My cat wont eat unless i am there

Hi,.....my 12 yr. old cat grew up w/our Golden Retriever (they were BEST pals)....our dog has passed away(it still hurts after 3 yr.)...our cat Gissy was very angry for at least 6mo., then we moved...had to stay in tiny apartment w/all our belongings(furniture,etc.). While there Gissy started to eat only when I was next to her. She would come to me and want me to follow her to her dishes...which I did. This continued for the whole year we were there....now we have moved into a new house and she still wants me next to her while she eats. Is there some way to ease her back into going to her eating area by herself and munching on the goodies? It's not a good habit...especially if something happened to me!!! She's not too chummy w/my husband. HELP.................Reilly

Answer from Kate
Hi
yes a little bit of tough love may be required here.

your right it is not a good habit for her to continue.

Sadly there is no easy option apart from putting some food down for her and walking away. Close the door behind you so that she can't follow. Make sure the food is her favorite and fresh and keep doing the same thing over and over again. She will eventually eat when she is hungry enough.

It won't be easy and you will find it tough, but it is simply a habit she has gotten into. She is not ill and when she is hungry she will eat.

You know the saying cruel to be kind, well thats what this will feel like. hang in their, you are doing the best thing for her.

best wishes Kate

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