Having a cat as a buddy can be fulfilling. However, cats have some peculiar habits and traits.
Have you ever wondered why your cat always bumps its head against people? Or why it keeps pushing your water bottle off the kitchen counter over and over again?
Here are the actual explanations for some of the weirdest behaviors of our furry feline friends. Let’s begin!
Putting Their Rear End in Your Face is Actually a Compliment
If you’ve spent time with a cat, you know that they sometimes raise their tail and show you their behind.
Well, we’re here to let you know that even though it may not be the most pleasant sight, it’s actually a sign of their affection.
When cats lift their tails and present their rear end to you, it means they trust you and feel comfortable around you.
It’s their way of being friendly and showing that they like you.
It Is An Instinct To Paw At Water
There’s a common belief that cats dislike water, but that’s not always the case.
Some cats actually enjoy water, and if you see a cat playing with their water bowl, it usually means they’re just having some fun.
On the other hand, some cats prefer to drink fresh flowing water.
When they splash their bowl, it’s their way of adding air to the water, almost like creating bubbles in a natural spring or from a tap.
Covering Droppings
Cats have a natural instinct to bury their poop after using the litter box. ‘This behavior developed in the wild to protect them from predators and avoid conflicts with other cats by hiding their scent.
Interestingly, if your cat doesn’t cover their poop, there might be a problem. It could be something simple like not liking the litter or the litter box itself.
The location and accessibility of the litter box could also play a role. However, some believe that it could be related to stress, anxiety, or even health issues in the cat.
Laying On Your Belongings Can Indicate They Want Attention
You know that moment when you’re working on something really important on your computer, and your cat decides to sit right on your keyboard?
Well, there’s actually a reason behind their “unintentional” attempts to type gibberish.
Your cat is wanting your attention because they see you focusing on something other than them.
They want that attention, so they try to get between you and the object you’re using, like your keyboard!
It’s also a way for them to mark their territory by leaving their scent on your things, so other cats know you belong to them.
Chattering Teeth Is Not Bad
If you’ve ever heard your cat chattering their teeth when they spot a bird outside, there’s no need to worry.
It doesn’t mean they have a toothache, and they’re not grinding their teeth. While experts aren’t certain about the exact reason, they have some theories.
Some believe that cats make this quick and intense sound out of frustration. They can see the animal outside but can’t reach it through the window, so they express their annoyance this way.
Others think it might be related to their instinct to warm up their jaw muscles, getting ready to chase and catch prey.
Rubbing Their Heads Is Their Way To Say “Hi”
You may have noticed that whenever you’re around a cat they tend to bump into your legs, face, or arm.
This head-bump doesn’t mean they want to start a fight, though. It’s actually quite the opposite!
The bumping is a gesture, indicating that the cat trusts you and feels safe around you.
It’s a way of saying hello. In addition, when they rub against something it transfers pheromones from their body, marking the person or object as safe and trustworthy.
Cat behavior experts have named this action “bunting.”
Rolling On The Floor Can Signify Different Things
Cats have various reasons for lying down and rolling on their backs, but one key factor makes them do it.
They only roll over when they feel at ease because displaying their belly shows vulnerability.
Rolling can be a way for them to scratch their back and stretch their muscles or an attempt to play and get your attention for a game.
Another reason could be marking their territory by transferring their scent onto the ground as they roll around.
Eye Communication
When a cat stares at you, it usually means they want your attention.
However, you need to be cautious about different types of stares. If a cat stares at you intensely, it could be a sign of aggression, so it’s better not to stare back.
On the other hand, when a cat stares at you for a while and then slowly blinks, it’s their way of showing affection.
But that doesn’t necessarily mean you should immediately go and pick up the cat.
Kneading
This kneading behavior stays with cats even after they’ve stopped nursing from their mother, and it remains in their memory for years.
Adult cats continue to do this motion when they associate a soft surface.
Many experts who study cat behavior believe that cats knead when they feel happy and content in their surroundings or when they want to relieve stress.
Do Not Take It Personally If Your Cat Is Ignoring You
Cats are incredibly clever creatures, and science has confirmed this fact. They recognize their names and the voice of their owners, but unlike dogs, they often choose not to respond.
This behavior is mainly because cats prefer to show affection on their own terms.
It’s not that they can’t hear you; they simply decide not to respond because they’re not interested in interacting with you at that moment.
