Many of us cat parents catch our kitties doing odd things, and we may wonder to ourselves, “Is my cat normal?”
That’s a good question. What exactly is “normal” for cats? Chasing air? Hunting plastic bags? Hiding? Fetching? In many ways, “normal” is in the eye of the beholder, and the spectrum of cat behaviors is wide. So how do you know what’s normal and when to be concerned?
Getting to know your cat and paying attention to their behavior is the best way to tell when something’s not “normal.” For instance, take sleeping. Cats sleep a lot. But if your cat is sleeping more than usual for them, hiding in strange places to sleep, looks uncomfortable, or growls when you pick them up, they may not be feeling well.
Never assume that your cat is sleeping all day just because they can. Illness or injury can strike suddenly, so be sure to check up on your cat several times a day.
Normal Hairballs
What cat parent hasn’t stepped on a wet hairball? Hairballs once in a while are pretty normal for a cat. Some produce more than others, and they can be worse in the spring and fall. Regular brushing can help, or an over-the-counter hairball remedy if your cat will eat it.
Pay attention to what’s being thrown up, however. Food, plants, foamy or yellow liquid coming up three or more times in one day — or for longer than two days — indicates a trip to the vet is in order.
Normal Responses To New Environments
New environments can be challenging for cats. They may hide for a while until they feel safe and comfortable.
Normal behaviors like playing or eating may decrease. But if your cat hides and does not want to interact with you, hisses, or freaks out if you try to pick them up, they may be feeling overwhelmed. Give them some time, or set them up in a small space until they feel safe.
Cats bond and interact with humans differently. It’s pretty much up to the cat. If you’ve got a new cat, and you’re not sure where you stand, pay attention to behaviors like rubbing on furniture (redirected affection), being in the same room with you (although not in your lap), eating in your presence, and seeming generally happy and relaxed.
Beware of having too many expectations about what the relationship “should” look like. Be patient, relax, and enjoy the bond between you, however it appears.
The Feline Perspective
If you do need help, the more information you can give a vet or behaviorist, the better they’ll be able to assist you and your feline.
Put yourself into your cat’s “paws” from time to time. Something that seems bizarre at first may make perfect sense when seeing it from their perspective.
And remember that every non-threatening incident of bizarre behavior makes a great story for your next Zoom call. Oh, excuse me, I have to go now — Sophie has just captured another plastic bag in the kitchen!
Do you think your cat is normal? What does normal mean to you when it comes to felines? Let us know in the comments below!
