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Decoding Your Cat's Behaviours

Cats are fascinating creatures. They've got this way of physically communicating in twitches, rubs, and pushes that can be tricky to understand. We’ll break down those behaviours so you can understand your cat even better.

Kneading or ‘making biscuits’ 

Ever seen your cat kneading? It’s the adorable way they massage their paws (and sometimes claws) into soft surfaces. So why do cats push with their paws?

• It all stems from their kitten days when they'd knead their mother in order to get milk. But when they’re grown up, it's a sign they feel comfy and content. 
• Kneading is also how cats show affection. You might see them do it to their favourite pillow, blanket, or even another cat they trust. Bonus points if your cat kneads you – it’s a sign of love.
• Pushing with their paws may also be because they’re trying to use the scent glands on their paws to mark their territory. 
• Cats will sometimes push with their paws to soothe themselves if they’re feeling stressed. It’s nothing to worry about, just be gentle with them as best you can.

Head boops and pushes

Most pet parents know cats are big on personal space, but they've also got a funny way of showing affection. Well, you might be familiar with the head boop, push, or 'bunting' as it's officially known. When your cat gently pushes their head against you (or the furniture), they're actually leaving their scent – a message to the world that this is theirs. There’s no visible mark (just love), so don’t worry about anything getting on your clothes. Head boops or ‘bunting’ is also a sign they trust you enough to get up close and personal. You don’t have to do much when this happens, just take it in and adore their cuteness. 

Landing on their feet

Cats are almost like superheroes when it comes to sticking landings. This amazing ‘right way up’ reflex lets them twist their bodies mid-air and land comfortably. While amazing to watch in action, this instinctual physical behaviour mainly helps them avoid nasty injuries. Keep an eye on them just in case.

Scratching things

We've all been there – the dreaded sound of claws on furniture... But before you sigh in defeat, remember that scratching is totally natural for cats. It's how they shed the outer layer of their claws, stretch their muscles, and even mark their territory. The trick is to give them a dedicated scratching post (or two!) so they can satisfy their instincts without turning your couch into a scratching post.

Rubbing their body against things 

If your cat tends to wind itself around your legs – let them! This is a cat’s way of saying hello, showing affection, and leaving their mark. Scent glands are located all over their face and body, so when they rub, they're basically saying they trust you.

Next up in the series 

That's a wrap on some cat body language! Keep an eye out for our next article, where we'll decipher those verbal behaviours like meows, purrs, and chirps. In the meantime, give your cat a scratch behind the ears and remember – every cat is unique, so pay attention to their individual quirks and you'll be fluent in ‘purr’ in no time!

Ready to learn more about your cat's behaviour? Check out our Guide to Purrrfect Living!

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