Don’t take it personally—it’s not because they dislike you or out of spite. Your cat will come to you when they feel the need for affection or want to play.
Nightly Crying Is A Sign Of Having No Prey To Chase
If you have a cat, you’re probably familiar with their knack for being wide awake and playful at the most inconvenient times, like when you’re trying to sleep.
This burst of energy often leads to them running around the house and making loud noises.
These cries could be because the cat is trying to hunt imaginary prey inside the house, or if they can’t find anything to chase, it might be a sign of frustration.
If these nighttime cat calls bother you, experts suggest playing with your cat during the day to help tire them out, in the hope that they’ll be less active at night.
Sprinting Around The House
Have you ever experienced a moment when you hear a strange noise, and suddenly your cat zooms into the room at full speed out of nowhere?
Well, the good news is that it’s perfectly normal for cats to sprint around the house.
They have a lot of energy, and since indoor cats don’t hunt, they need a way to let it out.
Since house cats don’t have a lot of space to run freely or prey to chase, they release their energy through short bursts of activity, often by sprinting through the house.
If your cat frequently engages in this behavior, it might be a good idea to consider playing with them more to help them release their energy in a healthy way.
Say Thanks When They Bring “Gifts”
It can be quite surprising when a cat drops a lifeless mouse at your feet, but rest assured, it comes from a place of goodwill.
When kittens are young, their mother brings them food to help them survive, so it’s possible that your cat learned this behavior from their mom.
If your cat brings you a “gift” or food, it’s their way of considering you part of their family or pack.
However, some experts believe it may simply be a way for cats to seek attention. We prefer to think that the first explanation is true, and they are including humans in their unique cat group.
Isolation Could Indicate Sress
If you notice that your cat is hiding and isolating themselves more than usual, it could be a sign of high stress.
If your cat frequently hides under the bed, in the closet, or other secluded spots without a clear reason, it may be a good idea to visit the veterinarian.
However, if you can identify a specific cause of stress, such as a loud noise or change in their environment, try to address and manage it to promote your cat’s well-being.
Lounging
It can be quite amusing to walk into a room and find your cat sprawled out on a chair with their legs spread wide.
However, this position holds significant meaning. It indicates that the cat feels relaxed, comfortable, and secure in your presence.
When a cat exposes its belly to you, it’s a sign of vulnerability and shows that they don’t see you as a threat.
If your kitty frequently sprawls out like this, it means they are a happy and content companion.
Twitching Ears Can Be A Warning
Cats use their ears to communicate, and every movement holds a different meaning.
When they twitch their ears back and forth, it often indicates that the cat is feeling anxious or agitated. It’s best to give your cat some space when they display this behavior.
Conversely, when their ears are facing forward, it means they are feeling happy and content.
However, be cautious if you notice their ears pointing backward or lying flat, as it indicates they are irritated, scared, or in a defensive state.
Attacking Feet
Imagine you’re sitting on the couch, minding your own business, when suddenly your cat pounces on your feet out of nowhere.
It can be quite surprising, especially if you’re not wearing socks and their sharp claws and teeth accidentally scratch you.
But here’s the good news: they’re not actually attacking you. Well, not in a harmful way.
This behavior usually means that your cat wants to play and is practicing their pouncing and jumping skills.
Most cats are naturally playful, and when they feel bored, they seek some form of entertainment.
Smelling Your Head Or Face
Cats are naturally cautious creatures. So, if your cat suddenly gets up close and personal, sniffing your mouth, nose, hair, and skin, don’t be too surprised.
It may feel a bit strange to have an animal invading your personal space just to sniff you, but they’re simply taking in your unique scent.
Your face is a prime spot for a cat to get a good whiff of your natural smell. They want to make sure you’re still the familiar person they trust and not someone else.
Laying Close To Or With You
When your cat comes to cuddle with you, it’s not just because they like you. They’re actually trying to form a stronger bond with you.
They understand that you take care of them and they want to show their recognition and appreciation.
So, the next time your cat snuggles up to you, remember that it’s their way of expressing gratitude for everything you do and wanting to strengthen the special connection you share.
Biting
It’s never pleasant when your cat bites you, but there are a few reasons why it might happen.
Biting is a natural behavior for cats, even though they’re now domesticated.
Your cat may bite you out of anger or stress, using it as a way to express those emotions since they can’t communicate in words.
Some experts suggest that biting is a defensive reaction when they feel afraid. On the other hand, some people believe that cats may bite as a form of play.
