Why cats paw: understanding this feline gesture
Why do cats paw? You’ve probably already fallen in love with this adorable gesture in which your fur ball gently kneads with its little front paws. But do you really know what this touching behavior means? Get ready to discover the fascinating secrets of feline pawing!
The origin of kitten pawing
- Patooning appears from the kitten’s first days of life.
- This gesture stimulates lactation in the mother cat, ensuring the kitten’s survival.
- Pawing is therefore a natural reflex linked to comfort and safety from birth.
Have you ever noticed that, even as an adult, your cat seems to slip back into childhood when he paws? It’s hardly surprising, since he associates this gesture with a deep sense of well-being.
An instinctive behavior inherited from their ancestors
- The wild ancestors of our domestic cats used to patoon to prepare their resting place.
- This gesture smoothed out the tall grass and ensured the safety of the site before settling in.
- Today, your cat instinctively perpetuates this ancestral ritual, even on your favorite blanket!
A little anecdote: did you know that some wild felines, like the lynx, also patoon before sleeping? Just goes to show, our little companions keep many secrets inherited from their wild cousins!
The link between skating and emotional well-being
- Pawing is often associated with a state of relaxation and intense happiness in cats.
- This gesture releases soothing pheromones via the pads, promoting relaxation.
- A cat that paws regularly is generally a happy, well-balanced cat.
If your tomcat often paws, congratulations: you’ve succeeded in providing him with an ideal environment!
The different meanings of pawing in your cat
Your cat pawing to express affection
- Skating on your lap or belly is a sign of love and trust.
- This gesture demonstrates the strong bond between you and your feline companion.
- Welcome this special moment as a precious token of affection.
So yes, sometimes his claws tickle you a little too much, but that’s the ultimate proof of his love for you!
Patrolling as a way of marking your territory
- Cats’ paw pads release territorial pheromones.
- Skating on a cushion or plaid is a subtle way of claiming your space.
- This behavior reassures your cat, making it feel right at home.
Has your favorite sofa become its territory? Now you know why!
When patooning reveals a search for comfort
- Your cat often paws before going to sleep to prepare his bed.
- This gesture creates a cosy, reassuring nest.
- Offer her a comfortable space to facilitate this daily ritual.
Here’s an original tip: warm his favourite blanket with a hair dryer before he goes to bed, and he’ll love pawing at the warm, comforting surface!
How to deal with your cat’s excessive pawing
Identifying the causes of excessive skidding
- Stress or anxiety can trigger compulsive patrolling.
- Check whether recent changes in his environment have disturbed him.
- Consult a veterinarian if this behavior becomes obsessive.
To better understand the signs of stress in your cat, read our dedicated article on how to tell if my cat is stressed.
Adopting the right gestures to reassure your cat
- Offer calm, secure spaces for relaxation.
- Spend time playing with him to reduce his stress.
- Use soothing pheromone diffusers if necessary.
Mistakes to avoid when your cat limps
- Common mistake to be avoided: never punish your cat for pawing, even if its claws bother you.
- Avoid abruptly pushing your cat away, as this may cause further stress.
- Instead, gently divert his attention to a cushion or blanket.
Encourage and enjoy your cat’s daily pawing.
Creating an environment conducive to skating
- Set up soft cushions and blankets to encourage her.
- Respect his moments of relaxation and paddling without disturbing him.
- Observe your customers’ preferences and adapt your living space to their needs.
Make the most of these moments of complicity
- Take the time to enjoy these special moments with your cat.
- Talk to him gently to strengthen your bond.
- Capture these moments in photos or videos for lasting memories.
Share your experience with other cat lovers
- Talk to other cat owners about your experiences.
- Join online communities dedicated to cat lovers.
- Get inspired by the tips and advice shared to better understand your feline.
Conclusion
Pawing is much more than just a touching gesture: it reveals your cat’s emotional state, expresses affection and strengthens your bond. By better understanding why cats paw, you’ll be able to fully appreciate these unique moments with your feline companion. To discover other fascinating secrets about your cat’s behavior, read on at Pawtounes.fr!
FAQ : Why do cats paw?
Why does my cat patootie on me?
Your cat paws at you to express its affection, confidence and well-being in your presence.
Is skating always a positive sign?
Generally yes, but excessive pawing can sometimes indicate stress or anxiety in your cat.
How can I prevent my cat from scratching me while I’m skating?
Trim his claws regularly and place a soft blanket between you and his paws to prevent scratching.
Should I worry if my cat never waddles?
No, every cat has its own personality, and some simply don’t paw or paw very little, without this being a cause for concern.
