There are plenty of cat behaviors that leave their owners puzzled, asking “Why do they do that?!”. If you’ve ever witnessed silly or strange habits in your furry friend, the explanation might be here. Take a look at some of the most common cat behaviors and the reasons behind them:
Affectionate Cat Behaviors
Head Bumping – If your cat has ever bumped or nudged you with their head, that’s one way of them telling you they love you. Felines have pheromones in their cheek areas and they rub this area of their face on their owners to show affection and claim you as their possession.
Kneading – When kittens are young, they have a habit of pressing on their mother’s stomach while nursing to stimulate milk flow. As they grow older, cats may knead their paws on their owners, blankets, pillows, or anything soft around the house to express feelings of comfort, affection, and relaxation.
Silly Cat Behaviors
Squeezing into Tight Spaces – Cats love to be cozy and feel secure, and their habit of squeezing into small spaces like boxes, drawers, or cabinets can be traced back to their ancestors. Wildcats often slept in tight, secure areas to avoid predators and feel safe while sleeping.
Chattering when Looking Outside – Does your feline pal love to sit on the windowsill and watch birds throughout the day? The chattering you might hear is them expressing both excitement at watching their potential prey and frustration with not being able to reach them.
Concerning Cat Behaviors
Excessive Chewing – Although cats can chew things simply out of boredom, chewing can sometimes indicate anxiety or illness. There is also a concern when your cat chews on inedible items, as this can cause choking and intestinal blockages (if ingested).
Hiding – Sometimes your cat may hide when they are exposed to an unfamiliar stimulus, and if it’s not a behavior that they’re exhibiting frequently, it’s likely not a cause for concern. However, cats often hide when they are feeling scared or sick, and if this behavior is common in your furry friend, it’s best to see a veterinarian for a health check-up to identify the cause.
Your Best Resource for Cat Health & Wellness
Whether your cat has been displaying odd behavior that have you concerned about their health or you’re interested in having your cat seen by a veterinarian for a standard wellness check-up, Catonsville Cat Clinic is your best resource. We have many years of professional experience in caring for cats both young and old, and can help you better understand your cat’s behavior to ensure they stay healthy and happy.
Contact us today to learn more or schedule a visit.