Some cats and their humans fall into habits of petting while eating. Your cat has grown to expect this. Your cat likes you to be near when she eats. It is probably comforting to her.

Cats are always cautious when they eat. Their instinct tells them that this is a dangerous time. The smell of food could attract other animals. Plus your cat has to put her head down to eat. It is harder for her to see approaching dangers. It is comforting to have you near because you will warn her of ant dangers.

If you really need to stop being near your cat while she eats, it will take time to break the habits that you have fallen into. First start by not petting your cat during meals. Just be close by. Then after a few days, you will move farther away. About every three days, move another 3 foot away. You can still talk to your cat and reassure that you are there. Finally you should be able to put her food down and walk away. Please be sure that she continues to eat normally. Some cats can get so ingrained in these meal habits, that they refuse to eat unless everything is the same.

My cat Na gullton him get, he don't like any one or anything close to him when eating.