Demystifying Weird Cat Behaviour

Ask any cat parent to describe their feline friend, and you’ll hear adjectives like curious, unpredictable, or peculiar. Cats are strange, and there isn’t any room to deny it—they love to squeeze into tight spaces, knead on your back and lap, and eat things they shouldn’t. Most behaviours aren’t out of the ordinary—but you should still know when to take your cat in for a medical check-up.

1. They’re Literally Off the Walls

Kittens, in particular, are playful and energetic. Most cats will find that they expel energy best when they dart from room to room (known playfully online as “zoomies”), especially as a result of sniffing or consuming catnip.

While these behaviours are to be expected, they can lead to injury. Cat-proof your home by keeping delicate items out of reach and ensuring that windows are shut at all times. Other than fractures, falling out of a window can result in a broken jaw, bruising, or trauma.

Indulge your cat in a 30-minute play session each day to help displace their high energy levels.

2. They’re Head-Bumping

If your cat bops you with their head, chances are they’re expressing affection while letting any surrounding companions know you belong to them. Cats release pheromones from their cheek area, which is what they use to mark their territory.

3. They’re Chirping and Chattering

No, your cat isn’t mimicking bird chirps when they chatter as they watch pigeons fly by. When a cat’s prey is out of reach, they chirp as a sign of frustration and will likely accompany the “song of their people” with a bout of yowling and hackling.

4. They’re Chewing on Everything

Some cats will chew out of boredom, so if you’re a disorganized homeowner, expect to lose your socks, hair bands, pencils, and anything your cats will enjoy “nursing” on. Keep choking hazards out of reach to prevent intestinal blockages.

 5. They Nap Where They Can Barely Fit

Cats love to slip into tight drawers, closet corners, or wherever they deem cozy. If they’re neglecting their $200 cushion for your dresser drawer, don’t be offended. It’s just nature.

 6. They’re Offering “Gifts”

What you consider vermin is probably what your cat believes is a gift. If they leave a dead bird or mouse at your feet, don’t make a fuss of it—it’s an honor. With that in mind, you can prevent this unusual gift-giving by limiting outdoor time and calling up pest control for mice and roaches.

7. They’re Ignoring You

Just like you probably do, your feline family member needs personal space, especially after a cat grooming session, after which they probably won’t be very fond of you.

If you’re taking your feline home after a week of cat boarding in Brandon, Manitoba is isn’t that they don’t remember you—they probably just miss you and vaguely resent you for leaving. Allow your cat some “me-time” when they feel solitary—they’ll likely cuddle later anyway.

8. They’re Kneading

You probably know them as “making biscuits,” but experts will call it “kneading.” Perhaps your cat feels nostalgic and throwing back to suckling days or is merely feeling joyous and relaxed.

9. They’re Defecating Outside Their Litter Box

Just as you prefer your toilet pristine, so does your cat. A dirty litter box is no enjoyable place to let loose. Keep your cat’s toilet away from where it eats and provide a litter box for every cat you own.

If your cat isn’t using their toilet even after putting the above into practice, consult with your vet about urinary tract infection.

10. They’re Sipping and Nibbling

If your cat is teething on plants or drinking from the faucet, they’re probably taking after their wildcat ancestors. Always keep harmful plants outdoors or away from your feline to avoid poisoning. Faucet-drinking, on the other hand, isn’t much to worry about, given that your tap water is safe for consumption.

Conclusion

Cats will always be one of the most enigmatic creatures we know—but that’s what makes for a fascinating pet. If your cat is acting out of character, don’t hesitate to call up your vet for a consultation.

Board your feline friend at the best cat resort in Brandon, The Paw Resort and Wellness Centre, when you’re away from home. Here, we treat your pet with the utmost respect and care because they are family too!