Cats have a reputation for being mysterious, independent, and sometimes a little unpredictable. One minute they’re curling up in your lap, the next they’re sprinting through the house like they’ve spotted something invisible. The truth is, cats are constantly communicating through a number of different ways, we may just not immediately understand.
Learning what common cat behaviors mean can help you better care for your cat, strengthen your bond, and spot potential issues early. Below, we break down some of the most common feline behaviors and what your cat may be trying to tell you.
Why Understanding Cat Behavior Matters
Cats rely on body language, vocalizations, and habits to express how they’re feeling. When we understand these signals, we’re better equipped to support their emotional well-being, reduce stress, and create a calmer home environment.
Common Cat Behaviors Explained
Slow Blinking
When your cat looks at you and slowly closes and opens their eyes, it’s often referred to as a “cat kiss.”
What it means:
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Trust and affection
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A relaxed, non-threatening signal
You can return the gesture by slow blinking back, as many cats may respond positively to this.
Tail Flicking and Movement
A cat’s tail is one of their most expressive features and an important part of cat body language to understand.
Common tail signals include:
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Upright tail: Friendly, confident, and happy
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Puffed-up tail: Fear or feeling threatened
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Fast flicking or lashing: Overstimulation or irritation
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Tail wrapped around the body: Uncertainty or nervousness
Kneading
If your cat presses their paws in and out on a soft surface, or on you, they’re kneading. This is also affectionately referred to as “making biscuits.” This behavior starts in kittenhood, when kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow.
What it means:
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Comfort and contentment
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A sign your cat feels safe and relaxed
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Marking territory using scent glands in their paws
Purring
Purring is often associated with happiness, but it can mean more than just contentment.
What it means:
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Relaxation and affection
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Self-soothing during stress or discomfort
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Sometimes used when a cat is unwell or anxious
Context matters here — pay attention to body language and surroundings to better understand why your cat is purring.
Meowing
Adult cats rarely meow at each other — this behavior is largely reserved for humans.
What it means:
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A request for food, attention, or play
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A greeting
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Sometimes a sign of stress or discomfort
Cats often develop unique “meows” for their humans, so patterns matter.
Scratching
Scratching is a completely normal and necessary behavior for cats.
What it means:
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Marking territory visually and with scent
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Stretching muscles and maintaining claw health
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Releasing energy or stress
Providing appropriate scratching surfaces can help redirect this behavior away from furniture.
Zoomies
Sudden bursts of energy, often in the evening, are common, especially in indoor cats.
What it means:
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Pent-up energy
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Natural hunting instincts
Regular interactive play can help channel this energy in a positive way. For some fun enrichment ideas to exhaust that hunting instinct, check out our blog, How to Make Your Own DIY Pet Toys.
Just like with dogs, changes in behavior can also be an early sign that something isn’t quite right; whether it’s stress, discomfort, or a health concern.
Signs of Stress or Discomfort in Cats
Every cat has their own quirks and routines. Paying attention to your cat’s “normal” makes it easier to spot when something is off. These subtle shifts can give you important clues about how they’re feeling and alert you to signs of their discomfort.
Some behaviors may signal that your cat is feeling stressed or unwell:
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Hiding more than usual
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Excessive grooming or over-grooming
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Changes in appetite or litter box habits
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Increased aggression or withdrawal
If these behaviors persist or appear suddenly, it’s best to consult your veterinarian.
Supporting Your Cat’s Well-Being
Understanding your cat’s behavior is one of the best ways to support their overall health and happiness. A calm environment, consistent routines, enrichment through play, and gentle grooming can all help reduce stress and keep your cat feeling their best. If your cat is one of the many who finds traditional bath time stressful, you can keep them fresh and comfortable without the struggle. Our Hypoallergenic Cat Grooming Foam is a great waterless way to maintain their coat while keeping their stress levels low. When your cat feels understood and comfortable in their routine, your bond will only continue to grow.
