Quincy ate with his cone on almost all the time----(believe me--they can)--he used it as a scoop and scooped up kibble then a quick lift and tilt and it skidded down the cone into his mouth! It was kinda cool really! There were very few times I took his cone off(mostly for me to clean it or adjust his collar etc.),but for some reason-the neuter didn't bother him---but give him a chance to lick those dew claws----he would take it. I honestly think it is a natural thing and it's a draw to lick the paws/ouchie,you know? It's tough----but the longer Lilly wears the dreadful cone,the better off she'll be.:thumb: