How Cats Behave

Most cats behave in the same way, and have similar characteristics. For example, they all have feline mannerisms, like their sense of balance, their ability to jump, and their uncanny resemblance to predators in the wild. Other typical cat behavior includes purring, sleeping, and climbing. Below are some of the most common cat behaviors and what they mean.

Purring

Many people assume that a purring cat is content and happy. That's usually true, but there are other times when a cat will purr.
Kittens an their mothers will purr while nursing. In the same vein, a typical cat will purr when it is being petted or when it is in familiar, safe and comfortable surroundings.

However, purring may also be a defense mechanism for a sick, injured, or stressed out cat. Purring is a way for a cat to calm and soothe itself. Some people compare it to a person smiling nervously or rocking to soothe themselves.

Sleeping

The typical cat also likes to sleep, and can sleep for as many as sixteen hours a day. Through scanning their brain waves and observing their movements while asleep, scientists have also determined that cats do dream. Sleep can also be used to determin how healthy a cat is. Although cats don't show illness very well, a change in their sleep habits may be a sign of sickness, and should be a clue that they need to see a veterinarian.

Climbing

The typical cat loves to climb and perch on high places. Cats may feel safer and less vulnerable higher up, and it gives them a strategic advantage. They can view what's going on around them, and yet be hidden from view below. This behavior is a throwback to when the cat was primarily a predator, hunting small animals below. Cats may also appreciate that warmer air rises, so the higher they are, the more comfortable they are. You may also see cats fight for high perches, since this behavior may indicate social status -- a cat may choose the highest point to prove its dominant status in a household.

Play

Cats love to play and pounce. This, again, is probably indicative of their stalking heritage in the wild. One difference in cat toys versus the wild, however, is the presence of catnip. Many toys these days contain catnip, and you can also grow it in containers. A typical cat will munch fresh or dried catnip and roll and rub their heads in it, or claw at a toy and rub it around. When a cat smells catnip, it can become a crazed animal that runs, spins, and plays before regaining its calm. The reaction doesn't last long, but it is intense and very fun to watch.

Most cats have different personalities and temperaments because of their breeds or their environements. However, all cats share some common behaviors and actions. Purring, sleep, climbing and play are all part of what makes up a typical cat. More about cat behaviour at http://cat-pets-dissected.info

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