Cleo the Snack Bandit: How a Gourmet Cat Keeps Me Guessing
Living with Two Indoor Cats in London
Cleo the food bandit [Image by Hadinet Tekie]
As a proud Londoner living in the hustle and bustle of this vibrant city, I often find that my two indoor cats, Kyro and Cleo, turn every day into a delightful adventure. Kyro, my gentle and curious boy, is more laid-back, while Cleo — my little foodie — is fiercely independent, playful, and has a serious passion for snacks.
Living in a small London flat means I cherish the comfort and companionship of my cats, but it also means I’ve had to become a bit of a food detective—especially when it comes to Cleo’s relentless snack-stealing antics.
Today, I want to share the funny, heart-warming, and sometimes exasperating story of Cleo’s obsession with food, her sneaky swipes, and how I’ve learned to navigate her culinary curiosity without losing my mind (or my snacks).
Cleo and Kyro's delight! [Image by Pixabay]
Cleo: The Feline Foodie Extraordinaire
Cleo is the kind of cat who believes that every meal is an occasion. Whether it’s her own fancy dry food, a tasty treat, or even a mouth-watering wet food from Kyro's bowl, she’s always ready to pounce, swipe, and snatch her way to an extra bite.
It’s honestly impressive — her stealth, her agility, her relentless pursuit of food. She’s like a tiny, fluffy ninja with a nose for danger and a stomach for adventure.
I often joke that Cleo isn’t just a cat; she’s a foodie who views every meal as a potential feast, and she’s quite the connoisseur of dining.
On the prowl... [Image by Pixabay]
The First Time Cleo Struck… and Got away
It all started innocently enough. One quiet afternoon, I was happily munching on a sandwich at the kitchen table. Suddenly, I looked over, and there was Cleo, pawing at Kyro's bowl, inching him away from his food with a bum shimmy and her focused eyes. Before I knew it, she’d managed to grab a portion of Kyro's meal right before I could stop her. She had already hoovered her own seconds earlier.
I was surprised at her nerve and agility. She looked at me with a cheeky grin as if to say, “Anymore, human?” I couldn’t help but laugh.
Cleo’s Stealth Tactics: A Master of Disguise
Cleo is a pro at sneaking. She’s learned how to stealthily approach the kitchen counter or the dining table without making a sound. She waits patiently, sometimes for hours, until she spots her perfect opportunity.
And when it comes? Well, forget about catching her in the act. She’s faster than lightning, nimble as a ninja, and clever as they come. Her favourite targets are Kyro's food after she has demolished her own, little begging paws trying to reach my yoghurts whilst I eat standing up, or even kicking treat balls backwards to make sure that the treats will fall within her reach instead of Kyro’s.
I’ve caught her in the act more times than I can count. Sometimes, I’ve got my phone ready to snap a photo of her mid-swipe — because honestly, her sneaky skills are just too adorable not to document.
Post-raid nap. Recharging energy for the next food adventure! [Image by Pixabay]
Why Does Cleo Love Food So Much?
I wondered about this passion for food. Is it just her personality? Or is there more to it?
From what I’ve read and observed, cats are natural hunters and scavengers. Even indoor cats like Cleo have inherited this instinct to seek out food. Plus, she’s tiny but mighty, with a big personality and an even bigger appetite.
How I Manage Cleo’s Snack Attacks
Managing Cleo’s constant snatching isn’t easy, but over time, I’ve developed a few strategies:
- Designate specific feeding times: Strict schedules help her understand when she can eat and reduce her anxiety about food.
- Use puzzle feeders or treat balls: These keep her engaged and mimic hunting, satisfying her instincts.
- Keep food out of reach: I’ve invested in some secure, cat-proof containers for dry food and treats.
- Train her with gentle boundaries: Using positive reinforcement, I reward her when she waits patiently or ignores food I don’t want her to have.
- Create a distraction: Toys, catnip, or a cosy bed distract her from the tempting human snacks. (Paid Ad)
Living in a City with a Foodie Cat
London life [Image by Pixabay]
Living in London with Cleo and Kyro is a constant adventure. The city’s vibrant, diverse, and sometimes noisy, but my home is its sanctuary. And Cleo’s love for food? Well, it keeps me on my toes.
Every day is a new challenge and a new laugh. From her sneaky snatch of some of Kyro's wet food during breakfast to her unwavering stare when I have a yoghurt snack, Cleo’s passion for food makes me appreciate the simpler, sillier moments in life.
A Loving Reminder: Feed Your Cat Responsibly
While I love Cleo’s adventurous spirit, I also remind myself to keep her health in check. Overfeeding or feeding her human food can be risky, so I always stick to the vet’s advice and extensive personal research to make sure her diet is balanced and safe.
If your cat is a foodie too, remember: moderation and healthy choices are key. (Paid Ad)
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Quirks of Your Feline Foodie
Happy kitty, happy human! [Image by Pixabay]
Cleo’s food-loving antics have made me realise just how amusing and lovable our feline friends are. Their quirky behaviours — whether it’s sneaking snacks, chasing shadows, or purring in the middle of the night — are part of what makes them so special.
Living with Cleo in London has taught me patience, humour, and the importance of creating a safe environment where she can indulge her culinary curiosity without chaos.
If you have a food-obsessed kitty like Cleo, know that you’re not alone — and that these quirks are a testament to their unique personalities. Celebrate those moments, set boundaries where needed, and enjoy the endless entertainment they provide.
For more insight and fun facts, check out my other blogs!
Warm Disclaimer: I am not a veterinarian. The advice shared here is based on my personal experience and research. Always consult your vet regarding your pet’s diet or behavioural concerns.
