My cat will not eat canned food unless it has gravy. So I have to add some water and stir it up so it is soupy. She just stares at me if I don't do this.
We also have this ritual when I get home from work. I have to pet her tummy then I chase her around the house. She loves it. She will hide behind a chair and when I come by she will jump out and get me. We also play tag up the stairs. It is good for me too. We both get exercise.