10 Odd Cat Behaviors Explained
In this video, we will talk about 10 odd things cats do and explain the meanings behind them.
Why cats spray urine
Cats have numerous ways to leave messages for each other, and one way is through urine marking. By spraying a concentrated mix of urine on vertical surfaces, cats mark their territory and claim certain areas or territories for themselves. By leaving urine marks, cats can even let the opposite sex know that they're available for mating.
Why cats meow when they see you
You have probably noticed that your pet makes grand announcements with meows, yowls or anything between, when they enter a room or area in the home that is occupied by you. Oftentimes, these announcements are requests for food, treats, going outside, or access to closed doors. Other times, your cat just hates to be ignored and they simply want to interact. Cats want to be the center of attention, especially within the home environment. They often use meows or yowls to get you to notice them. They are inviting you to talk and respond to their vocalizations.
Why cats aren’t sleeping at night
Cats are crepuscular animals meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. They prefer hours with less light to go hunting, feed, and perform other activities. To make sure your kitty sleeps through the night, provide them with plenty of things to do during the day, including plenty of exercise opportunities.
Why cats reach their paw out to you
Cats may have a reputation for being aloof and independent but they still need attention and they can become unhappy or jealous if you neglect them. If you've been ignoring your cat, you may find them doing all sorts of cute things to get your attention. Some cats will make hard-to-ignore meows, others will sit on your laptop or snuggle up to you to express that they are lonely. By reaching out a paw to you, your cat may be trying to get your attention and affection.
An outstretched paw can also indicate a request for something, like food.
Of course, a reaching out paw might also just be part of your cat’s stretching. A feline who is relaxed will fully extend a paw or two to stretch their muscles.
Why cats get hyper after they poop
Many cats run here and there after pooping.
Some animal behaviorists link this post-litter box zoomies to a cat's innate survival instinct, noting that a cat might fear that a predator could track them based on the smell of their waste.
Interestingly enough, another theory shows that both humans and cats have vagus nerves that run all the way to their colon. In both species, this nerve can be stimulated by defecation causing excitement and running around. . On the other hand, if your cat bolts away in discomfort after letting out a stool, there may be an underlying health issue.
Why do cats follow you to the bathroom?
More often than not, cats follow us into the bathroom because they like our companionship. Another reason why cats follow you to the bathroom is because bathrooms are a playroom and source of enrichment for cats.
Cats also follow you to the bathroom because they want to know what you are doing. Cats are very nosy creatures.
Why do cats always show their bums to you?
A cat’s butt contains glands that are rich with scent information.
Cats who are friendly with each other will often turn to present their back end for a sniff. So when your cat raises its tail, they are inviting you to check them out, or simply giving you a friendly Hello.
Another reason why cats show their bums is to solicit attention.
Of course, the presentation of their bum is also a sign of trust. When your cat turns around, they are putting themselves in a vulnerable position.
Why cats eat your houseplants
Many cats enjoy eating grass and there are several theories as to why they like eating it. Your cat may graze on grass to help with an upset stomach or boost its vitamin levels. Another theory is that grass acts as a natural laxative, counteracting any cases of indigestion. It helps break down hairballs and pass hair out the other end.
Why cats rub against your legs?
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, chin, paws, top of their head, and base of their tail. These scent glands contain pheromones. When cats rub their face or tail against something or someone, they are leaving behind their pheromones. When a cat rubs against you or walks between your legs, they are actually marking you with their scent. This is so that they can communicate to others that you belong to their social group and you are theirs. This is a type of territorial behavior that indicates affection and a bonded relationship.
Why don't cats like their paws to be touched
Cats dislike having their paws touched because they’re full of nerve endings, making them very sensitive.
In some cases, a cat may not want you to touch their paws because of past trauma. Like if they have had a bad nail trimming experience or if you have squeezed their paw a little too hard while petting them.