What is Cat Behavior?

By Doris Canova

Cat behavior is often misunderstood because of our inability to read their body language correctly. Cats are just like humans, use body language to communicate and broadcast information about their feelings and moods, desires, likes and dislikes. Cat behavior is not an area where mere humans can exercise a great deal of control. Cat behavior is, I think, every bit as complicated as human behavior, with the drawback that cats don't express themselves verbally, so all we have to go on is body language. Ears that are beginning to press down means the cat is getting annoyed. If the ears are so flat against the head that you cannot see them, the cat is ready to attack. Early socialization, then, becomes very important in a kitten's development.

Humans have lived with cats for thousands of years, and there are now more cats kept in Western households than any other animal. Cherished as companions and valued as rodent catchers, their rather strange behavior has intrigued and amused us for generations. Humans have spent generations selecting just the right cats that aren't scared of humans and that we associate with pleasure and family.

With cat behavior, when a cat is purring that can be a sign of pleasure or pain; usually it is the former. Scientists have not yet been able to discover how purring works, but it is suspected that it is caused by minute vibrations in their voice box. Many people assume that a purring cat is content and happy which is what purring generally indicates. Hissing, spitting, and snarling are expressions of fear, anger, or dissatisfaction. Purring therefore can be a sign of pleasure or pain; usually it is pleasure.

Kittens purr to let their mother know they are nearby and everything is ok. In adult cat behavior, purring will let others know they are friendly and not a threat. Kittens, especially, needs other kittens for companionship. Like any young animal, they need stimulus, activity, play toys, and grooming. Kittens are born with closed eyes and folded down ears. It takes five to ten days before they first see the light of day. Kittens do seem to like to play in the litter pan. They usually grow out of it, but in the mean time, a higher sided litter pan is probably a good idea

Imagine your being a cat sitting home all day with the curtains closed with nothing to do and no one to play with. If you lived in the wild your natural cat behavior would lead you to watch birds and bugs, roam, chase, jump, hide, pounce and spend half a day happily looking for a mouse to eat. If you're relying on your visit to the vet to solve your problem, you can forget about it. Cat behavior is about the cat just being home with the curtains closed and nothing to do or with anyone to play or interact with, so it is necessary for them to have things to play with push around and pounce on and the like.

NOTE: This article is for information only. See your veterinarian for medical advice.

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