Mike Clinton
Introduction: Understanding Feline Behavior
Cats are fascinating creatures with a complex behavior that has puzzled humans for centuries. One of the common behaviors that cats exhibit is rubbing against walls, furniture, or even their owners. While it may seem like a strange behavior, there is a science behind it. Understanding why cats rub against walls can help cat owners appreciate their pets’ natural instincts and communicate better with them.
The Science Behind Cat Rubbing
Cat rubbing is a behavior that starts when a cat reaches its social maturity, usually around six months of age. This behavior is also known as bunting, head-butting, or allorubbing. According to animal behaviorists, cat rubbing is a way for cats to mark their territory, communicate with other cats, and show affection towards their owners. When a cat rubs against a surface, the scent glands on their face, tail, and paws release pheromones, a chemical substance that carries important information about the cat’s identity, status, and emotional state.