Cats · Behaviour
Cat Behaviour Explained
Cats are subtle communicators. These guides explain the most common behaviours owners search for — organized by what they usually mean — using veterinary and feline-behaviour sourcing.
What’s Your Cat Doing?
Tap a behaviour for a fast, sourced answer.
Meowing at NightBiting Then LickingKneadingFollowing MeStaringScratching FurnituresoonHidingsoonPurringsoonHissingsoonKnocking Things OverSleeping on MeHeadbutting MeZoomiessoonBringing Me ToysEating GrasssoonWaking Me UpPeeing Outside the Litter Boxsoon
Affection & Attachment
How cats show trust and form bonds — often more subtly than dogs do.
Why Does My Cat Follow Me Everywhere?Usually attention-seeking, habit, or a genuine attachment bond — here's what the research says and when to take note.Why Does My Cat Follow Me to the Bathroom?Likely curiosity about an off-limits room and running water, layered on ordinary attachment — not a special separate drive.Why Does My Cat Sleep on Me?A mix of warmth, safety, and trust — sleeping on you in a vulnerable position is generally read as a sign of real attachment.Why Does My Cat Headbutt Me?A deliberate scent-marking and bonding gesture cats reserve for people and animals they trust — one of the clearest signs of affection.Why Does My Cat Knead Me?A normal, comforting instinct traced back to kitten nursing — usually a clear sign of contentment and trust, not a problem.
Communication & Vocalisation
What a cat's eyes, mouth and voice are actually telling you.
Why Does My Cat Stare at Me?Context is everything — a relaxed, blinking gaze usually means trust, while a hard, unblinking stare signals tension.Why Does My Cat Meow at Night?Usually a natural activity pattern or attention-seeking habit, but new night-time yowling in an older cat can have a medical cause.Why Does My Cat Bite Me Then Lick Me?Usually overstimulation from petting or affectionate love-bites paired with grooming-style licking — rarely a sign of real aggression.
Everyday Cat Instincts
Hunting and investigative instincts that show up in ordinary home life.
Why Does My Cat Bring Me Toys (or Prey)?Experts don't fully agree — it may be safety-driven instinct, or a form of sharing and teaching, but the hunting drive itself is universal.Why Does My Cat Knock Things Over?Usually curiosity and hunting instinct, plus a learned trick for getting your attention — not spite or deliberate naughtiness.