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Breaking stuff -

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!

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If they fits, they sits -

Cats are notorious for squeezing themselves into strange places. Bowls, shoe boxes–you name it. They take comfort in small, secure spaces.

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If they fits, they sits -

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.

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If they fits, they sits -

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...

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Butt wiggles -

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.

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Open-eyed yawns -

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.

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Sitting on paper -

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.

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Rolling - When cats roll on their backs it leaves them in a very vulnerable position. It means they trust you and are probably trying to engage you in play.

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Drinking from the tap -

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.

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Dipping a paw -

This is also why they sometimes dip their paw in the water and move it around before drinking. 

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Help at the home office -

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.

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Help at the home office -

Laptops, books, paper–they'll make themselves comfy anywhere! They're always happy to hop on your video conference call with work.

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Join in the conversation -

They sometimes join in phone conversations for the same reason. Some cats even start meowing when they hear you speaking on the phone.

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Speedies -

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.

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Speedies -

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.

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Speedies -

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.

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Chewing on weird stuff -

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.

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Chewing on weird stuff -

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.

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Massage buddies -

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.

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Massage buddies -

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.

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Airplane ears -

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.

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Airplane ears -

If a cats ears are turned back so far that they're flat against their head, then that cat is ready for a fight!

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Rubbing - When a cat presses its body against you, or any objects in the house, they're trying to cover you in their scent. This marks you as their own. It's a compliment of the highest order!

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Slow blinking -

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.

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Winking - This can also sometimes present itself in the form of a wink! Cats have intense survival instincts and only close their eyes around you if they feel really safe. One eye is close enough.

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Chewing grass - Although cats are carnivores, they do enjoy chewing on grass and plants. They pick up small amounts of nutrients from the leaves. If you live in an apartment, consider getting some cat grass plants.

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Covering their faces -

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.

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Chattering -

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.

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Beautiful weirdos -

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: These breeds make the purrfect house cats

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