The Crisis of the Ceramic Bottom
There is no greater tragedy than seeing the white porcelain at the bottom of a food dish. To a hooman, it looks "half full." To a cat, it is a Tier-1 System Failure.
Negotiation Tactics:
The Pathetic Whimper: Sit by the bowl and look as though you haven't eaten since the mid-1990s.
The Trip-Wire: When the hooman walks toward the kitchen, weave between their legs. This reminds them that their mobility depends entirely on your caloric intake.
The Song of My People: If it is 5:00 AM, sing at the bedroom door. Volume should be proportional to how much of the bowl is visible.