Understanding Cat Behavior: What Their Actions Mean

Cats, with their mysterious nature and expressive body language, often leave us wondering what’s going on in their minds. They communicate in subtle ways, through both behavior and body language, and understanding these cues can help you create a more harmonious environment for both you and your favorite feline(s).

Let’s dive into some of the more common cat behaviors and what they mean:

Kneading

If you’ve ever noticed your cat pressing their paws rhythmically into a soft surface—like your lap, a blanket, or even a pillow—you’re witnessing a behavior known as kneading. This adorable action harks back to kittenhood when kittens would knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production. As adults, cats continue to knead, often as a sign of contentment or to show affection.

Also known as “making biscuits, kneading is a cat’s way of saying, “I’m happy and feel safe with you.” Some experts believe that kneading is also linked to territorial marking, as cats have scent glands in their paws that release pheromones. So, when your cat kneads you, they may be claiming you as part of their territory. Or your pillow – with your smell!

Tail Twitching

A cat’s tail is like a mood barometer. When their tail twitches, it’s worth paying attention. A rapidly twitching tail can indicate excitement, such as when they are intently watching birds from a window or playing with a toy.

If the twitching seems aggressive or is accompanied by other signs of agitation (like flattened ears or dilated pupils), your cat could be feeling frustrated or overstimulated. When your cat’s tail is tucked close to the body, it often signals fear or submission, especially in situations where your cat feels threatened. On the other hand, a gentle swaying tail often indicates that your cat is calm and comfortable, perhaps even seeking your attention.

Purring

Purring is one of the most universally recognized cat behaviors, often associated with happiness and relaxation. However, while it’s true that cats purr when they’re content—such as when they’re being pet or even lounging in a sunny spot—purring can also serve other purposes. For instance, cats sometimes purr to comfort themselves when they’re scared or in pain.

This dual nature of purring makes it important to try to look at the broader context. If your cat is purring during a stressful situation (like a visit to the vet), it could be their way of trying to calm themselves down. Always pay attention to your cat’s overall body language to interpret purring accurately.

Hiding

Cats are creatures of instinct, and one of their primary instincts is to find safe, quiet places where they feel secure. Hiding behavior can indicate that your cat feels anxious, stressed, or unwell. While it’s normal for cats to occasionally seek out a secluded spot for a nap or quiet time, excessive hiding might be a sign that something is wrong.

If your cat suddenly starts hiding more than usual, it’s important to assess their environment for potential stressors (like a new pet or loud noises) or take your cat to the vet to rule out any medical issues. Providing a dedicated space where your cat feels safe can help reduce their anxiety.

Rubbing Their Faces Against Objects

One of the primary reasons cats rub their faces against objects like doorframes is to mark their territory. Cats have scent glands located on their faces, specifically around their cheeks and chin. When they rub these areas against surfaces, they release pheromones, which are chemical signals unique to each cat.

Cats will also rub their faces against doorframes or other objects as a way to communicate with you and relieve stress.

Scratching

Scratching is often misunderstood by cat owners as purely destructive behavior, but it’s actually an important part of a cat’s wellbeing. By scratching, cats stretch their muscles, sharpen their claws, and mark their territory. Cats have scent glands in their paws that release pheromones, and scratching leaves both visual and olfactory markers in the environment.

To prevent unwanted scratching on furniture, it’s important to provide designated scratching posts or pads, preferably in areas where your cat already tends to scratch. The texture and material of these posts are important—some cats prefer sisal, while others like carpet or cardboard.

Playfulness

Play is an important part of a cat’s physical and mental health. Cats are natural hunters, and play allows them to engage in behaviors that mimic hunting, such as stalking, pouncing, and chasing. Engaging your cat in regular interactive play sessions helps burn off excess energy and prevents boredom, which can lead to behavioral issues.

Playing with your cat also strengthens your bond with your cat, as it reinforces positive interactions. Toys that mimic prey—like feather wands or laser pointers—are great for tapping into your cat’s hunting instincts. Just remember to let your cat “catch” the toy occasionally to avoid frustration – we know how cats are!

Grooming

Grooming is not just about cleanliness for cats—it’s also a soothing, self-care routine that helps them regulate their temperature, remove parasites, and stay healthy. However, changes in grooming behavior can be a red flag. Excessive grooming can indicate anxiety, while a sudden decrease in grooming might be a sign of illness or discomfort, especially in older cats who may have difficulty reaching certain areas due to arthritis. Regular grooming is also a social behavior between bonded cats, so if your cat starts grooming you or another pet, it’s a strong sign of affection.

Vocalizations

Cats have a wide range of vocalizations that they use to communicate with their humans. Each sound has its meaning, from the familiar meow to the chirps and trills that cats use when they’re excited or trying to get your attention. Pay attention to the pitch and context of these sounds—a high-pitched meow usually indicates a request, such as food or affection, while a low growl or hiss is a clear warning to back off.

Some cats are more vocal than others, and certain breeds, like Siamese, are known for being particularly chatty. If your cat is meowing excessively, there might be an underlying medical issue. By learning your cat’s vocal cues, you can better understand what they’re trying to communicate.

Aggression

Aggression in cats can manifest in different ways, from hissing and growling to swatting or biting. Understanding the root cause of aggression is key to addressing it.

Cats can become aggressive for many reasons—fear, pain, frustration, or territorial disputes. Some cats may also display redirected aggression, where they lash out at their owners or other pets after being agitated by something they can’t reach, like another cat outside the window. If your cat’s aggression becomes a recurring issue, consider speaking to a veterinarian or a behaviorist to identify the cause and find a solution.

By observing your cat’s behavior and understanding the motivations behind it, you can build a deeper, more trusting relationship with your feline friend. Cats may be independent creatures, but they thrive in environments where their needs are understood and met.