Cat Behavior

Cats choose to sleep by your feet as a display of trust and companionship while maintaining their safety. In the wild, felines engage in protective sleeping behavior to guard against potential danger. By sleeping at your feet, they remain relatively undisturbed, offering them a sense of security – another facet of their instinctual behavior. Their location also showcases their affinity for you, as shared warmth is a form of bonding in the world of cats. This combined satisfaction of safety and social inclination explains why your furry friend prefers to curl up by your feet.

Cats often choose to sleep on your feet as a sign of trust and affection, and for their own comfort and security. Being social animals, cats seek close contact for the warmth and protection it offers, and your feet, being relatively stable and out of high-traffic areas, provide a prime spot for their restful repose. Additionally, the rhythmic sensation of your breathing provides a soothing effect for cats, contributing to the cozy ambiance they thrive in. This behaviour also taps into their natural instincts; it is an advantageous position that allows them quick escape if unexpected danger arises, making it a sleep spot of choice. So next time you find your feline friend curled up on your feet, remember it’s their way of demonstrating trust, seeking comfort, and ensuring security.

Cats sniff each other’s butts as a significant means of communication. Through a process called the Flehmen response, wherein a cat will lift its nose towards the sky and show its front teeth, the cat can ‘taste’ the air. This behavior stimulates the Jacobson’s organ located at the roof of their mouth and enables them to sense certain pheromones. The pheromones emitted from a cat’s anal glands offer pertinent information about the cat’s identity, diet, health, and even emotional state. Mutual sniffing, therefore, is a crucial part of feline social interaction, similar to a ‘handshake’ in human greeting habits.

Stray cats rub against your legs as a means of marking territory and establishing a connection. This behavior, known as bunting, involves the cat depositing pheromones from specialized glands in their cheeks onto your legs. It’s their way of communicating and creating a social bond, marking you as a familiar and non-threatening entity in their environment. It could also signify that they’re seeking attention or food from you.