Things Cats Love to Do Whenever They Can

One question many ask is why cats often approach people who seem indifferent or even dislike them at every opportunity. If you're not a "cat person," it may seem odd when a friend's moggy jumps on your lap despite your avoiding eye contact or interaction. While it's easy to understand a cat approaching someone eager to pet or play, what prompts them to seek out someone who hasn't shown interest?

See Things From a Cat's Point of View

Understanding cat behaviour means viewing things through their eyes. People who love cats often invite attention by looking directly into a cat's eyes, bending forward, using high-pitched sounds—actions that cats may interpret as threatening. Conversely, someone who ignores the feline and avoids eye contact is displaying non-threatening behaviour. To the cat, this is friendly, encouraging them to come over to say hello or seek cuddles, often surprising the person unaccustomed to cat communication.

What Eye Contact With Cats is All About

Direct eye contact in the animal world, including with cats, is often seen as confrontational. Cats interpret a steady gaze as a threat. However, slow blinking while looking at a cat signals trust and affection. Many cats respond by blinking back slowly—a significant compliment in feline language and a bridge to developing a bond.

Cats Love to Play – Especially at Night!

Play is essential for cats, particularly since many are nocturnal and sleep during the day. Night-time bursts of energy involving chasing toys, pouncing, or interactive games help hone their natural hunting skills and provide vital mental and physical exercise. Adult cats enjoy play just as much as kittens, making engaging play a key part of a happy feline life.

Cats Adore Bags & Boxes

Cardboard boxes, paper bags, suitcases, and handbags offer ideal hiding and exploration spots for cats, satisfying their natural curiosity and love of confined spaces. Offering your cat a simple box or bag can provide hours of fun watching their antics. It’s important to avoid plastic bags, as cats risk entanglement and suffocation.

Cats Love Getting Lots of Attention

Most cats enjoy human company and affectionate touch, though personalities vary from sociable to reserved. Even independent cats usually welcome occasional gentle strokes behind the ears or under the chin. This contact not only benefits cats’ emotional health but brings joy and stress relief to their owners, fostering a mutually rewarding relationship.

Cats Adore Being Scritched & Scratched

Many cats appreciate gentle scritches behind the ears or under the chin and enjoy strokes along their back. Some cats are more particular about touch; while a few tolerate belly rubs, these usually should be brief as the belly is a vulnerable area. Knowing your cat’s preferences strengthens trust and comfort.

Cats Love Catnip

Catnip, a mint-family herb, is irresistible to many cats. They often roll in it, rub against plants, and become playfully frolicsome, seemingly "high" on the scent. Growing catnip in pots or gardens offers a natural enrichment. You can also find toys filled with dried catnip in most reputable pet shops.

Cats Adore Scratching, Stretching & Stropping

Scratching is a natural behaviour that helps cats stretch muscles, shed claw sheaths, and mark territory. To protect furniture and carpets, invest in sturdy, enjoyable scratching posts placed near usual scratching spots. Encouraging this activity helps maintain your cat’s physical health and satisfies instincts positively.

Cats Love Sunshine & Lounging in It!

Cats delight in lying where they can soak up the sun, despite having thick fur. Whether on a sunny windowsill, garden spot, or even a warm car bonnet, basking in sunshine supports relaxation and warmth, contributing to their wellbeing.

Cats Adore Being Up High

Climbing to elevated places is popular with cats. Being perched on tree branches, atop wardrobes, or kitchen cupboards gives cats a commanding view, helping them feel secure and in control. This vertical space is vital for their natural instincts and adds stimulation.

Cats Love Watching Wildlife From the Windowsill

Perching indoors on a windowsill to watch birds, squirrels, or outdoor activity is a favourite pastime. This "cat TV" provides mental stimulation, satisfies hunting instincts safely, and often elicits tail swishes and playful sounds from your feline companion.

And Finally Cats Adore Sleeping

Cats spend a large portion of their lives sleeping—up to 18 hours a day. Having favourite comfortable spots to snooze supports their health, helping them conserve energy for bursts of activity. Providing safe, cosy areas for rest is essential for their wellbeing.

Responsible Cat Ownership and Enrichment

Understanding these feline behaviours helps guardians provide a supportive environment that respects cats’ natural instincts and preferences. Enriching your cat’s life with play, scratching posts, safe climbing opportunities, and attention builds a deep bond and promotes happiness. Remember to observe and respect your cat’s individual needs to foster a lifelong loving companionship.