Curious Lists

15 Unusual Cat Behaviors Explained by Science

31 October 2023
cats, animals

Discover the science behind 15 unusual cat behaviors that leave even the most curious cat owners baffled and intrigued.

Kneading with paws

Interpretation: This is a behavior that cats carry over from kittenhood. It was used to stimulate milk flow from the mother.
Detection: A cat kneads when it is feeling happy or content because it associates the motion with the comforts of nursing and its mother.
Reversal: It's rare to reverse this behavior as it's a sign of a happy cat.
Response: Let your cat knead, but if it gets painful, gently redirect your cat to a soft blanket.

Chattering at birds

Interpretation: This is a hunting behavior and the chatter might be due to the anticipation and excitement.
Detection: Cats usually do this while watching birds through a window.
Reversal: It's a natural behavior, so it can't be reversed.
Response: No response needed unless it becomes excessive which could indicate stress.

Bringing gifts

Interpretation: This is a natural hunting behavior and a way for cats to teach their human about hunting.
Detection: Cats may bring dead animals like mice or birds, or toys as gifts.
Reversal: You can't really stop this behavior, but providing toys can redirect their attention.
Response: Praise your cat to show appreciation, then discreetly dispose of the gift if it's an animal.

Slow blink

Interpretation: This is a sign of trust and affection from your cat. It's like a cat's version of a kiss.
Detection: Cats usually do this when they are feeling relaxed and safe around you.
Reversal: This is a positive behavior which indicates that your cat is comfortable with you.
Response: You can slow blink back at your cat to reciprocate the affection.

Hiding in boxes

Interpretation: This behavior is due to cats' natural instinct to hide from predators.
Detection: Cats may hide in boxes, drawers, or similar enclosed spaces.
Reversal: If your cat hides excessively, it may indicate stress or illness.
Response: Providing boxes or cat furniture where your cat can hide is a good idea.

Knocking things over

Interpretation: Cats do this out of curiosity to see what happens, or to get your attention.
Detection: Cats may knock over small items, glasses, or anything within their reach.
Reversal: You can discourage this behavior by not reacting when your cat does this.
Response: If this behavior becomes a problem, consider cat-proofing the area by removing fragile items.

Eating grass

Interpretation: Cats eat grass to induce vomiting, which helps them to expel hairballs or other indigestible material.
Detection: Cats will chew and swallow grass when outdoors.
Reversal: It's not necessary to reverse this behavior unless the grass is treated with chemicals.
Response: Providing cat grass for indoor cats can help them maintain this natural behavior safely.

Purring

Interpretation: Purring is usually a sign of contentment, but cats also purr when they're sick or anxious.
Detection: The constant vibrating sound and feel when your cat is relaxed, and sometimes when they're not.
Reversal: No need to reverse this, it's a common behavior in cats.
Response: You can respond by stroking your cat gently to keep them relaxed.

Licking People

Interpretation: Licking can be a sign of affection, it's a way of grooming and bonding.
Detection: Your cat will lick you, especially your hands, face, or hair.
Reversal: If the licking becomes excessive or bothersome, you can discourage it by moving away.
Response: You can allow your cat to lick you as a form of bonding, unless you find it bothersome.

Rolling on the ground

Interpretation: Cats roll on the ground as a form of self-expression, it can be a sign of playfulness or submission.
Detection: Your cat will roll back and forth on the ground, often exposing their belly.
Reversal: This is a normal behavior and doesn't need to be reversed.
Response: You can respond by playing with your cat, but be careful not to touch their belly as it's a sensitive area.

Sleeping in high places

Interpretation: This behavior is an instinctual behavior from cats' wild ancestors who would sleep in high places to avoid predators.
Detection: Your cat may choose to sleep on top of cupboards, shelves or other high places.
Reversal: As it's an instinctual behavior, it's not necessary to reverse this.
Response: Providing high perches like cat trees can help your cat satisfy this instinct safely.

Scratching furniture

Interpretation: Cats scratch to mark their territory, to stretch their bodies, and to shed the outer layer of their claws.
Detection: Your cat may scratch your furniture, especially items made of fabric.
Reversal: Providing scratching posts can help redirect this behavior.
Response: Encourage your cat to use the scratching post and reward them when they do.

Burying waste

Interpretation: This is a natural behavior in cats to hide their scent from predators.
Detection: Your cat will bury their waste in their litter box.
Reversal: This is a positive behavior which indicates that your cat is comfortable in its environment.
Response: Keep the litter box clean to encourage your cat to continue this behavior.

Rubbing against people

Interpretation: Cats rub against people to mark them with their scent and express affection.
Detection: Your cat will rub their body and head against your legs or hands.
Reversal: This is a positive behavior which shows that your cat sees you as part of its territory.
Response: You can reciprocate by petting your cat and speaking softly to it.

Obsession with circles

Interpretation: Cats are intrigued by circles due to their curiosity and hunting instincts.
Detection: If you create a circle on the floor using a belt, rope or other material, your cat may sit inside it or play with it.
Reversal: As it's a harmless behavior, it's not necessary to reverse it.
Response: You can create circles for your cat to play with as a form of enrichment.