Why Does My Cat Do That? The Ins and Outs of Funny Cat Behaviors

A vet gives us the lowdown on zoomies, loafing, and chirping.

By
cockapoo named Pickles and a black domestic shorthair named Jazzy." tabindex="0" data-inline-tooltip="true"> Maddie Topliff
A person smiling and looking at the camera
Maddie Topliff
Maddie Topliff is the Editor, Pets of The Spruce Pets and Daily Paws at People Inc. With a background in both journalism and pet ownership, Maddie expertly curates and manages content that helps pet owners provide the best for their furry and not-so-furry friends. Maddie is the proud owner of a cockapoo named Pickles and a black domestic shorthair named Jazzy.
Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process
Published on 10/01/24
3 Funny Cat Behaviors Explained
1:07

Cats are silly little creatures, and if you haven't discovered this fact yet, it's only a matter of time! But some cat behaviors are a little strange, so if this is your first cat rodeo, it's natural to be concerned when witnessing certain behaviors for the first time.

Allyson Jacobi, DVM, a veterinarian at Animal Medical Clinic of Merle Hay in Des Moines, Iowa, breaks down three funny cat behaviors that are odd but aren't causes for concern.

  • 01 of 03

    Zoomies

    two maine coon kittens playing indoors running through corridor chasing the red dot of a laser pointer
    Credit:

    Nils Jacobi / Getty Images

    This common cat behavior is pretty self-explanatory—if your cat is zooming around your home, they have the zoomies.

    "Zoomies are bursts of energy or activity after sleeping for long periods, eating, or using the litter box," Jacobi says. "Just like in dogs, cats get randomly excited. Enjoy them!"

    Many cats get the zoomies, and they can make for great fun if one of your other pets joins in for a game of chase.

  • 02 of 03

    Loafing

    Cat tucking paws
    Cats tuck their paws when they are feeling relaxed and also when they are cold. Credit:

    Getty Images/Yaroslav Martseniyk

    Does your cat ever tuck their little limbs away, not unlike a turtle going into his shell? This is called loafing. Cats loaf for several reasons, but loafing is usually not a cause for concern.

    "It's an old wives' tale that cats tend to 'loaf' when they are sick," Jacobi says. "This may or may not be true due to your cat's preferences but if there are concerning changes in behavior—like decreased appetite, decreased energy—please consult your veterinarian."

    In summary, loafing may just be a comfortable position your cat prefers. No need to be worried unless you notice accompanying changes in behavior.

  • 03 of 03

    Chirping

    Photo of Cat Talking in Old Telephone
    Cat Talking in Old Telephone. Credit: photo © Getty / MamiGibbs Pr

    If you're lucky (or unlucky if it's 3 am), you have a chatty kitty. Chirping, AKA chattering are unique sounds cats make when they want to express their joy, like during a zoomies session.

    "Chirping is characterized by small sounds or movements of the mouth cats make when they are excited," Jacobi says. "It could be when they are watching birds, preparing for dinner time, etc."

    Tip

    Chirping or chattering is different than teeth-grinding, the latter of which may signal dental disease. If you're unsure what type of sound your cat is making, you can always ask your veterinarian.

    Not all cats chirp, but if you're unsure, listen for your feline to make a trill-like sound during their favorite times of the day.

More On Cat Behavior

Cat behavior is a fascinating subject that you as a new cat owner will uncover more of. Check out these related articles to learn about more common cat behaviors.

Explore more: