Why Do They Do That? Cat Behaviors

What is the ‘elevator butt’ thing cats do when you pet them? What about kneading? How about licking plastic? Are these good or bad behaviors? How about the booty scoot across the rug? Interpreting cat behavior involves considering the context and each cat's personality. These behaviors are usually natural and not problematic, but any sudden changes or extreme behaviors should be observed and, if necessary, discussed with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Elevator Butt

Please to see you my dear…elevator going up!

• Elevator Butt (Raised Tail): When a cat raises its tail, often resembling an elevator going up, it's a sign of excitement, happiness, or affection. Cats may do this when they are pleased with your attention or when they are greeting you. It's generally considered a positive behavior.

• Kneading: Kneading is a behavior where a cat pushes its paws in and out against a soft surface, such as your lap or a blanket. This behavior is often associated with contentment and goes back to kittenhood when they kneaded their mother's belly to stimulate milk flow. Kneading is generally a sign of comfort and relaxation.

• Licking Plastic: Cats may lick or chew on plastic due to curiosity, stress, or dental issues. Some are drawn to certain textures or scents. Excessive licking of non-food items can pose a choking hazard, potentially leading to ingestion of harmful substances or causing digestive issues. If this behavior is observed excessively, consulting a veterinarian is advisable to ensure the cat's well-being and address any potential choking risks. If your cat exhibits this behavior excessively, it's advisable to consult with a vet.

Butt Scoot Boogie

Time to get out the Swiffer Jet for this Aaaaugh moment!

• Butt Scoot Boogie: Cats may scoot their butts across the rug for various reasons, and it could be a sign of discomfort or irritation. The most common reason is anal sac issues. Anal sacs, located on either side of the anus, can become impacted or infected, causing discomfort. By scooting, cats may attempt to alleviate the irritation or express the contents of their anal sacs. However, this behavior could also indicate other issues such as allergies, intestinal worms, or skin problems. If persistent scooting is observed, consulting with a veterinarian is recommended to identify and address the underlying cause.

• Rubbing Up Against: Cats rub against people to communicate and bond, marking them with scent glands to establish familiarity and ownership. This positive and affectionate gesture signifies comfort and trust. Additionally, by transferring scent through paw glands, cats create a communal scent, fostering a sense of belonging. In summary, a cat's rubbing behavior is a combination of marking with scent, expressing affection, and establishing familiarity.

• Lay On Your Chest and Purr: Cats lay on your chest and purr as a way of seeking warmth, expressing affection, feeling secure, marking territory, and enjoying social connection. It's a behavior that reflects comfort and a strong bond between you and your feline friend.

Understanding cat behavior requires attention to context and the cat's unique personality. While these behaviors are typically natural, sudden changes or extremes warrant observation. If concerns arise, consulting a veterinarian is crucial to ensure there are no underlying health issues.

Lay On Your Chest and Purr

A cat purring on your lap [or chest] is more healing than any drug in the world, as the vibrations you are receiving are of pure love and contentment.” — St. Francis of Assisi

Cat Language Bible: Japanese study shows that cats can understand human emotions, even words. Click link for more…

1. Hover over the product 2. Click the square that appears 3. Product sidebar appears

Disclaimer: This page contains additional affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your consideration.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you.