33 Bizarre Cat Behaviors Explained

Do you ever wonder why your cat acts the way it does? Cats have their own set of peculiar behaviors that can leave us puzzled or amused. In this article, we will explore 33 seemingly bizarre cat behaviors and provide explanations for them.

1. Tail Twitching

When a cat's tail twitches rapidly, it often means they are excited or anticipating something. This behavior may be seen when a cat is about to pounce on their favorite toy or when they are playing with a fellow feline.

2. Kneading

Also known as "making biscuits," kneading is when a cat pushes their paws in and out against a soft surface. This behavior is often associated with contentment and comfort, as it mimics their actions during nursing as kittens.

Why Do Cats Knock Things Over?: 33 Bizarre Cat Behaviors -- Explained!

by David Rakoff (Kindle Edition)

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3. Head Butting

If your cat gently bumps their head against you or objects, it's their way of showing affection and marking their territory. They have scent glands on their face and are leaving their scent to claim you as part of their territory.

4. Zoomies

Have you ever witnessed your cat suddenly sprinting wildly around the house? That's the Zoomies! It's a burst of energy expressed through running, jumping, and sometimes even furniture climbing. Zoomies are a common behavior among cats and often occur after a period of relaxation or sleep.

5. Chattering

When a cat chatters their teeth while observing birds or squirrels through a window, it's an instinctive behavior displaying their hunting instincts. It's believed that the chattering mimics the sounds they would make while capturing prey.

6. Slow Eye Blinking

If your cat slowly blinks at you, it's their way of expressing trust and contentment. Known as a "cat kiss," returning the slow blink is a way to strengthen the bond with your feline friend.

7. Pawing at Water

Ever noticed your cat pawing at their water bowl before drinking? This behavior mimics how they would test a water source in the wild. By pawing at the water, they create ripples to check for any potential danger lurking beneath the surface.

8. Purring

Most people associate purring with a cat's contentment, but it can also signify stress or discomfort. Cats purr to self-soothe and may do it when they are anxious or in pain. Understanding the context and other accompanying behaviors can provide insight into their purring.

9. Knocking Things Over

When a cat knocks things off countertops or shelves, it is often an attempt to get attention or play. This behavior may stem from their hunting instincts and a desire for interactive playtime with their human companion.

10. Kicking with Hind Legs

When a cat kicks with their hind legs, it's typically during play or hunting games. This behavior simulates the movement they would use to strike out at prey. Cats may also display this behavior when they are feeling threatened or defensive.

11. Kissing

Cats show affection through grooming, which is considered their version of a kiss. Licking you or other cats is a sign of trust, care, and social bonding. They see you as part of their family and are ensuring that you are clean and well-groomed.

12. Sleeping in Small Spaces

Cats are known for their ability to squeeze into tiny spaces. This behavior stems from their instinct to find enclosed areas that provide protection and warmth. Curling up in small spaces gives them a sense of security.

13. Bringing You "Gifts"

If your cat brings you a "gift" in the form of a dead mouse or bird, it's their way of showing love and providing for you. In the wild, cats bring prey to their loved ones as a sign of nurturing and sharing.

14. Chewing on Inedible Objects

Cats explore their world through their mouths, and sometimes this leads them to chew on inedible objects. This behavior can be due to anxiety, boredom, or a dental issue. Ensuring your cat has appropriate chew toys and regular dental check-ups can help curb this behavior.

15. Running Away from Their Own Poop

It may seem strange, but some cats have a habit of running away from their litter box after pooping. This behavior is thought to be a self-preservation instinct, as they don't want to leave any scent that could potentially attract predators.

16. Twitching Ears

When a cat's ears twitch or rotate, it's a sign that they are alert and actively listening to their surroundings. Their ears are highly sensitive and can pick up even the faintest sounds.

17. Staring into Space

Cats sometimes appear to be staring at something invisible to our eyes. This behavior is often linked to their exceptional night vision and heightened senses, detecting movements or small insects that we humans might not notice.

