Cats make wonderful companions, but they can sometimes be weird, like bumping their heads against us, napping in tight spots, giving unwanted gifts, and a lot of other odd behaviors. What do they mean?
- Head Bumping
When your cat bops you with their head, they’re saying, “I love you!” They’re also letting everyone know that you belong to them. Cats have pheromones in their cheek areas that mark you as their possession. But don’t worry if your cat doesn’t headbutt you, there are lots of other ways cats show their love.
- Chewing on weird things
Some cats chew on weird things, like blankets, socks, plastic bags, or rubber bands. This behavior can be due to boredom, anxiety, or illness. It can also occur in cats who were weaned too early and feel the urge to “nurse” on soft items, like stuffed animals or blankets. This habit is dangerous since it can cause choking, intestinal blockages, and other problems. If your cat is chewing on inedible things, you should visit your veterinarian to figure out the cause and best course of treatment.
- Napping in tight places
Cats love to slip into small spaces like boxes, dresser drawers, bathroom cabinets, or closet corners where they feel cozy and secure. They may even prefer these places more than a comfy pet bed. This behavior can be caused by their wildcat ancestors who would sleep safely hidden away to help avoid predators.
- Giving ‘Gifts’
Cats are infamous for leaving us unwanted gifts, such as dead mice or birds. This is actually their way of thanking us for all we do for them. While you should feel honored that your cat wanted to share their goods with you, you should avoid making a big deal about it. Don’t punish your cat for this behavior, but don’t praise them either or you could end up with more ‘gifts’. While it won’t stop your cat from bringing mice or other wildlife indoors, you can help prevent gift giving by keeping your cat inside at all times.
Works Cited
ASPCA Pet Health Insurance
https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/14-weird-cat-behaviors-explained/
