Cat Behaviour Explained: Scratching, Kneading and Zoomies
What your cat is actually telling you, and how to redirect the habits you would rather not have.
Cat behaviour looks arbitrary until you know what each action is for. Almost none of it is done to annoy you.
Scratching
Scratching sheds the outer nail sheath, stretches the back and leaves scent from glands in the paws. Cats cannot simply be stopped from doing it. Give a tall, rigid post — at least 80 cm so they can stretch fully — placed next to where they already scratch, and next to where they sleep. Sisal and cardboard are the usual favourites.
Kneading
A leftover from nursing. It signals contentment and often precedes settling down. Trim the nails rather than discouraging it.
Zoomies
Sudden sprints, usually at dawn or dusk, are normal predatory energy with nowhere to go. Two short wand-toy sessions a day, finishing with a meal, mimics the hunt-catch-eat-sleep cycle and settles most cats.
Slow blinks and tail language
- A slow blink is a friendly signal. Blink back.
- A tail held upright with a slight hook means confident and pleased.
- A flicking or thumping tail means stop, not carry on.
When behaviour changes suddenly
Hiding, aggression when touched, or new litter tray problems usually mean pain rather than attitude. Book a vet check first.
