They say that dogs are man’s best friends while cats are men’s masters.
They say that dogs are loyal companions, but cats are often seen as the true rulers of the household. With over 600 million cats worldwide, each one boasting its own distinct personality and quirks, it’s no wonder they’ve captivated humans since Ancient Egyptian times.
But, despite our long history with our feline furbabies, their behaviors still leave us scratching our head–from their soft meows to their soothing purrs. So, let’s discover the mysteries behind some of our favorite feline behaviors!
Why Do Cats Purr?
Well, it turns out they’re not just showing affection–they’re seeking relief. Whether it’s from bonding with their humans or easing their own pain, that soothing rumble is their way of finding comfort in the chaos of the world.
Why Do Cats Eat Their Kittens?
As macabre as it may seem, in the wild, it’s a matter of survival. From identifying stillborn offspring to conserving resources for the rest of the litter, it’s all about ensuring the strongest genes gets a chance to survive.
Why Do Cats Hate Water?
It’s not just about keeping their fur pristine–though that’s certainly part of it. Water weighs them down, triggering a primal fear response that sends them scrambling for dry land faster than you can say “bath time.” So, unless you’re prepared to face the wrath of a soggy kitty, it’s best to keep those water adventures to a minimum.
Why Do Cats Sleep A Lot?
Obviously, it’s not just because they’re lazy–though they certainly have a knack for lounging around. Cats clock in an impressive 15 hours of sleep each day, which serves several purposes such as to regulate their body temperature and conserve energy for their nocturnal hunting adventures.
Why Do Cats Mumble When They Fight?
It’s all about asserting dominance. When cats engage in combat, those low, rumbling meows are their way of throwing down and letting their opponent know who’s boss. It’s a bit like a dog’s growl or a lion’s roar–a warning shot before the claws come out.
Why Do Cats Meow?
Contrary to popular belief, cats don’t just meow at anyone who will listen. In fact, they reserve this vocalization exclusively for their human companions. But why? Well, it’s all thanks to evolution. Over years of living with humans, cats have adapted their meows to mimic the cries of infants, tugging at our heartstrings and ensuring they get the attention (and treats) they desire.
Why Do Cats Love Boxes?
Cats have a natural instinct to seek out small, confined spaces for safety and security. In the wild, they would hide away in caves or dense plants to avoid predators and sneak up on prey. Plus, the texture of cardboard boxes provides an irresistible scratching surface for their claws, and the scent of cardboard can be oddly satisfying to their senses.
Why Do Cats Knead?
You may have noticed your cat pushing and pulling their paws against a soft surface, like your lap or a cozy blanket. This behavior, known as kneading, serves a dual purpose. Firstly, it’s a throwback to kittenhood, when they would knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow and promote bonding. So, when your cat kneads you, it’s a sign of affection and comfort, reminiscent of those early days with mom. Secondly, cats have scent glands in their paw pads, so kneading also helps them mark their territory and claim you as their own human. It’s a sweet gesture that shows they feel safe and secure in your presence.
Why Do Cats Knock Things Over?
From vases to glasses to your carefully arranged knick-knacks, nothing seems safe from their mischievous paws. While it may seem like they’re just being naughty, there’s often a method to their madness. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and knocking things over is their way of exploring their environment and satisfying their innate hunting instincts. Plus, it’s a surefire way to grab your attention—whether they’re craving playtime or simply looking to shake up their routine.
Any more tactics that you have observed your feline furbaby did that you caught on cam? Share it to us in the comments below!
