One of my favorite parts about working with feline parents is hearing about their individual cats’ personality traits. These stories about stubbornness, loyalty, compassion, curiosity, or even modes of communication often surround the highlight of a cat’s day: mealtime! But levels of food motivation, also thought of as prey drive for our obligate carnivore feline companions, can differ for each and every cat. Let’s take a look at some of the most, and least food-motivated cat breeds…
Most Food-Motivated
While cats all have their unique, individualistic traits, the following three breeds seem to be particularly food-focused:
Somali - A stunningly attractive cat with soft coats covering a muscular body, Somalis love to be active and although social with humans, they tend to do better cuddling on their own terms. But if snacks are involved, few cats take food motivation quite as seriously as a Somali!
Maine Coon - Sometimes called the dog-like cat, Maine Coons are known for their hearty builds and long coats. With often long lifespans, Maine Coons are some of the largest cats…at times even reaching 30 lbs! Perhaps not surprising given their size, this official symbol of the state of Maine loves to eat.
Burmese - It’s often said that looking into the glowing golden eyes of a Burmese will leave you convinced that the cat has seen your soul! But then again, this smallish yet muscularly dense feline may just be looking for a snack!
Least Food-Motivated
Like any living organism, cats need nourishment to survive. However, here are a few breeds who eat to live, rather than live to eat:
Ragdoll - With a name like Ragdoll, one can infer that they might not have a very intense drive in general. Although enjoying human affection and company, Ragdolls don’t have snacking too high on their list of priorities.
Birman - A visually striking cat resembling the Ragdoll, this sacred cat of Burma isn’t known for ravenous behavior. Despite their low food drive, Birmans respond well to training with repetition and human affection as a reward.
Most Shorthairs (British/Exotic) - Often thought of as a short-haired Persian, Exotic Shorthairs are laid-back, display lower energy, and are affectionate while also showing lower drives to eat. Although British Shorthairs are known to enjoy human companionship, a calm demeanor and lower food-seeking behavior makes them enjoyable companions.
When Only the Best Will Do for Your Feline Companion
Whether a cat is a food lover or an indifferent grazer, RAWZ offers a way to nourish your feline companion to give it the nutritional foundation to live its best life! Find your nearest authorized RAWZ retail partner and choose from our full line of minimally processed nutrition options. With a wide variety of proteins, textures, solution-based recipes, and even treats, RAWZ offers premium choices to cats of all life stages and breeds. And remember, together we improve the lives of people and pets by donating 100% of our profits through The RAWZ Fund!
