Cat behaviour: why does my cat do that?
Cat behaviour in plain words. Almost everything your cat does has a reason: comfort, hunting, scent or sometimes pain. Read why cats purr, what the tail is saying and why a cat pees outside the box. Or read your cat's body language below from its tail, with a photo for each position. Every question also says when to see a vet.
Why do cats purr?Purring is a low, steady rumble from the throat: mostly about feeling relaxed or close, sometimes a request or a way to calm down.
Why do cats swish or wag their tails?A cat shows its mood through the height, shape, speed and fur of its tail.
Why does my cat pee outside the litter box?A cat that pees in the house, on the bed, the couch or the floor, usually has pain, a box it dislikes or stress. Never spite.
Cat body language: read the tail
A tail chart you can tap: seeing this tail? Tap the photo to read what your cat means, how it feels and whether to go up to it. We start with the tail; ears, eyes and posture follow.
Questions about cat behaviour
How can you tell a cat feels content?
A content cat often walks up to you with its tail straight up, rubs against your legs, leans on you or blinks slowly. Calm purring with half-closed eyes usually goes with it, but purring alone does not tell you everything: look at the body too.
How does a cat show it loves you?
A tail curled around your leg or arm is a sign of affection and trust. A tail held straight up when it greets you, rubbing against you, sitting close, slow blinks and calm purring near you also show it feels at home with you.
My cat's behaviour has changed. When should I see a vet?
When behaviour changes without a clear reason, think of pain or illness first. A cat that suddenly pees outside the box should see a vet first, and a male cat straining without peeing needs a vet the same day. Purring while hiding or not eating, or a tail hanging limp after a fall, are reasons to call too.