Hi Lori, and, of course, you too, sweet somewhat finicky Tom -- and everyone else and their precious furries,
I learned to dance with Giz. Giz was probably in the top three of finicky eaters here on The FDMB. She followed Donna's Shiloh and was probably tied with Chet's ClaraKitty. I am beyond grateful she sent me a sugar cat who actually eats cat food...
Okay, here are suggestions I learned from Mz Giz and many loved members here:
Parmesan or Romano cheese sprinkled on their normal food (Thank you Ann and French Fry!)
Yogurt -- peach was Giz's favorite, although raspberry and blueberry worked in a pinch (and, yes, you can always shoot around yogurt...)
Cheese -- Giz liked extra-sharp cheddar, although had a fondness for provolone and mozzarella, occasionally Swiss...
People tuna in water or just the water -- of course, she preferred white albacore...
Canned salmon -- who knew? Not the wall-eyed (?); but, the other one (red or pink?)...
Shrimp from Yung Chow Fried Rice -- washed and chopped (make sure NO onions!)
Deli meat -- chicken, turkey, roast beef, ham (none honey-roasted)
If anyone has a George Foreman grill, grill chicken breasts, steak (whatever's on sale), or pork chops (Giz preferred boneless center cut...).
Also, mix up flavors of cat food. Obviously this is from Nikki... I usually rotate 3 cans (between 6-7 flavors) daily. She eats FF. Yes, things have been slightly off lately due to the blast furnace heat conditions; but, she's eating and I'm grateful.
Also, please do not tell Nikki about Giz's special menu...
When things were really, really bad with Giz, and I had put out like 11 plates, saucers, and bowls of menu items, sometimes what got her started eating was deli meat off my hand extended under the bed. Fortunately I have long arms... I'd like to hope she didn't hear my sobbing with worry or cursing from frustration... Sometimes all a cat needs is a little tummy jump start.
I beyond feel for you all who are having kitty eating issues... Truly.
Much love and countless hungry thoughts, prayers, and hugs for you all,
Deb and Nikki -- and, Giz, who taught me to never give up...