Feline observations

Trish Lynn and Thom Donitz with friends.

The JOLT News Staff

In our last article we talked about funny things dogs do, so we thought it only fair we write this week’s article on cats. 

Usually living in our home, cats share our personal space but do exactly as they please, in their time, and in their own way. Cats are endlessly intriguing animals, known for their independence, intelligence, and sometimes downright baffling behaviors. 

Kneading: A distinctive feline behavior whereby the cat repetitively pushes its paws into a soft surface, such as a blanket or its owner. Cats start kneading as little kittens, when they knead around their mother’s teat to stimulate the milk flow. With its early associated reward (milk), it often becomes a comforting adult habit, even without the reward. 

Knocking things over: Cats have a reputation for knocking things off tables, shelves and counter tops, often leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. This is not mischievious behavior, but curiosity along with a way for cats to test their environment. It’s also a form of play, allowing them to hone their hunting skills. (We think sometimes, it is done on purpose.) 

Cat bunting: Thom's cat Akira would head butt, and a next-door neighbor thought it was cute until she let Akira head butt her and “Wham." He let her have it.  When a cat headbutts or rubs their head against you, they’re marking you as part of their territory and, also a way for cats to transfer their scent onto objects and people. It’s a sign of affection and trust. 

The gaze: It can be a bit eerie when your cat suddenly stops and stares intently at what seems like nothing. While you can’t see anything, cats are actually highly observant creatures. They have excellent hearing and vision, allowing them to detect even the slightest movements or sounds that are imperceptible to humans. 

Their ability to prevent you from working: Any cat-owning home workers will know the feeling. You have your cup of coffee, settle down for a day at the desk, and the cat steals up and sits on your computer or laptop. Best seat in the house, apparently. We know they just want your attention. 

Cats invented hide and seek: One of the most playful cat behaviors is the surprise attack. Cats love to hide and wait for the perfect moment to pounce on an unsuspecting friend, whether it’s another pet or human. This sneak attack is both a game and a display of their natural instincts. 

Laser light comedy: The laser light chase is a classic cat behavior that promises endless laughter. The moment a cat spots the elusive red dot; its focus becomes unwavering. This game showcases a cat’s agility and determination, despite the futility of the chase. It also burns off energy. 

Appeal of a faucet: Of course you've provided a drinking bowl, but they quite enjoy helping themselves from the faucet. They’ll hop up onto the side, wait for you to turn it on, and take a quick drink. Or they’ll sip from puddles, but don’t you leave that unwanted drinking bowl empty. 

Cats are masters of the Jedi mind trick: For example, when Thom has company, suddenly, for no reason, he will get up and give the cats a treat or feed them. I want to remind you though that OBI-Wan says it only works on the weak-minded, but don’t tell Thom. 

Roly-poly: You can’t just stroke a cat; their demands are way more particular than that. The cat will roll over and insist on a full-on belly rub, or he will paw you until you oblige. And then, with no warning, “That’s enough, stop!” 

They decide when they want to be fed: No matter how much you think you’ll stick to your routine, your cats will end up deciding when they are to be fed. This is because sometimes they will meow louder and louder until you end up giving in. Their rules, always. 

The purrfect cat burglar: Thom's cat Akira would steal pieces of his chess board and hide them along with other stolen bounty in his secret location known only to cats. Thom eventually found his chess pieces and the other treasures under a chest of drawers after endless searching. 

There are so many more, but we are past our word limit. 

Many excerpts are from PetsRadar - Martha Terry, Amanda Campion and Heron’s Crossing. 

Paws for thought

“Cats have it all — admiration, an endless sleep, and company only when they want it.” - Rod McKuen 

Thom Donitz and Trish Lynn are neighbors and close friends who share their love of animals and wildlife. Trish and Thom are residents of Tumwater. Contact them at  pets@theJOLTnews.com.