Decoding Feline Mysteries

• Domestication of Cats: cats may have domesticated themselves in different regions. The oldest known domestic cat skeleton was found in Cyprus, dating back around 9,500 years. Genetic studies that link domestic cats to the Near Eastern wildcat.

• Why Cats Purr and Roar: domestic cats can purr, while larger cats like lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars can roar but not purr. It delves into the differences in their anatomy, particularly their vocal fold structures and the presence of specific tissue pads in larger cats that enable roaring.

• Cat Vision: cats' vision is adapted for low light conditions, making them crepuscular animals (active at dawn and dusk). It mentions the differences in the structure of their eyes, the abundance of rods (cells for low-light vision), and the inability to focus on objects up close.

• Why Cats Sometimes Can't Find Treats: cats can have difficulty seeing objects up close due to their large eyes and inflexible lenses. This is why they may have trouble locating treats that are very close to them.

• The Flehmen Response: is a behavior seen in cats (and other animals) where they curl their lips and sniff the air when encountering certain scents. This behavior helps them better detect pheromones and chemical cues in the environment.

• Why Cats Love Catnip: cats are attracted to catnip due to a compound called nepetalactone, which stimulates receptors in their noses similar to pheromones. It affects their olfactory bulb, amygdala, and hypothalamus, leading to various behaviors such as rolling and rubbing.

• Why Cats Knead: kneading, or making biscuits, is a behavior retained from kittenhood. Kittens knead their mother's belly to stimulate milk production. Adult domestic cats continue this behavior to show trust and comfort.

• Why Cats Love Boxes: Boxes provide a sense of security and protection, reducing their stress and anxiety levels. Additionally, cats like warm environments, and boxes can trap heat, making them feel cozy.

• Cramming into tiny places: Cats find small spaces comforting and safe, which stems from their natural instinct to hide from predators.

• Rolling around: Rolling indicates that a cat feels relaxed and safe in your company or wants to play.

• Presenting their behind: When a cat presents its tail and butt to you, it's a sign of trust and a friendly greeting.

• Chewing on plastic: Cats may chew on non-food items due to anxiety or gut issues, a condition called pica.

• Twitching of the ears: Independent ear movement can signify discomfort or anxiety in cats.

• Not flushing their litter: Cats instinctively bury their waste to hide their scent from predators, but not covering it could indicate a medical issue or litter preference.

• Knocking things over: Cats knock things over to explore and satisfy their curiosity.

• Staring without blinking: Cats may stare at you intensely when focused on potential prey or wanting to play.

• Head rubbing (bunting): By rubbing their head on you, cats spread their scent and pheromones, a form of greeting and affection.

• Biting their nails: Cats may bite their nails to keep them clean or due to anxiety or boredom.

• Crazy runs: Sudden bursts of energy and running are a way for indoor cats to release pent-up energy constructively.

• Sleeping on your laptop: Cats love warm surfaces, and your laptop provides a cozy spot.

• Eating houseplants: Cats may nibble on plants for various reasons, including indigestion, curiosity, or attention-seeking behavior.

• Crazy legs: Cats may sit or lie in unusual positions when they feel comfortable and relaxed.

• Nighttime howling: Some cats become active at night due to a lack of daytime stimulation, but providing toys and puzzles can help.

• Drinking from a running tap: Cats prefer running water as it's cleaner and more disease-free than stagnant water.

• Being a night owl: Cats may be more active at night due to their natural hunting instincts.

• Bringing you dead animals: Cats share their prey with you as a sign of trust or to teach you how to hunt, similar to how their mothers did with them.

These explanations shed light on various aspects of cat behavior and physiology.

Understanding why cats do what they do can indeed deepen the bond between cat owners and their furry friends. Cats are complex creatures with a wide range of behaviors, and deciphering these behaviors can lead to a more fulfilling and harmonious relationship with them.