LICKING
OR CHEWING PHOTOGRAPHS/PLASTIC BAGS :
This is a difficult behavior to explain, and some cats are more
prone to it than others. Most feline behaviorists have come to
believe that some cats find a slight odor to the plastic and/or
film surfaces simply irresistible, and also that the coolness
and texture of the plastic and/or film must feel and taste good
on the cat's tongue. It may also be another form of trying to
"nurse" - sort of a feline "oral compulsive"
behavior.
RUBS
HIS HEAD AGAINST YOU/YOUR SHOES :
Your cat has special scent glands located in various parts of
his body, including the area underneath the skin on his chin,
and the area around his eyes. When your cat rubs up against you
with his head, he is actually "marking" you with his
own scent, as a signal to other cats that he is claiming you as
"his"! You will probably notice that when your cat is
doing this behavior, he is in a loving, peaceful and contented
mood. The scent glands around his face release what are known
as "facial pheromones", sometimes dubbed "happy
hormones"! You should feel honored when your cat does this
behavior to you as it is demonstrating his deep affection for
you. Rubbing his head against your shoes is also a marking behavior
- perhaps your cat is trying to cover up the scents from where
you have been during the course of the day (which of course will
be on your shoes) with his own scent, signifying again his "claim"
on you.
CONSTANTLY MAKING NOISE OR MEOWING
:
Some cats, of course, are definitely "talkers" and are
very vocal all the time! However, if your cat has been checked
out by your vet and there are no medical problems, and he is really
trying to get your attention with his constant meowing, it's time
to start paying close attention and try to figure out what it
is your cat is trying to tell you! He is possibly hungry; possibly
lonely; his litter box is possibly not clean enough for his liking;
there may be changes in your home or personal routine that are
upsetting to him. Remember - your cat has feelings too, and you
should try to look at things from HIS point of view - not yours.
