Cat Behavior

This category of articles focuses on exploring the fascinating world of cat behavior.

From understanding why cats knead to decoding their body language, these articles delve into the many quirks and characteristics that make our feline friends so unique.

With insights from experts in the field, readers can gain a deeper understanding of their cat’s behavior and learn practical tips for how to improve their relationship with their furry companion.

Orange tabby sleeping.

Why Cats Sleep A Lot

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats can sleep up to 70% of their day.

Closeup of a gray tabby cat's face.

How Well Can Cats Smell?

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats have a keen sense of smell that they use to hunt, determine enemies, and find mates.

A black and white cat lying on the floor holding his back leg while grooming. He is licking his lips and the rug is a light blue color.

11 Things to Know about Cat Grooming

Caitlin Dempsey

The typical cat spends a lot of time grooming.

An orange tabby cat eating treats from a white dish.

Cats Don’t Have a Sweet Tooth

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats, including the domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus), are believed to be the only animal that is unable to taste sweetness.

A gray tabby cat trying to catch a bird at a bird feeder.

Study: Safety is the Biggest Reason People Keep Their Cats Indoors

Caitlin Dempsey

While environmentalists advocate keeping cats indoors to minimize predation on native species, a new study indicated that the top reason people keep their cats home is for safety.

An orange tabby cat eating treats from a white dish.

Food Obsession in Cats

Caitlin Dempsey

Food-obsessed cats will consume all of their food as soon as it is placed in front of them, and will continue to beg for more even after they have had their fill.

A gray cat inside a cat tunnel toy.

Why Do Cats Like Crinkly Toys?

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats are attracted to paper grocery bags, wrapping paper, crinkly tunnels, and noisy toys.

Twenty-four consecutive images of a cat running. Photos: Eadweard Muybridge, 1887.

How High Can Cats Jump?

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats are powerful jumpers.

Gray tabby cat licking a bathtub.

Why Do Cats Like to Lick Bathtubs?

Caitlin Dempsey

No one knows for sure why cats like to lick the sides of a bathtub, although there are a few ideas floating around.

An orange tabby in a crouching position on a lawn.

How to Understand the Language of Cat Tails

Caitlin Dempsey

One surprising way cats can communicate their emotions is through their tails.

A barn cat looks down from a ledge.

Cats Don’t Have a Problem With Strangers Who are Mean to Their Owners

Explore Cats Contributor

Researchers found cats – unlike dogs – don’t avoid strangers who refuse to help their owners.