Cats are fascinating creatures with complex and often mysterious behaviour. Whether you’re a lifelong owner or a new parent, understanding the subtleties of your feline friend’s actions can help deepen the bond you share.
In the UK, cats are incredibly popular pets—around 11.9 million currently live in British households according to data published in June 2024. As more and more people adopt them, understanding how they think is becoming increasingly important for providing the best care.
In this article, we’ll help you make sense of your cat so you can be the best version of yourself for them.
Why do they purr?
Purring is one of the most iconic sounds a cat makes, but its purpose goes far beyond simply expressing contentment. While purrs often occur when they're being petted or relaxed, it can also signal stress, pain or even anxiety.
Another theory suggests that they make the sound as a form of communication, particularly between mothers and kittens. The babies begin doing it as early as two days old, and it's thought to help them bond with their parents.
Why do they scratch?
While it can be frustrating for owners who come home to shredded furniture, it’s important to remember that scratching serves several vital purposes. First, it helps to sharpen and maintain their claws. Cats have dead tissue at the tip of their claws, and this helps to shed this outer layer, keeping them healthy.
It’s also a way for them to mark their territory. When they scratch a surface, they leave behind a scent that signals ownership. This is particularly noticeable if you have multiple pets or if they feel threatened by changes in the household.
To prevent them from harming your furniture, providing them with cat scratching posts is essential. These give them a designated area to do it, helping to protect your goods while allowing them to express their natural instincts.
What is kneading?
Kneading is a behaviour that dates back to kittenhood. When they nurse, they do it on their mum’s belly to stimulate milk flow. Adults retain this trait, and it’s often associated with contentment.
Ultimately, when this action is performed by older felines, it can be a sign that they feel secure in their environment.
Decoding tail language
Their tail can tell you a lot about how they're feeling. They use this body part as a form of communication, and subtle movements can indicate different emotions. Here are some common positions and their meanings:
Up and straight: Confident, happy and content.
Curled at the tip: Content and relaxed.
Flicking or twitching: Irritation or excitement.
Puffed up: Scared or feeling threatened.
Understanding your cat’s behaviour may take time, but with a little patience, you’ll be able to better interpret their actions and provide them with the care and attention they need.
