Common cat behaviors and their meanings

Photo by Vecteezy 

Cat behavior is complex and can vary widely between individual cats. Understanding cat behavior can help you build a stronger bond with your feline companion and provide the best care for their physical and emotional well-being.


Here are some common cat behaviors and their meanings:

Purring

Photo by Ceyzi

Cats often purr when they are content and relaxed. However, cats may also purr when they are in pain or stressed as a self-soothing mechanism.

Kneading

Kneading is a behavior kittens exhibit while nursing to stimulate milk flow. Adult cats may knead when they feel safe and happy, often on soft surfaces or their owners' laps.

Head Bunting

Cats may rub their heads against you to mark you with their scent, showing affection and ownership. It's a sign of trust and comfort.

Tail Position

A cat's tail position can indicate their mood. A raised tail usually signifies happiness, while a puffed-up tail indicates fear or agitation.

Slow Blinking

A slow blink from a cat is like a kitty "I love you." When a cat blinks at you slowly, it's a sign of relaxation and trust.

Scratching

Photo by Vecteezy 

Cats scratch to mark their territory visually and through scent glands in their paws. Provide appropriate scratching posts to satisfy this natural behavior.

Hiding

Cats hide when they feel stressed, scared, or unwell. Allow them a safe space to retreat to when needed.

Bringing "Gifts"

Cats may bring their owners "gifts" like prey (usually toys) as a display of their hunting prowess and as a sign of affection.

Play Behavior

Play is important for a cat's mental and physical well-being. Cats engage in play to practice hunting skills, and interactive playtime with toys can be very beneficial.

Grooming

Cats groom themselves to keep clean and to distribute their scent. Mutual grooming between cats is a bonding behavior.

Hissing or Growling

Photo by Vecteezy 

Hissing and growling are defensive behaviors cats use when they feel threatened or cornered.

Chattering

Some cats make a chattering sound when they see birds or other prey animals. It's believed to be a sign of their hunting instinct.

Rolling Over

A cat rolling onto its back can be a sign of trust and comfort. However, not all cats enjoy belly rubs, so approach with caution.

Stalking and Pouncing

Cats stalk and pounce during play to mimic hunting behavior. This is an important aspect of their natural instincts.



If you're unsure about a specific behavior, observing your cat's body language and considering the context can often provide insight into what they are communicating.