Cat Behaviors Explained

White Frame Corner
Gray Frame Corner
Circled Dot
Dot

Purring

Cats purr for various reasons: relaxation, self-soothing, communication, socialization, and guiding kittens. Purring is a versatile and meaningful behavior

Arrow

Showing its belly

Cats may offer their bellies as a sign of trust, but petting them there may lead to a bite or scratch. Understand their communication and show gentle affection. Trust cues may differ, so observe your cat's unique ways.

Arrow

Wagging its tail

A cat's tail wag can indicate warning, heightened excitement, annoyance, or frustration. Thrashing tail signals potential aggression. Tip wagging may imply readiness to pounce. Understand your cat's tail language

Arrow

Chirping

Cats chirp when hunting or excited to see someone. Tail twitching and dilated pupils accompany hunting chirps. Discover why your cat stares at you.

Arrow

Rising early

Cats get the zoomies at dawn, regardless of your alarm. Install blackout shades, establish strict feeding times to curb early wake-up calls.

Arrow

Knocking things over

Cats batting objects off tables is normal behavior, stemming from boredom, attention-seeking, hunting instincts, or playfulness, according to experts.

Arrow

Scratching furniture

Scratching is a natural behavior in cats, serving to maintain claws, mark territory, release energy, and provide pleasure through sensation.

Arrow

Licking you

Another cat behavior you may have noticed is your pet licking you with its rough tongue. They do this for a few reasons, notes Dr. Pendergrass.

Arrow

Licking itself

Along with licking you, cats tend to lick themselves—a lot! This is because they’re self-cleaning creatures, and their grooming habits are quite impressive

Arrow

Bringing dead animals

You’re sitting there minding your own business, and here comes your kitty making all sorts of weird noises and carrying an object in her mouth

Arrow

Meowing

Arrow

Cats have various vocalizations, including meows, hisses, and growls, which they use to communicate with humans and each other, conveying different needs and emotions.