Introduction
Cats are enigmatic creatures, often leaving their human companions puzzled by their quirky and sometimes bizarre behaviors. From sudden sprints around the house to peculiar grooming habits, every cat owner has witnessed actions that defy explanation. Understanding these strange behaviors can enhance our bond with our feline friends, revealing deeper insights into their instincts, emotions, and overall well-being. In this article, we will delve into nine peculiar cat behaviors, uncovering the real meanings behind these curious actions and helping you decode the fascinating world of your feline companion.
Why do cats raise their butt when you pet them?
Stroke a cat at the base of their tail, and they are likely to stick their butt up in the air.
The base of a cat’s tail is an erogenous zone with lots of nerve endings. So many cats enjoy being petted or scratched by a trusted person in this region.
Interestingly enough, cats also adopt this posture when they are in heat and ready to mate. Female cats that are in heat often become more affectionate and drop into this position every time you pet them.
Why do cats cover their faces when they sleep?
More often than not, cats cover their faces while they sleep to keep their noses and bodies warmer. By covering their faces with their paws or curling up tightly into a ball, your feline friend can reduce the amount of heat that is lost as they sleep.
Cats also cover their eyes as a way to block out the light.
Why does your cat lick you and then bite you?
If your cat licks and then bites you out of the blue, then you might be in the presence of a love bite. Cats and often bite to show affection. But only with gentle and more controlled nibbles.
Some cats bite you as part of their grooming behavior. When felines clean each other, they lick and nibble to ensure thorough hygiene, meaning it is completely normal for our cats to bite us a little when grooming us.
But remember, if you are actively petting your cat and they give your finger a lick or two, and then a nice chomp, it might be that they have had enough of your pets and are overstimulated. Overstimulation happens when you touch your cat in areas they don’t like or when you pet them for extended periods of time. After some time, something that they might have found enjoyable turns frustrating and results in a little bite. This is your cat’s warning signal to stop petting them.
Why do cats keep changing their sleeping spots?
A study published in Applied Animal Behavior Science surveyed 1,177 cats and found that on average cats had 5 preferred sleeping places.
It is a survival instinct for cats to regularly change their sleeping location. Cats in the wild frequently move their nests and colonies to avoid detection from predators.
Cats also sleep in different locations to enjoy privacy, regulate their body temperature, and to avoid stressful experiences. Many cats prefer sleeping far enough from litter and food to avoid strong or direct smells.
Why some cats over-vocalize?
If you have got a cat that over-vocalizes, there are several reasons for it.
The most common cause of excessive vocalization is attention-seeking. Many cats learn to meow to signal their wish to go outside, be fed, initiate play, or even get you to talk to them.
Cats that are experiencing stress also become more vocal. A new pet or baby, a house move or big changes to the home, an illness, or the loss of a loved one, can turn your cat into a talker.
Other reasons for a cat’s over-vocalization are boredom, loneliness, and separation anxiety.
Why do cats take your spot?
Cats often steal your seat because they enjoy the scent and warmth you leave behind. Cats love warm temperatures and want to absorb your body heat. Domestic cats also enjoy being close to their owners’ scent because it makes them feel safe and comfortable.
Why do cats knead?
More often than not, cats knead when they are feeling happy and safe. You may also notice they purr and have their eyes half-closed, which are often other signs of feeling safe and content.
Another reason why cats knead on random surfaces is to mark their territory.
Why does your cat sleep with you?
Cats sleep with you for several reasons.
Cats like warmer temperatures than humans do. So when the ambient temperature is a little cool, your cat is going to look for a nice warm area to maintain their temperature, and your body is a good source of heat.
Another reason your cat sleeps with you is because she wants to feel safe. In the wild, lying down or sleeping makes animals more vulnerable to predators. Sleeping on top of a trusted human gives a cat a sense of security, as well as comfort and warmth to sleep peacefully.
Cats also sleep with you to show you affection and love. While cats can be very independent, they do miss you when you are gone from home for a long period of time and will want to cuddle with you when you get back.
What does Dilated Eyes mean?
Cats’ pupils fluctuate in size and shape based on light and emotion. By dilating their pupils, cats allow even tiny amounts of light into their eyes so they can see better in the dark. During the day, cats contract their pupils depending on how bright it is.
Interestingly enough, pupil size can also be an indication of your pet’s mood.
Your cat could be stressed, anxious, excited, or in fear. Cats also often have dilated pupils during their heat cycle.
In situations that produce enjoyment, like when they’ve just eaten their favorite food, a cat’s pupils may dilate as a reflex. By the way, this video below has received so far 10 million views on YouTube.
Conclusion
While cats may seem mysterious and unpredictable, their behaviors often have logical explanations rooted in their natural instincts and emotional needs. By uncovering the real meanings behind these nine strange cat behaviors, we can better appreciate the complexity and depth of our feline friends. This understanding not only strengthens our connection with them but also ensures we can provide a more enriched and responsive environment. Embracing the quirks of our cats allows us to celebrate their unique personalities, making our shared lives even more rewarding and delightful.