Understanding a Cat's Emotions
A cat's thoughts and feelings are not something you can fully understand just by looking at its facial expressions!
Every little movement and every pose actually hides a wealth of emotions and ideas.
Cats communicate in subtle ways beyond their faces. Their tail flicks, ear positions, body posture, and even the way they move can tell you how they are feeling—whether they are content, curious, anxious, or playful.
To truly understand your feline friend, observe their entire behavior and context. This will help you respond better to their needs and strengthen the bond you share.
The following collects four peculiar behaviors of cats that the owners have witnessed with their own eyes but cannot understand. They have also sought advice from veterinarian and behavior expert Maura Nyuk to uncover the psychological significance behind these actions.
1. Why Cats Wrap Their Tails on Cat Trees
One cat owner, H, shared about their cat Jack (male): "My cat often wraps his tail around the posts or shelves of the cat tree. Even when sleeping next to me, he gently wraps his tail around my arm!"
A veterinarian explains that this behavior might simply be to maintain balance. The tail naturally helps stabilize the body, and perhaps the position on the cat tree provides a secure support point for the tail.
As for wrapping the owner's arm, it's definitely a sign of extreme friendliness and intimacy!
2. Understanding Cats' Wall and Curtain Licking Behavior
Licking walls and curtains: "Sometimes when I am busy doing house chores and can't pay attention to my cat, or when I wake up late on weekends, my cat runs to lick the kitchen walls or curtains," says M, a cat owner of a male cat named Danjirou.
Veterinarians explain that this behavior is actually how cats relieve inner dissatisfaction and anxiety through their actions. It might be because the food the cat wants has not yet appeared, or because the cat wants affection but has not received any response from its owner.
To ease these feelings of frustration and unease, the cat turns to licking the walls.
3. Understanding Why Your Cat Places Its Tail on Your Foot
"When I come home from work, my cat often just places its tail on my foot. If I pet it, it will turn around and look at me." — Owner H, cat named Goro (male).
Veterinarians explain that when cats greet each other, they raise their tails high and gently touch or intertwine tails. This is their way of showing friendliness.
If your cat places its tail on your foot, it might be saying "Welcome back," or hinting, "Pet me, please."
4. Why Does My Cat Stick Its Head Out of the Cat Tree Hole and Stay Still?
A cat owner shared an interesting behavior of her cat named Xiao Wu (female):
"My cat once stuck her head out of the hole in the cat tree and just stayed still! She had her eyes closed and didn't move at all, looking just like a statue of Buddha."
According to a veterinarian's explanation, if a cat has its eyes closed, its head slightly lowered, but its ears remain upright and relaxed, this indicates that the cat feels very calm and secure. Its whole body muscles are relaxed. The cat simply finds this position very comfortable and relaxing, so it quietly enjoys the moment.
The Mysteries Behind Your Cat's Quirky Behaviors
Our feline friends are full of surprising and adorable mysteries. As you begin to understand the true meanings behind their peculiar behaviors, you'll find yourself loving your furry companion even more!
