Cat Behavior
Kneading, purring, night-time yowling, litter box surprises and the 3 a.m. zoomies. Understand what your cat is telling you, so you can respond instead of react.
What this section covers
- Kneading, purring and body language
- Night-time yowling and vocalizing
- Litter box problems
- Scratching and furniture
- Play, hunting and attention-seeking
New guides are being added. In the meantime, the answers below cover the questions we hear most.
Common cat behavior questions
Why do cats knead?
Kittens knead their mother to help the milk flow, and many cats keep the habit as adults when they feel relaxed and content. Kneading may also soften a resting spot and leave scent from glands in the paws. If your cat suddenly kneads much more than usual, especially alongside hiding or appetite changes, it can be a sign they don’t feel well.
Does purring always mean a cat is happy?
No. Purring often signals contentment, but UC Davis veterinary researcher Leslie Lyons notes that cats often purr under duress too, such as during a vet visit or while recovering from an injury. Read the whole cat: posture, appetite and behavior tell you more than the purr alone.
Why is my cat peeing outside the litter box?
Start with the vet. Every cat that starts house-soiling should have a physical exam and a urine test, because infections, cystitis, arthritis, kidney problems and diabetes can all be behind it. Once medical causes are ruled out, look at the setup: most cats prefer soft, unscented, clumping litter, a box about 1.5 times their length, and a quiet spot away from their food.
When is a behavior change a reason to call the vet?
When it’s sudden or out of character: hiding, kneading or crying far more than usual, or new litter box habits. The AAFP notes that any change in a cat’s normal behavior or routine can be a sign of pain.
We’re cat owners, not veterinarians. This information is general; for anything about your own cat’s health, please talk to your vet.
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