Many owners assume picky eating simply means a dog or cat is “spoiled.”

But feeding behaviour in pets is actually surprisingly complex.

Some dogs refuse treats one day and suddenly become obsessed with something completely different the next. Some cats reject food simply because the smell changed slightly. Others seem interested in treats for weeks… until they suddenly decide they’re beneath them. 😄

In reality, smell, texture, routine, previous experiences, sensitivities, stress levels and even owner behaviour can all influence how dogs and cats react to food.

At Lecker Bites, many customers contact us because their pets refuse standard commercial treats but immediately become interested in freeze-dried options instead.

So why does this happen?

If your cat has suddenly started scratching furniture, carpets, or even walls, it can feel frustrating — especially if this behaviour is new. One day they seem perfectly content, and the next, your sofa corner becomes their new favourite scratching post.

But here’s the most important thing to understand:

👉 Your cat isn’t being difficult.
👉 Your cat is communicating.

Cats rarely do things “for no reason.” When a behaviour suddenly changes, there’s usually something behind it — physical, emotional, or environmental. The key is learning what they’re trying to tell you.