Understanding Cat Behaviour

How to train my cat

Understanding cat behavior

If you have lived with a kitty for even a short time, you’ll know that cat behavior ranges from cute to amusing to completely loopy.

Knowing which behaviors are normal and natural lets you know that your cat is happy and well-adjusted – and we all want a happy, well-adjusted cat who is a delight to have around!

Knowing about cat behavior gives you an edge when you are training her as you will know her state of mind and you can choose the best time for her to learn.

Cat behaviour kitten with flower

Common cat behavior

Some common cat behaviour can look quite strange, and you could be worried unnecessarily. Possibly it’s just cats being cats!  Here are some completely normal cat behaviors that you don’t have to worry about:

Why do cats rub against you?

If your cat rubs his face on you it looks and feels like affection, and it probably is. But there is an ulterior motive. Your cat is declaring ownership of you’

Seriously, what he is doing is marking you as his by rubbing the scent glands on his cheeks and forehead onto you.

You may see him marking your possessions – like the book you are reading, your iPad. or your furniture. He is claiming possession. It’s quite normal, and it means he is proud of you and happy that you are hisl

Why do cats bring you dead animals?

When your kitty brings you a dead bird (or worse!) she is being nice to you. She is telling you that you are part of her tribe by sharing her hunting haul with you.

Although it is probably not something you want to encourage, don’t yell at her as it will only confuse her.

Discourage hunting by making her less successful at it – put a bell or two on her collar.

How to train a cat Does my cat love me kitten with rat

Why do cats make biscuits?

Cat behavior Kneading

Why does your cat knead you? Don’t worry, it’s all good! Happy cats knead to show pleasure. Cats often knead when they are being petted or before settling down for a nap. They may also knead you if they are sitting in your lap!

It is  behavior from when they were kittens and had to knead to get milk from their mother.

Take it as a compliment – your cat thinks you are his Mommy !

Why do cats like boxes?

Cats love getting into small spaces, like boxes, baskets even drawers and cupboards.

Why? Because they feel safe and secure in them. They can watch and observe while feeling protected. They can ambush from them, which is another natural cat behavior.

Often it looks really uncomfortable but cats don’t seem to mindl

Cat behaviour hiding in box

Abnormal Cat Behaviour

Why does my cat bite me?

Your cat may bite you suddenly, apparently with no reason – but cats always have a reason. It just may not be obvious to you. 

Cats can be emotional and get upset easily, then bite out of frustration. It could be that they have suddenly decided that they have had enough petting (even though they wanted it a minute ago!)  On the other hand, it can be a way of getting your attention, letting you know that they want to play, so make sure that you schedule some playtime, and have interesting toys for her to play with.

Keep up with the latest news on the Cat Training Blog.

Why do cats eat grass?

Eating grass is often considered abnormal behaviour – but it isn’t. Over 70% of cats eat grass from time to time, according to recent research. In fact, only 11% of cats never eat grass.

Often people think that cats eat grass because they want to vomit, but most cats don’t throw up after eating grass. Researchers have found that eating grass helps cats expel intestinal parasites byt increasing muscle activity in their digestive traces. A bit yuucky, but all normal. No need to be worried.

Why is my cat sneezing?

Cats, like humans, sneeze occasionally, sometimes even three or four times in a row. It isn’t anything to worry about unless  it persists, in which case a visit to the vet is in order.

Before you do check its environment – are you using new candles or cleaning products? It might be as simple as that. But if that’s not the case it could be ‘cat flu’ or sinus problems so its off to the vet to check!

Why is my cat throwing up?

If you cat throws up occasionally it isn’t usually something to worry about.  The most common reason a cat throws up is getting rid of a hairball, which can happen every week or two. If your cat has repeated bouts of vomiting then this is a problem. You should visit your vet right away, to check what the problem is. 

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