10 Weird Cat Behaviors You're Not Sure About

Cats are mysterious creatures, and their behavior can often be confusing. From kneading to head-butting, cats have some strange habits that can leave us scratching our heads. If you’ve ever wondered why your cat does certain things, you’re not alone. Here are 10 weird cat behaviors you’re not sure about.

1. Kneading

Kneading is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling content. It’s when they press their paws against a soft surface, like a blanket or your lap, and move them back and forth. This behavior is thought to be a remnant of kittenhood, when they knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk production. Cats may also knead when they’re feeling stressed or anxious, so it’s important to pay attention to your cat’s body language to determine why they’re kneading.

2. Head-Butting

Head-butting, also known as bunting, is when cats rub their heads against you or an object. This behavior is thought to be a way for cats to mark their territory with their scent. Cats have scent glands on their faces, so when they rub their heads against something, they’re leaving their scent behind. Head-butting is also a sign of affection, so if your cat is head-butting you, it’s a sign that they trust and love you.

3. Chattering

Chattering is a behavior cats often display when they’re watching birds or other animals outside. It’s when they make a chattering sound with their teeth and lips. This behavior is thought to be a sign of excitement and frustration, as cats can’t get to the animals they’re watching. If your cat is chattering, it’s a sign that they’re interested in what they’re seeing and would like to get closer.

4. Spraying

Spraying is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling threatened or stressed. It’s when they spray urine on objects or surfaces to mark their territory. This behavior is usually seen in unneutered male cats, but it can also be seen in female cats. If your cat is spraying, it’s important to take them to the vet to get them spayed or neutered. This will help reduce their stress levels and reduce the likelihood of them spraying.

5. Grooming

Grooming is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling content. It’s when they lick and bite their fur to keep it clean and free of parasites. Cats also groom each other as a sign of affection. If your cat is grooming you, it’s a sign that they trust and love you. Grooming is also a way for cats to bond with each other, so if you have multiple cats, you may see them grooming each other.

6. Staring

Staring is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling curious or alert. It’s when they fix their gaze on something for an extended period of time. Cats are naturally curious creatures, so they may be staring at something that has caught their attention. If your cat is staring at you, it’s a sign that they’re interested in what you’re doing and would like to interact with you.

7. Hiding

Hiding is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling scared or stressed. It’s when they hide in small, enclosed spaces, like under the bed or in a closet. Cats are naturally skittish creatures, so they may hide when they’re feeling scared or overwhelmed. If your cat is hiding, it’s important to give them some space and let them come out when they’re ready.

8. Eating Grass

Eating grass is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling sick or stressed. It’s when they eat grass or other plants to help them vomit and expel toxins from their bodies. Cats may also eat grass to supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals. If your cat is eating grass, it’s important to take them to the vet to make sure they’re not sick.

9. Meowing

Meowing is a behavior cats often display when they’re trying to communicate with you. It’s when they make a high-pitched sound to get your attention. Cats meow for a variety of reasons, from wanting food to wanting attention. If your cat is meowing, it’s important to pay attention to their body language to determine why they’re meowing.

10. Sleeping in Strange Positions

Sleeping in strange positions is a behavior cats often display when they’re feeling comfortable and secure. It’s when they curl up in a tight ball or stretch out in an awkward position. Cats sleep in strange positions because they feel safe and secure in their environment. If your cat is sleeping in strange positions, it’s a sign that they feel safe and secure in your home.

Cats have some strange behaviors that can leave us scratching our heads. From kneading to head-butting, cats have some weird habits that can be confusing. By understanding why cats do certain things, you can develop a stronger bond with them and better understand their behavior. So the next time your cat does something weird, take a moment to observe and try to figure out why they’re doing it.