.

Is there a psychological reason why cats leave one treat behind?

Cats may leave a treat behind as a form of control or to express their independence. By not consuming all the treats provided, they are exercising their natural choice and control over their environment, which is a key aspect of feline psychology.

How should I respond if my cat consistently leaves one treat behind?

If your cat consistently leaves one treat behind and there are no health concerns, it's generally nothing to worry about. However, you can try reducing the number of treats given at one time or switching to a different type of treat to see if your cat's behavior changes. Always ensure that treats are given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.