Nearly 100 million cats are pets in the US and although no two are exactly alike, many of the them do have similar behaviors and act in very certain and specific ways in many situations. And why is that?
Here are some explanations, backed by cat researchers, as to just why our feline friends behave the way they do.
1. Why do cats sometimes suddenly bite or even scratch the person who is petting them?
According to a cat expert by the name of Arden Moore,” your cat is trying to say, “kindly stop petting me or I will bite harder.”
Dr. John Bradshaw says your cue to stop petting a cat may include such actions as tail-lashing, flattened ears, dilated pupils, and tense muscles.
Bradshaw also notes, that most cats like to be petted on their heads and fewer than one in 10 cats like to be stroked on their belly or around their tail.
2. Why do some cats intentionally knock objects off tables?
While some cats are clumsy, most cats will intentionally knock items off of surfaces as a ploy to get their owner’s attention.
3. Why do cats look you straight in the eye and then make a slow blink?
4. Why do cats love our computers so much?
Walking across your computer keyboard and attacking your screen may be the simplest way for your feline friend to gain your attention.
Then again, if your cat isn’t seeking your attention, researchers note these may be other reasons:
• Cats love the warmth of any computer.
• Keyboards feel super nice underneath a cat’s paws.
• Could there be anything more intriguing to a cat than watching and studying a computer screen?
5. Why do most cats suddenly freak out for no apparent reason?
Cats become frustrated when they are inactive and usually resort to running around in order to counteract their boredom.
“The slightest movement, perhaps even just a speck of dust caught in a shaft of light, can set them off,” Bradshaw noted.
6. Why do cats lick plastic bags as well as other nonfood items?
Cats that lick plastic bags may either be bored or trying to alleviate some kind of stress.
According to Moore, some cats were removed from their mothers’ milk before they were completely and correctly weaned, and therefore cats “seek out wool blankets and other clothing as a way to compensate for their shortened nursing time.”
7. Why do cats love cardboard boxes?
According to a study conducted by the University of Utrecht’s School of Veterinary Medicine, some cats hide in boxes as a way to reduce some short-term stress.
Cats crave protection, and a box is an ideal spot for any cat to observe its surroundings.
Source
Sources: Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015, University of Utrecht
