All cats are individuals and have their own personality
types. However there are a number of common behaviours that most cats exhibit.
Knowing what some of these are and what they mean helps us understand and
appreciate them just that bit more.
As a feline behaviour counsellor, here are some of the most
common questions I get asked:
Why does my cat lift his tail upright, in the shape of a
question mark when he meets me?
This is a greeting and is usually shown to members of cat
that belong to the same social group. It’s their way of saying hello to you!
Why does my cat prefer to drink from the bird bath than his
water bowl?
Cats have particular preferences to the way water is
presented. However most prefer the bowl to be made out of ceramic or glass
rather than plastic as that material taints the water. Wide openings to prevent
their whiskers from being crushed seem to be favoured too. They also prefer to
drink away from their food so dual bowls are not a good idea. Some like running
water so using water fountains can help encourage drinking. Because cats are
prone to kidney problems as they age, it makes sense to give them water in the
most acceptable source possible.
Why does my cat knead me when I am stroking him/her?
This is a sign of security and shows that they feel safe
with you. It has associations with being with their mother. When kittens
suckle, they pad alternately on either side of the teats to help express milk.
Certain textures can trigger this pleasant memory too which explains why some
cats exhibit the behaviour when they are on a fluffy material. Some cats will
even salivate excessively when being cuddled and this is thought to be linked
to the emotion of anticipating the milk feed.
Why does my cat rub around my legs?
Scent profile is very important to cats. They have numerous
scent glands around the face, body and tail that distribute pheromones. These
pheromones are unique to each cat. Sharing this scent between other cats shows
that they are part of the same social group and is only done if they are
affiliated. So you should feel quite honoured that your cat is anointing you
with their scent!
Cats will also rub on objects in the home. This is because
being able to smell themselves gives them a sense of security. That explains
why some cats can show signs of distress when there have been renovations or
new decorations in the house.
Why does my cat like to scratch with his/her claws?
Cats are highly driven to scratch and this innate behaviour
is believed to serve the following purposes:
• Visual
territorial marking – this informs other cats about their presence in a given
area
• Claw
conditioning and exercising the fore limbs (important for predation).
• Marking –
glands in between the toes help to distribute their scent.
Why does my cat like catnip?
Cat nip is a plant (Nepeta cataria). The active chemical in
the plant is called nepetalactone which is harmless and has been likened to LSD
without any of the side-effects.
Around 80% of cats seem to be attracted to its scent and act
in an excited manner when they smell it. This includes rolling around on top of
it and vocalising. Catnip toys can be used as environmental enrichment or to
mentally stimulate in-door cats.
Why does my cat always go towards visitors who are non-cat
people?
For most cats - Less is more! They tend to feel threatened
by the stranger that makes a direct move towards them, puts out their hands or
stares at them. The person who is non-catty therefore is more likely to attract
them!
Caroline Clark is a consultant in animal behaviour counselling and you can find more information at www.peteducationandtraining.co.uk
Caroline Clark is a consultant in animal behaviour counselling and you can find more information at www.peteducationandtraining.co.uk
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