I fill my cat's bowls (Water and Food) every night before I go to bed. They never are empty by the next night when I add fresh food and water, and I have a fairly big cat.
Rodney is right about cats learning about consequences. And that doing certain acts will either get them in trouble or rewarded with a treat or affection. But don't kid yourself for a second if you think they will keep the same behavior when you are gone or asleep.
