Many new cat owners are surprised by certain behaviors that are completely normal for felines. For example, kneading, where cats press their paws against soft surfaces, is a comforting behavior rooted in kittenhood. Chasing or pouncing on seemingly random objects is instinctual play, even if there’s nothing visible to us. Another common surprise is cat head-butting or "bunting," which is a sign of affection and a way for cats to mark their territory with scent glands located on their heads. Scratching is also often confusing, but it’s a natural behavior for stretching, marking territory, and keeping their claws healthy. Lastly, cats can be very independent and may not always want to be cuddled or held, which can be confusing to new owners who are used to more social pets. Understanding these behaviors can help new owners develop a better bond with their cat and recognize that these actions are perfectly normal!

If a cat owner could only learn 3 things about cat behavior, what would those be?

If a cat owner could only learn three things about cat behavior, they should understand that cats are independent but show affection in subtle ways, like purring or sitting close to you. Scratching is a natural behavior for marking territory and keeping claws healthy, so providing scratching posts is important. Lastly, play is essential for a cat’s well-being, as it mimics hunting behavior and provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Recognizing and respecting these behaviors helps foster a strong bond with your cat and ensures a happy, healthy relationship.

What's the biggest misconception people have about why cats do what they do?

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about cats is that they are aloof or indifferent, when in reality, cats are simply more independent in how they show affection compared to other pets. Many people believe that if a cat isn’t constantly seeking attention, it doesn’t care about them, but in truth, cats often express affection in more subtle ways, like sitting nearby, purring, or following their owners around. This independence is part of their natural behavior, and it’s important to understand that they can be loving and loyal in their own unique way, just without the constant need for physical closeness or attention.

What's a weird or funny cat behavior you've learned about from cat owners?

One funny cat behavior I’ve learned from cat owners is how some cats love to "help" with everyday tasks, like typing on a keyboard or sitting on top of paperwork. It’s like they can’t resist being involved! Some cats even "assist" by walking across the keyboard, sending random letters or even emailing their owners’ friends. Another hilarious behavior is when cats suddenly "zoom" around the house at full speed for no apparent reason, often called the "zoomies." It’s a burst of energy that leaves owners laughing and wondering what just happened! These quirky behaviors show just how playful and unpredictable cats can be.