Not Using The Litter Box
It’s frustrating when your cat doesn’t use the litter box, but it could indicate a bigger issue.
If your cat avoids the litter box, it’s probably because they don’t like something about it—the box itself, the litter, or its location.
The best solution is to experiment and make changes. Try different litter boxes, types of litter, and locations to see what works best for your cat.
However, if the problem persists, it could be a medical concern, so it’s advisable to take your cat to the vet for further evaluation.
Often Sleeping
When kittens sleep, their bodies release important growth hormones that aid in their development.
That’s why young cats tend to sleep a lot, even more than adults. So, don’t worry if you see them snoozing frequently! On the other hand, adult cats also enjoy taking naps from time to time.
Cats have a natural instinct to conserve energy, which stems from their days of hunting for food in the wild.
They may also doze off when they’re feeling bored and have nothing stimulating to do. If you want your cat to be more awake and active, engaging in playtime with them is a great idea!
Head Pressing Is A Immediate Sign To Take Your Pet To The Vet
Sometimes, you may notice your cat pressing its head against a wall or another hard object, making strange vocal sounds that are out of the ordinary.
This behavior is not because they feel guilty about something, contrary to what you might think.
If your cat engages in this peculiar behavior, it’s important to recognize that it’s not normal, and you should take them to the vet without delay.
Head pressing can indicate a problem with their nervous system, such as trauma, a tumor, poisoning, or other underlying causes that require medical attention.
Frequent Chewing
If you find your cat chewing on non-food items, don’t worry too much. It could be a condition called pica, and even experts aren’t exactly sure what causes it.
They speculate that it could be related to nutritional problems or stress and anxiety.
While it may seem harmless, chewing on non-food items can actually be harmful to your cat’s digestive system.
It’s important to monitor their behavior and if they persistently chew on inappropriate objects, it might be a good idea to take them to the vet for further evaluation.
Purring
Purring is a fascinating behavior of cats, but scientists still have a lot to learn about it.
While we often associate purring with happiness, it can actually have different meanings.
Cats use purring as a way to communicate, but it’s not just limited to expressing contentment.
They also purr when they’re anxious or stressed as a self-soothing mechanism.
Following You Into The Bathroom
It can be quite puzzling when your cat insists on joining you in the bathroom.
While scientists don’t have a definitive answer, they have some theories. One possibility is that your cat feels safer when you’re around, even in vulnerable moments like using the bathroom.
Cats are naturally curious, so some experts believe that they follow you to satisfy their curiosity and be part of the action.
On the other hand, it could simply be a ploy for attention since they know you’re a captive audience in there.
Tail Waggling
Cats have a different way of communicating compared to dogs.
When a cat wags its tail, it’s usually a sign that they’re not in a good mood and would rather be left alone.
Wagging tail in cats indicates annoyance or irritation, and they’re trying to express their desire for solitude.
However, if a cat’s tail is twitching, it means they’re highly focused or intrigued by something, like a captivating red dot on the wall.
Hissing
When a cat hisses, it’s not just a sign of anger. Cats also hiss when they feel scared or bothered by something.
If a cat hisses at you, it’s likely because they perceive a threat, whether it’s from your actions or the presence of another animal.
The best approach is to give the hissing cat some space and avoid getting too close. Let them calm down on their own.
Usually, cats will return to their usual behavior after a few minutes, once they feel safer and more at ease.
Knocking Things Off Of A Table
It’s no secret that cats have a knack for knocking things off tables, especially when their humans are using those things.
You’ve probably seen plenty of videos of cats doing this on YouTube.
According to scientists, this behavior is actually a form of hunting practice for cats.
In the wild, cats play with their prey, and swatting things away mimics that instinct.
It’s like they’re honing their hunting skills, even if it means your water bottle becomes a target.
Cats are naturally curious and can get bored easily, so they may be trying to engage you in a game or get your attention when they start knocking things off.
Catnip Can Make Them Feel Happy
Catnip has a special oil called nepetalactone that tickles the noses of cats and makes them feel all sorts of funny things.
When cats sniff or eat catnip, about 70 percent of them go into a state of pure bliss and sometimes even have trippy experiences.
It’s like they’re on a temporary joy ride! They might start running around, rolling on the floor, drooling, and making strange sounds.
But don’t worry, this fun only lasts for about ten minutes. Interestingly, even big cats like lions and tigers can also be affected by this leafy magic.
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