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15 Weird Cat Behaviors Explained

“Grey Cat Stares” by Lucy Bridges is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Cats have strange habits that can leave us wondering what’s actually happening in their minds. While some of these behaviors might seem strange, they often have natural explanations rooted in instinct, communication, or health needs. So, let’s take a look at 15 unusual cat behaviors and what they could mean.

Head-Butting (Bunting)

“Reg and a ruler” by DanR is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

When your cat gives you a head-butt, it’s not just being affectionate—this is a big deal in the cat world! Cats have special scent glands on their cheeks and forehead, so when they press their heads into you, they’re leaving a bit of their scent behind. It’s like they’re saying, “Hey, you’re one of my people.” This is a behavior they usually reserve for those they really trust, so if your cat head-butts you, they’re treating you like family.

Chattering or Chirping at Birds

brown and white bird on brown dried leaves
Photo by Tom Bradley on Unsplash

Have you ever caught your cat making weird little chattering sounds while staring at birds or squirrels outside? It’s like they’re talking to them! This chirping sound is thought to be part excitement and part frustration. Your cat’s hunting instincts are kicked into high gear, but since they can’t actually pounce on their prey, they’re letting out a little “hunting talk.” 

Kneading with Their Paws

“Cat kneading and sucking blanket 1” by WatchduckYou can name the author as ‘T. Piesk’, ‘Tilman Piesk’ or ‘Watchduck’. is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

Watching a cat knead—pushing their paws in and out against a soft surface—is one of the sweetest sights. This behavior starts in kittenhood when kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. As adults, cats keep this comforting habit, especially when they’re relaxed. If your cat is kneading on you, it’s their way of saying, “I feel safe and happy with you.” 

Sudden, Intense Zoomies

“Showing off for the camera (1 of 3)” by Kerri Lee Smith is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Does your cat ever go from peacefully napping to tearing around the house like a wild thing? These sudden bursts of energy are called the “zoomies,” and they’re a normal part of cat life. Remember, cats are natural hunters and sprinters, so they need to release all that energy somehow, especially if they’re indoor cats who don’t get to chase prey. Zoomies often happen after eating or using the litter box because those routines can rev them up.

Slow Blinking at You

“Cat’s Staring” by Digging Dog is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

When a cat gives you a slow, gentle blink, it’s like they’re saying, “I trust you.” In cat language, slowly closing their eyes around someone means they feel completely safe. Cats usually reserve this gesture for their favorite humans (or other cats they trust), so if your cat gives you the “slow blink,” it’s a high compliment! You can even try giving a slow blink back—it’s a way of saying “I love you” in cat-speak, and it might even make them blink at you again.

Bringing You “Presents”

“mouse” by polandeze is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

When your cat brings you a real “catch” from outside—it’s not trying to scare you; it’s actually a big gesture. Cats are natural hunters, and in the wild, they would bring food back to their families. So, when your cat “shares” with you, they’re treating you like a member of their family. It’s also a little teaching moment; they’re showing you what they think is essential in life (hunting!). 

Licking You or Other Cats

You don’t say'” by Spamily is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Licking is how cats groom each other and show affection. When your cat licks you, they’re saying, “You’re one of us!” It’s a sign of trust and belonging since cats only groom those they care about. If your cat often licks you, they’re marking you with their scent and bringing you into their social circle. If they’re licking a lot, though, it might be a sign they’re feeling anxious, so pay attention to how often it happens.

Pawing or Digging Around Their Water Bowl

a black dog bowl with paw prints on it
Photo by Koa’link on Unsplash

Some cats have a funny habit of pawing around their water bowl, almost as if they’re trying to dig. This can be a leftover instinct from wild cats who might dig around water sources to find fresh water. It could also be that they’re checking the water level or just enjoying the ripples they create. If they seem obsessed with the water bowl, it might mean they’re unhappy with the water’s location or feel vulnerable drinking in that spot. 

Staring Intently at Nothing

“Popsy” by hehaden is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Cats have amazing senses, so when they stare off into space, it’s likely they’re picking up on something subtle—maybe a tiny insect or a sound we can’t hear. Their eyesight and hearing are so much more sensitive than ours, so they can detect faint movements or sounds that we would miss. Sometimes, they’re just zoning out, too, especially if they’re in a relaxed, observant mood.

Chewing on Plastic or Non-Food Items

Close-up Photo of Yawning Cat
Photo by Serena Koi on Pexels

If your cat has ever tried to nibble on a plastic bag or chew on random non-food items, they may be exploring textures or smells. This behavior, called “pica,” can happen for a few reasons—boredom, curiosity, or even a nutritional deficiency. Some cats just love the feel or smell of plastic! However, if this happens a lot, it might be a good idea to check in with your vet, as pica can sometimes be linked to health issues or anxiety.

Excessively Scratching Certain Areas

Short-coated Gray Cat
Photo by Krysten Merriman on Pexels

While scratching is normal for cats (it keeps their claws sharp and healthy), some cats fixate on certain areas, like door frames or furniture. They have scent glands in their paws, so they’re marking their territory while they scratch. If your cat is really going to town on one specific spot, they might be feeling anxious or marking their “territory” in response to stress. Providing scratching posts and extra playtime can help satisfy this need.

Laying on Your Stuff

“Do These Jeans Make Me Look Fat?” by Chiot’s Run is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

Cats have a way of plopping down on exactly what you need—your laptop, book, or clothes. They’re drawn to anything with your scent because it makes them feel close to you. Laying on your things is also their way of marking those items with their scent, claiming them as their own. It’s just a little reminder that they’re fond of you (and maybe a hint that they want your attention, too).

Sitting in Small or Confined Spaces

“20100728 – cats in a suitcase – 0 – Oranjello – IMG_1427” by Claire CJS is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Cats love cozy, enclosed spaces because they feel secure there. Boxes, bags, or small corners give them a sense of safety and control. In the wild, tight spaces offer protection from predators, so even indoor cats instinctively seek them out. Sitting in a small space also lets them observe without being too exposed, almost like a little hideout.

Following You to the Bathroom

“Curiously Nozka, the black cat in the bathroom sink” by daveynin is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Many cats insist on following their humans to the bathroom as if it’s their most important duty. This is partly curiosity—cats love routines, and your bathroom routine is no exception. Bathrooms also have cool textures and interesting smells that cats find appealing. Plus, they feel a little vulnerable when you’re out of sight, so they’re making sure you’re close by. It’s also possible they just like to keep tabs on you!

Sleeping on Your Chest or in Close Contact

a cat lying on a person's lap
Photo by Ilze on Unsplash

Cats sleep close to people they trust, and when they curl up on your chest, it’s their way of bonding with you. They’re drawn to your warmth, and the steady sound of your heartbeat may remind them of the safety they felt as kittens. Cats are naturally social sleepers, so if they’re sleeping on or near you, it’s a sign of affection and total relaxation—like they’re saying, “I’m safe with you.”

Written by Lisa O

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