5 Weird Cat Behaviors Explained

Cats are known for being agile and graceful. In the animal kingdom, they’re often referred to as ballerinas. But, as elegant as they are, sometimes they do stuff that may seem a-meow-singly strange for their owners. The good thing is, there’s an explanation behind these behaviors. Learn more about them below.

Burying Their Poo and Pee

Most owners often wonder why their kitties bury their organic waste after doing the deed. Scientists suggest that this practice is linked to their ancestors, an act of prevention and submission. In the wild, predators can easily pick up the scent of a cat’s urine and feces. So, weaker and smaller species hide them to not draw the attention of more dominant animals.

Meanwhile, bigger felines like tigers and jaguars don’t bury it. Instead, they mark their territory with it. In turn, your cats may hide theirs as an act of subordination.

Kneading and Making Biscuits

Experts don’t have a definite explanation as to why cats “make biscuits” on your lap, pillow, or anywhere that’s soft; but, a key speculation is that it’s from kneading their mother’s breast to stimulate milk flow.

This behavior may also date back to their predecessors or their feral cousins. In the wild, they pat down the surrounding grass or foliage to make a spot for giving birth or a bed to retire for the night.

Stretching When They Wake Up

Every day, felines sleep for 12 to 16 hours, sothey’re not moving for that time. And, when they sit still or take a nap, their blood pressure drops. To get their blood flowing again, they stretch. If you ever notice your cat sleeping for over 24 hours, take them to an emergency animal hospital right away.

Also, cats stretch for the same reason humans do – it feels good, plus it helps wake them up and make them more alert. It can also flush out toxins and the waste by-products that built up during those long periods of inactivity.

Hiding in Cramped Spaces

As an owner, you must’ve bought your cat its own bed. But, most of the time, they choose to cram into the tiniest spots, such as in a cardboard box or under the couch. These small spaces make them feel safe and secure.

This behavior stems from the time before cats were domesticated. In the wild, sleeping out in the open makes them an easy target for predators. So, their natural instinct is to hide in a cramped space to make it difficult for dominant animals to find them.

Chewing Non-Food Items

Sometimes, cats chew on weird things like socks, blankets, plastic bags, and rubber bands. This may mean that they havepica. Felines often get this condition from anxiety or a disorder in their gut. They munch on these non-food items as a way to calm their nerves.

You may also find your cats nibbling on the ferns in your house. This behavior is also linked to their ancestors. In the wild, eating grass can cure indigestion. So, if they feel bloated and gassy, they may start chewing on your plants. If that’s not the case, they may just be bored or curious about the taste of the greens.

But, remember, eating these items may be dangerous to their health. So, no matter the reason, it’s best to have your cat checked by a veterinarian at the best animal hospital in Jacksonville. You may also ask for pet vaccinations to give your pets the best defense to any complication or sickness.