Cats are curious creatures. If they take interest in an object, they like to get up close and personal. Particularly with new things that show up in their environment. Sometimes they push them around. And sometimes the object ends up in pieces on the floor... Consider it a vetting process!
Cats are notorious for squeezing themselves into strange places. Bowls, shoe boxes–you name it. They take comfort in small, secure spaces.
Studies showed that cats who had access to boxes to hide in had lower stress levels than cats who didn't. They're happier when they know they have somewhere to hide if they are stressed or feel unsafe.
Cats are also predatory creatures. They like to ambush their prey and boxes provide a great surveillance spot. So be careful if you notice your cat tracking your movements from its box...
When a cat is in hunt mode and preparing to pounce, they wiggle their butts from side to side. It's hilarious, but it also has a function. It allows them to test their balance in preparation for the leap.
You might notice that cats often keep their eyes open while yawning. That's because they have a strong aversion to closing their eyes for more than a quick blink unless they feel completely secure.
Cats enjoy drinking from a moving water source more than a bowl. They're instincts draw them towards running water as it's likely to be fresh, while standing water is riskier.
This is also why they sometimes dip their paw in the water and move it around before drinking.
Cats are observant and know how to get what they want. If they see you focused on something, they know they'll get your attention if they plonk themselves down on top of it.
Laptops, books, paper–they'll make themselves comfy anywhere! They're always happy to hop on your video conference call with work.
They sometimes join in phone conversations for the same reason. Some cats even start meowing when they hear you speaking on the phone.
The speedies, the zoomies, whatever you like to call it, every cat owner knows about it. For a certain period of every day cats just start bouncing off the walls.
Cats tend to build up a a huge amount of energy during the day, and it's sometimes released at night when their nocturnal instinct to hunt requires satisfaction.
This often leads to meowing at the bedroom door in the middle of the night, in between laps of the hallway. Try playing with your cat in the evenings to tire them out, and give them a meal before you go to bed.
Some cats have a tendency to chew on non-food objects or lick plastic. They can pick this behavior up when teething as kittens, and continue to enjoy it as adults.
It's better to discourage this because of choking hazards. In rare cases they chew because of a health issue, so speak to your vet if they're doing it excessively.
When it feels like your cat is giving you a little massage, that's pretty much what's happening. They have this instinct from their infancy.
When a cats ears twist around, it's often to focus on a sound. They can point their ear canals in the right direction to hear better. However, it also sometimes indicates irritation or stress, so be alert.
If a cats ears are turned back so far that they're flat against their head, then that cat is ready for a fight!
If a cat looks at you and blinks slowly as if they're getting sleepy, that's like a kitty kiss. It's the ultimate sign of trust and affection.
If you're lucky, you may have heard your cat communing with nature. They sometimes make a funny chirping sound to mimic the sounds of their prey. This usually happens when they're spying on a bird outside.
Cats are very practical creatures and rarely do something without a reason. They know how to take care of themselves, but they're also incredibly affectionate companions.
Sources: (Wired) (Cat Health) (The Drake Center)
See also: The most important life lessons we learn from our pets
Photos of cats sitting on sheets of paper are all over the internet. Owners are baffled as to why they're drawn to a simple piece of paper in a room filled with cushions and cozy corners. Well, paper is a good conductor of heat. It's simply warmer to sit on than most places.
When kittens are nursing, they massage their mother's belly to encourage the milk. They continue to do this with their human companions, or even a cozy blanket, when they feel safe and happy.
When cats are deeply asleep, they sometimes cover their faces with their paws. This makes them feel more secure and also blocks out light. Whatever the reason, it's the cutest thing ever.
Cats are weird and wonderful creatures. Sometimes they want to sleep on your face, sometimes they dish out bites without provocation. Their odd behavior feeds into the narrative that cats are little jerks, but in reality they just have a strong sense of self-preservation.
When we welcome a feline companion into our homes, we must also welcome their ancient survival instincts–even if that means random foot attacks and ravaged upholstery. They're worth it!
Click through this gallery to get to the root of your cat's peculiarities.
From odd to adorable: understanding your cat’s quirkiest habits
Get the inside scoop on your furry friend
LIFESTYLE Pets
Cats are weird and wonderful creatures. Sometimes they want to sleep on your face, sometimes they dish out bites without provocation. Their odd behavior feeds into the narrative that cats are little jerks, but in reality they just have a strong sense of self-preservation.
When we welcome a feline companion into our homes, we must also welcome their ancient survival instincts–even if that means random foot attacks and ravaged upholstery. They're worth it!
Click through this gallery to get to the root of your cat's peculiarities.