Cats exhibit many peculiar behaviors that only their owners truly understand. For instance, receiving a lifeless mouse as a gift or having your drink knocked off the table is just part of the experience. While scientists still have much to learn about cats, we do know enough to identify whether certain actions suggest your cat is comfortable or if something might be amiss. Keep reading to discover the secret lives of cats and how some unusual behaviors indicate that your feline friend is trying to connect with you.
How Cats Seek Attention
Cats love to disrupt whatever you’re doing by sprawling across your workspace. Whether you’re reading a book or typing on your laptop, they won’t think twice about jumping right on top of it.
This is a cat’s way of signaling that you should stop focusing on what you’re doing and start giving them your attention. They insist that you pet and stroke them instead of whatever object you’re currently engaged with.
Why Cats Ignore You
Cats are intelligent beings, but they can also be quite stubborn. Their lack of attention isn’t due to not recognizing their name; rather, it’s simply because they choose not to come to you.
When you call a dog, it will eagerly run to you, but when you call a cat, it will likely ignore you entirely. Cats prefer to show affection on their terms and will approach you whenever they feel like it.
How Cats Seek Comfort
When kittens are born, they instinctively press against their mother’s mammary glands to nurse, prompting her to produce more milk for them. This behavior is retained even as they grow into adulthood.
Adult cats often associate the soft areas of your body with the comfort they experienced with their mother, which is why they knead these spots with their paws. Experts believe that they do this when they are content or seeking to relieve stress.
Why Cats Sniff You
Cats are naturally curious animals that love to explore the scents of their surroundings. If your cat suddenly comes up to you, it’s likely because they want to catch a whiff of your unique scent.
This may be because they seek out familiar and comforting scents. Your hand and face are easily accessible for cats to sniff, reminding them that you are a familiar presence, not a stranger. Inhaling your scent helps cats relax and feel at ease in your company.
Why Cats Chew on Plastic
If your cat suddenly starts showing an interest in chewing non-food items, it might be time to consult a veterinarian. Chewing plastic can be a sign of a condition known as “pica.”
Experts suggest that cats chew on objects as a response to anxiety and stress, or due to dietary deficiencies. If your cat engages in this behavior frequently, it can be harmful to their digestive system, so it’s important to seek advice from a professional.
