How to understand cat behavior

Author: Monica Porter
Date Of Creation: 14 March 2021
Update Date: 1 July 2024
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The Meaning Behind 14 Strangest Cat Behaviors | Jaw-Dropping Facts about Cats
Video: The Meaning Behind 14 Strangest Cat Behaviors | Jaw-Dropping Facts about Cats

Content

Cat behavior can be confusing at times because not all cats are alike. Usually, cats are thought to be self-contained, independent animals that require little human attention. However, not all cats are like that. Many cats are very friendly and affectionate, and enjoy being with humans and other cats. No matter what type of cat you have, take the time to learn about their behavior to better understand and communicate with the cat.

Steps

Method 1 of 4: Understand cat communication through vocalization

  1. Find out the meaning of "meow". Everyone is familiar with the cat's "meow". This sound can mean many things, but it will mostly be: "pay attention to me, I am wanting something from you." Your cat may want food, attention, petting, or even to show that it doesn't want to be touched by anyone. Cat owners will soon understand the nuances of a cat's "meow" and know exactly what the cat wants.
    • After spending time with your cat, you will notice the difference in the "meow" sound depending on the situation at the time, such as the time of day or the location where the cat calls.

  2. Understand the "growling" groan. Purring is another familiar cat sound. While not all cats moan when they are happy, it's a good sign if you're petting and the cat responds. Don't get discouraged if your cat never whines, it may be because the cat isn't communicating with it.
    • Satisfied cats will purr, but so will upset cats. If your cat groans under conditions like being sick, it means he is "asking for help".

  3. Understand what your cat wants when he growls or hisses. Hissing and growling are commonly understood as signs of fear or anger in cats. NEVER pick up a hissing or growling cat as the cat can become aggressive and bite you. Leave them alone if you can, or approach them cautiously with a thick towel and leather gloves if you absolutely need to pick them up. advertisement

Method 2 of 4: Understand cat body language


  1. Learn to recognize when cats are scared or angry by paying attention to their body language. A cat will not often hiss or growls when angry or scared. When the cat is angry, the pupil will expand and look at the angry cat. Body hair will be raised. The tail can be wagged to the sides in an inverted U-pose.
    • Also, an angry or frightened cat may have its ears close to its head.
    • Conversely, a friendly cat will approach you with its tail raised, ears pricked and rubbing against your legs. Cats can be friendly purrs, purrs, or even purr.
  2. Understand why cats rub against people. Cats are affectionate and enthusiastic creatures. To get your attention, the cat will sit near you, or rub your feet and meow. This act of attention is common in cats. It will leave a cat's scent on your body, bonding it with you and possibly - though not being sure - more than that.
    • Rubbing yourself against people is an important bonding ritual for cats. If the cat does, don't chase the cat away. Let the cat express its feelings for you.
    • Cats also rub their bodies to express their affection and leave a scent on their bodies.
  3. Understand cat hierarchy. When cats live together, they naturally form a sort of social hierarchy. A cat can become the commander. In the beginning, the owner may not understand that or why they often dispute sandbox or other things. However, if you pay close attention, the commanding cat will show signs such as: approaching the weaker cat with a majestic appearance, erect ears and a high tail. The weaker cat will turn away, close its ears, and often get out of the way for the cat to command.
    • Hierarchy is common between cats. Just make sure they're both happy and healthy, no matter what level they are.
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Method 3 of 4: Understand inter-cat behavior

  1. Understand why cats like to "knead" on you. This is the behavior most questioned by cat owners. Some cats like to gently sharpen their claws or "knead" on their owners. Cats often do this from a young age. Kittens "knead" the mother's breast to stimulate milk to flow during suckling. Adult cats will do this to the owner they love most.
    • This can be painful if the cat uses its claws. Protect yourself if you know cats often "knead" too hard. You can wear a long-sleeved shirt or other protective gear, or stop your cat when it hurts.
  2. Learn how your cat responds when you have a new cat. Introducing a kitten or adult cat can take some time. The cat you have previously raised can consider the new member a threat by hissing, growling and trying to "chase" the stranger away. This is normal behavior, but after careful introduction and regular contact with each other, they will accept and become good friends.
  3. Understand the importance of relationships between cats. Even though cats are solitary animals, they can become very attached to each other. When two cats become close and one gets lost or dies, the other may be sad for months. A distressed cat may complain constantly or stop eating. Love and comfort that cat a lot. advertisement

Method 4 of 4: Understand your cat's destructive behaviors

  1. Understand that cats express dissatisfaction or unhappiness in a variety of ways. Cats have emotions. They may feel lonely, bored, scared or stressed. They show stress in a variety of ways, from screaming to open defecation. By taking the time to observe, you will probably recognize patterns in your cat's behavior and understand them better.
  2. Make sure your cat's litter box is not the cause of your cat's urination elsewhere. Many cat owners understand how important a clean litter box is to the good mood of cats and other family members. When your cat stops peeing in the litter box, this can be a big problem and make it easier for her to be kicked out of the house.
    • There are many reasons why a cat refuses to use the litter box. It may simply be that the cat doesn't like the smell or the texture of the sand. Most cats will prefer an odorless sand. Older cats may not be able to jump into the litter box due to arthritis. The litter box may be too dirty and need to be cleaned (with soap and water) more often. A sudden loud noise, a dog, or any other noises and animals can cause a cat's fear of using the litter box.
    • In a family with many cats, the commanding cat may not allow the other cat to use the litter box. In that case, it is best to have 1 unit more litter than cats. If you have two cats, get three pots of sand. The litter boxes should be placed in different positions so that the commanding cat cannot keep them private.
  3. Look for other reasons to urinate in the wrong place. Peeing in strange places like the owner's bed, chair, or plastic bag may indicate that your cat has a urinary tract infection or other serious medical problem. It can also happen when the owner is away from home for a few days, indicating that the cat is upset by your absence. If your cat suddenly pee out of the litter box, it's best to talk to your veterinarian to rule out other possible causes.
  4. Understand why your cat scratches things in the house. In fact, cats will only scratch if they like the thing and also sharpen their nails. Since nail sharpening is so important to cats, you cannot stop them from doing so. The best way for a cat to stop scratching your favorite chair is to direct its attention to something else.
    • Buy your cat a pedicure pole and encourage her to use it by hanging a toy or putting cat mint on it. If your cat does not like this nail pillar, it may be because the column surface texture is not correct. Try a different cover to see if the cat likes it better.
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Advice

  • If you pay close attention, you will understand the cat's behavior.
  • If the cat is spoiled or behaves unacceptable, NEVER hit the cat.
  • The more calm and comfortable you are, the more calm and comfortable your cat will be.

Warning

  • Do not pick up or touch a growling or hissing cat.
  • If your cat is hiding from you, leave it alone or it will injure you.
  • At times, you will need to consult a veterinarian or an animal behavior specialist to correct certain behaviors in your cat.