Cats are known for their sleek coats, sharp claws, and definitive feline features. Cats have been a popular pet choice for decades, and will probably stay that way for many more.
Despite being a common pet, there are some things about cats that the average person may not know. Some of these facts are specific characteristics about cats, ways to care for them, and funny stories about them.
For this article, we will be discussing some funny stories about cats. These stories will be about when a cat does something unexpected, something that goes against their typical nature. Because there are so many different species of cat, and so many different ways to classify them, there is no one way this can happen.
This article will talk about some of these surprises and tell funny stories about cats.
Loud cat squeals
If your cat makes loud, sharp noises when you pick them up, chances are they don’t like being picked up. This can be for a few reasons.
Kittens tend to dislike being picked up until they are about 12 weeks old. At this point, they are mature enough to be comfortable being held. If your kitten is older than this, then there may be a reason they do not like to be held.
If your cat was dropped as a kitten, or if there was a period of time when they did not like being held, they may continue to dislike it as an adult.
Sometimes cats do not like being held by certain people. If your cat is giving them the squirts, then maybe try picking them up differently or by someone else to see if that makes a difference.
Why does my cat squeal?
Many cats will let you know when they do not want to be picked up. Their way of saying this is by meowing and squealing as you pick them up.
Sometimes they will even drop onto the floor when you try to pick them up, indicating that they do not want to be held. It can seem silly, but it is important to listen to your cat.
If you hold them against their will, they may become stressed or frightened, and may attempt to escape. This can lead to struggle that results in scratches or even biting.
Some cats may just not like being held for long periods of time. If this is the case, try setting up a comfortable place for them on the floor and give them some toys to play with. This way they can still have some quality time with you without having to leave the floor.
Cat behavior experts agree that a cat who loudly squeals when picked up is expressing displeasure with the interaction
Cats are very independent creatures. They like to have their own space and do their own thing, so when you try to change that, it can upset them.
When you pick up a cat, you are interfering with its ability to walk. For this reason, cats behavior experts agree that a cat who loudly squeals when picked up is expressing displeasure with the interaction.
It may seem like your kitty loves being held, but actually it hates it. In fact, this dislike can lead to other issues down the road. For instance, a cat that does not like being held may start to display aggressive behaviors. It might begin to attack when you try to pick it up or put on the Kind of like how some people get mad when they are held against their will.
Try different types of petting
While most cats enjoy being rubbed along their heads, tails, and backs, you should also try rubbing their stomachs.
Many cats love having their stomach rubbed, but it can be hard to get to the belly due to longer fur on the back. Some cats also do not like their bellies touched due to sensitivity or because they want to hold their food there.
Try both and see which one your cat likes more! Some cats may even like having their paws touched.
I know it sounds silly, but some cats have very sensitive pads on their paws and feel good when they are stroked. Of course, you should only do this if your cat does not seem bothered by it.
Some cats love being brushed so they may enjoy that type of petting as well. It all depends on the cat! Try experimenting with different types of petting to see what your kitty loves.
Cats may squeak when you pick them up because they lack stability
A cat may feel insecure when you pick them up, making them feel unstable. When a cat feels insecure, they may struggle or respond with a loud meow.
So, how can you fix this? By picking them up more often!
According to cat behaviorist Marilyn Krieger, PhD, cats need opportunities to learn that things are stable. One way they learn this is by jumping down from high places and landing safely.
When they land safely, they learn that the place they’re in is stable (i.e., the floor) and that they are safe (i.e., they won’t fall). By giving them more opportunities to land safely, you can help reduce their anxiety when you pick them up.
By picking them up more often, you’re teaching them that the situation is stable — which helps reduce their anxious responses.
Your kitty may be trying to tell you something
Although this may seem like an innocuous habit, many cats develop a dislike for being held and picked up. As with most things, there can be some other reasons for this behavior.
For example, if your cat is an indoor cat, they may feel as though they have the run of the house and do not need to be picked up.
If your cat is an older cat, they may no longer feel comfortable being picked up due to arthritis or other pain.
Similarly, if your cat is a younger kitten, they may just not like being held. Kittens are very playful creatures and sometimes the play gets too rough and one wants out!
The key is to pay attention to when this behavior starts. If it arises after a particular event such as a visit from the vet or a new pet bed being placed in the room, then it could be related to that.
Cats may also make noise when they are being groomed or have their fur brushed
This can be due to a few things, including anxiety, excitement, or because they enjoy the grooming experience.
If your cat appears to be relaxed and content as they are groomed, then the noises they make are probably a sign of enjoyment. Some cats may continue to make noise as they are groomed if they like the experience.
However, if your cat appears anxious or stressed while being groomed, then the noises may be a sign of discomfort. If this is the case, then try to ease their anxiety by using pet friendly calming products.
Some cats may also meow or squeak when they are picked up. Once again, this may be due to anxiety or because the cat enjoys being picked up.
Is my cat in pain?
Pain is one of the main reasons cats stop using their litter box. If your cat stops using the litter box, pay special attention to whether or not they seem to be in pain when they walk and jump.
If your cat seems in pain when they walk or jump, or if they are sleeping more than usual, it may be a good idea to take them to the vet for a checkup.
Veterinarians can do a physical examination and run blood tests to determine if your cat is in pain. They can also prescribe medication to help treat any pain your cat may have.
If you notice changes in behavior, such as altered litter box habits, changes in behavior, and/or other signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, changes in appetite, hiding or other behaviors that seem unusual for your cat, you should take them to the vet.
It’s always best to be safe than sorry.
