In this video, we’ll explore the science behind cat stretching and explain the reasons why cats stretch when they see their humans.
To greet you
More often than not, cats stretch as a way of greeting you and saying Hello. The stretch is a sign of trust. It’s your cat’s way of telling you that they feel comfortable in your presence. Your cat feels so safe and at ease with you that they are not afraid to stretch and be vulnerable.
To seek attention
One of the main reasons why cats stretch when you are around is to get your attention.
Cats are intelligent animals. They know that if they do something cute, there's a good chance they'll receive something in return, like some pets, treats or just a bit of your focus.
Stretching serves as their way of saying, “Hey, Look at me. I am here. See how cute I am.”
To Prepare for Activities
Another reason why cats stretch is to get their body in motion. Like humans, cats need to stretch to warm up their muscles after sleeping or resting.
When your cat sees you, it's likely that they've just woken up from a nap and they are stretching to become active and ready for whatever comes next.
To Mark Their Territory:
Cats also stretch to mark their territory by leaving pheromone markings, so other cats know they live there.
In the same way the cats will love to rub against their owners and mark to claim them, scent marking via stretching is often done in an effort to claim various portions of the home.
To Cool Down
Another reason why cats stretch is to cool down. When the weather gets hot, cats often find a spot on cool pavement or grass, stretching out all four limbs.
Why cats make bird noises
Cats are known for their fast and intense teeth chattering, or as some will call it bird noises.
This chattering is often observed when a cat spots a bird or rodent outside of a window.
Cat behaviorists believe that cats chatter in a response to the excitement of seeing their hunt, and the frustration of not being able to catch it. This chattering could be your cat's way of communicating their excitement, frustration, or aggression towards their prey.
Eating Non-Food Items
Does your cat regularly try to chew on non-edible items such as plastic, cloth, sweaters, bags, or electrical cords? This could be a sign of a rare condition in cats called pica.
Some proposed reasons include mineral deficiencies, hyperthyroidism, genetics, boredom, and stress.
Licking After They Bite
Have you ever experienced your cat giving you a bite, only to be followed by a curious licking session?
If your cat licks then bites you out of the blue, then you might be in the presence of a love bite. Cats often bite to show affection. But only with gentle and more controlled nibbles.
But remember, if you are actively petting your cat and they give your finger a lick or two, and then a nice chomp, it might be that they have had enough of your pets and are overstimulated.
Why do cats lick you?
Licking is often a form of grooming and expressing affection. By licking you, they're marking you with their scent, which is a way of claiming you as their own.
Why cats show their bellies when they see you
When a cat shows you their belly, it means the cat is relaxed, comfortable, and doesn't feel threatened. They feel safe enough to expose their vulnerable areas without worrying about being attacked. it is a sign that your cat fully trusts you and feel safe with you.
Cats also expose their bellies as a way of saying hello to you. They are happy to see you and hope to get some attention, treats or pets.
Why cats ignore you
Your cat is sitting across the room, you look over to them, and you call their name and nothing happens. Your feelings get hurt and you wonder, does my cat even recognize my voice at all? A study conducted at the University of Tokyo found that cats can recognize their owners’ voices. What’s more, cats can recognize their names—even when it is called by a stranger. Some felines will twitch their ears or tilt their head when they hear their name being called.
However, the study also found that only about 10 percent of those cats come when called. Cats do know your voice and their names but they don’t always feel the need to offer a response.
Unlike dogs, who generally want to be involved in every situation and activity and often follow their human around constantly, cats are more independent.
