Your cat’s behaviours explained

What are considered normal cat behaviours?

These are all perfectly normal common cat behaviours that most cat owners will experience at some point. 

Meowing

If you’re constantly wondering ‘why is my cat always meowing’ then you’ll be pleased to know cats have evolved to meow almost exclusively for humans. It’s their way of saying, “hey, pay attention to me!” Cats meow when they want something from people, whether that’s attention or food. 

Purring

Cats most often purr when they’re feeling content, relaxed and calm. Often, you’ll hear them purring if they’re settled on your lap for a good stroke. Purring creates low-frequency vibrations that may help the body heal, so cats can also purr if they’re in pain but it’s likely you’ll be able to know the difference. 

Tail wagging

A  wagging tail on a cat can signal multiple emotions. If your cat’s tail is moving quickly from side to side, this usually means they’re angry, annoyed or irritated. Watch out for sudden claws and teeth and consider giving them some space. 

If your cat’s tail is twitching at the end, this is a sign they’re in hunting mode or feeling playful. Time to bring out the toys. 

Rubbing against legs

If your kitty is rubbing against your legs, consider this a friendly greeting – the human equivalent of a hug or a handshake. Your cat is reacquainting itself with you and asking for affection in return. 

Rubbing against you can also be a way for your cat to scent mark. They’re letting the other cats in the neighbourhood know who you belong to using pheromones released through glands on their face. 

Exposing tummy

If your cat is happy to expose the most vulnerable part of its body, this is a sign of trust. Many people mistake this for a sign that their cat is asking for a belly rub, but most cats don’t enjoy having their tummy stroked, and cat lovers may quickly learn to regret offering. Try stroking a cat on its head if it chooses to show its belly – you’re less likely to be met with claws. 

Bringing gifts

Cats are natural predators. They haven’t been domesticated for as long as dogs, so the instinct to hunt is still strong – even if they’re getting plenty of food at home. If your cat is bringing home mice, birds or other small animals, you might interpret this as them bringing you a gift. 

In reality, cats usually bring their prey home because it’s a place they feel safe. Just like how leopards usually carry their kills high into the trees away from other predators, cats might bring a mouse home to enjoy it in the safety of the house. 

If you want to put a stop to your cat’s predatory behaviour, consider keeping them indoors at dusk and dawn when most wildlife come out, or getting them a collar with a bell so that birds, mice and other creatures are warned when they’re nearby. 

Some cats might bring home random objects – whether that’s leaves or branches, food items or even your neighbour’s washing. Again, their reason for doing this is so they can explore the objects in a safe place. They probably find the objects interesting and want to inspect them further. Just make sure to take anything that might be dangerous off them. 

Licking

If your cat licks you, other family members or pets, this is a sign of affection. It might feel a little sandpapery, but rest assured your kitty is showing you it loves you. 

Kneading 

If your cat looks like it’s trying to make bread in your lap, you know you’ve got yourself a content kitty. Cats knead to show their love and contentment, but they might also do it to try and soothe themselves into a calm mood.