18. Licking Plastic Bags

Many cats have a fascination with licking or chewing on plastic bags. The crinkling sound may attract them, but it's important to keep plastic bags out of their reach as ingesting plastic can be harmful and lead to digestive issues.

19. Sitting in Boxes

No matter how small the box, cats are often irresistibly drawn to them. Boxes provide a sense of security, allowing them to observe their surroundings while feeling protected. It's their innate hiding instinct at play.

20. Pouncing on Feet

When a cat pounces playfully on your feet as you walk by, it's their way of engaging in interactive play. Cats are natural predators, and their stalking and pouncing behavior is an instinctual response.

21. Eating Grass

Cats sometimes eat grass to aid in digestion or to induce vomiting if they have an upset stomach. Grass acts as a natural laxative and helps them eliminate hairballs or other foreign objects from their digestive system.

22. Chasing Laser Pointers

The elusive red dot from a laser pointer activates a cat's hunting instincts, and they can't resist chasing it. This behavior provides exercise and mental stimulation for your feline companion.

23. Sleeping on Your Head

While it may not be the most comfortable position for you, a cat sleeping on your head is a sign of trust and affection. They feel safe and close to you by being near your scent and warm body.

24. "Making Biscuits" on a Person

Just like kneading on a soft surface, cats also perform this behavior on their human companions. It's a sign of affection and contentment, and they are essentially giving you gentle massages with their paws.

25. Tail Upright with Tip Curled

A cat's tail held upright with the tip curled slightly is a positive sign. It indicates they are feeling confident, content, and friendly. It's their way of saying, "I'm happy to see you."

26. Chasing Shadows

The sudden appearance of a shadow can trigger a cat's prey drive, leading them to chase and pounce on it. This behavior provides exercise and mental stimulation, but ensure they don't become overly obsessed with chasing shadows.

27. Sitting or Sleeping in Sunbeams

Cats have a natural affinity for warmth, and sunbeams are irresistibly cozy spots for them. Receiving warmth from the sun's rays provides comfort and relaxation.

28. "Making Love" to Blankets

Some cats exhibit a peculiar behavior of "kneading" and "licking" blankets, pillows, or soft furnishings. This behavior may stem from their nurturing instincts, as they associate soft materials with kittens and motherhood.

29. Scratching Furniture

Cats have a strong urge to scratch, which helps them shed old layers of their claws, mark their territory, and stretch their muscles. Providing appropriate scratching posts and regular nail trims can redirect this behavior away from your furniture.

30. Licking Plastic or Metal Surfaces

Cats have a fascination with licking smooth surfaces like plastic or metal. This behavior might be due to the texture, taste, or even curiosity. Ensure that the surfaces they lick are safe and non-toxic.

31. Knocking on Doors

When a cat knocks on doors by pawing or scratching, it can indicate a desire for attention or access. They might scratch a closed door to communicate that they want to be let in or simply explore what is on the other side.

32. Rubbing Against Your Legs

Cats rub against your legs to mark you with their scent, showing ownership and affection. It's their way of saying, "You are mine!" This behavior helps strengthen the bond between you and your feline companion.

33. Sleeping in Unusual Positions

Cats can fall asleep in the strangest positions, including contorted poses that seem uncomfortable to us. However, their flexible bodies and ability to relax their muscles allow them to rest peacefully anywhere they feel secure.

Remember, every cat is unique, and these behaviors may vary from one feline friend to another. Understanding these peculiar behaviors can deepen your bond and appreciation for your furry companion.

So, the next time you observe your cat doing something seemingly strange, take a moment to unravel the hidden meanings behind their actions, and enjoy the quirks that make cats such fascinating companions!

Why Do Cats Knock Things Over?: 33 Bizarre Cat Behaviors -- Explained!

by David Rakoff (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1544 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	43 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Why do cats knock things over? Why do they spend their time yelling at birds that can't possibly hear them? Why must they always be on our laptops, and why do they always seem to zero in on the one person in the room who hates cats?

Learn the answers to all of your feline friend's mysteries in this short, witty guide to kitty behavioral science. It's the perfect book to read while you're trapped in the bathroom with your best kitty companion wrapped around your feet.