Why Do Cats Go In Circles Before They Lay Down? Unraveling the Mystery
The seemingly quirky behavior of cats circling before lying down is rooted in a fascinating blend of instinct and comfort; it’s not just a random habit! This action likely stems from instinctive behaviors inherited from their wild ancestors to prepare a safe and comfortable resting space, and to make themselves a safer target from predators.
Understanding Feline Ancestry and Instincts
The modern domestic cat, despite its pampered life, carries the genetic blueprint of its wild ancestors. These ancestors weren’t presented with plush beds and temperature-controlled environments. They had to create their own safe havens.
- Flattening Vegetation: Wild cats would circle to flatten tall grass or other vegetation, creating a more comfortable and concealed bed. This provides insulation from the cold ground and shelter from the wind.
- Checking for Threats: Circling allowed them to survey the area for potential dangers, such as predators or snakes, before settling down. It’s a crucial survival tactic that persists even in safe indoor environments.
- Marking Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws. Circling allows them to lightly scent-mark their sleeping spot, claiming it as their own and deterring other animals.
The Modern Cat and the Persisting Behavior
While our pampered feline friends don’t necessarily need to flatten grass or ward off predators, these instinctive behaviors remain deeply ingrained. Think of it as a feline ritual, a sequence of actions that provides a sense of security and control.
- Comfort and Security: The act of circling can provide a sense of comfort and security, even if there’s no real danger present. It’s a way for them to feel more at ease and in control of their immediate surroundings.
- Temperature Regulation: Circling might help cats adjust the temperature of their sleeping spot. By compressing blankets or digging at a cushion, they can create a warmer or cooler resting place.
- Pure Habit: In some cases, circling may simply be a habit that cats have developed over time. It might not serve any specific purpose, but it’s a behavior that they find comforting and reinforcing.
Observing the Circling Process
Most cats will circle a few times before settling down, but the specifics can vary. Some cats are meticulous, circling many times and kneading their paws, while others simply take a quick turn and plop down.
Here’s a typical circling routine:
- Initial Survey: The cat approaches the chosen spot.
- Circling: The cat walks around the spot several times, often stepping in the same place multiple times.
- Kneading (optional): The cat may knead the surface with its paws, mimicking the behavior of kittens stimulating milk flow from their mother.
- Settling: The cat finally settles down in the chosen spot, often curling up or stretching out.
When Circling Becomes a Concern
While circling is generally a normal behavior, it’s important to be aware of when it might indicate an underlying problem.
- Obsessive Behavior: If your cat circles excessively, becomes agitated, or displays other unusual behaviors, it could be a sign of anxiety or a compulsive disorder.
- Pain or Discomfort: In some cases, circling may be a sign that your cat is experiencing pain or discomfort. For example, a cat with arthritis might circle to find a comfortable position.
- Neurological Issues: In rare cases, circling can be a symptom of a neurological problem.
If you are concerned about your cat’s circling behavior, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian.
Comparing Cat Circling to Dog Circling
Both cats and dogs engage in circling behavior before lying down, but the underlying reasons may differ slightly.
| Feature | Cats | Dogs |
|---|---|---|
| —————- | ———————————- | ———————————– |
| Primary Reason | Instinct, comfort, territory | Nesting, temperature regulation |
| Paw Kneading | Common | Less common |
| Speed | Slower, more deliberate | Faster, more energetic |
| Territorial Marking | Scent glands in paws | Less prominent scent marking |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do cats go in circles before they lay down every time?
Cats don’t always circle before laying down every time. Often, if they feel supremely safe and comfortable in an area, they will forgo their ritual, and just lay down. The persistence of the behavior, however, is linked to the ingrained nature of their instincts. It’s a habit they’ve developed for comfort and security, and doing it consistently reinforces that feeling.
Why do some cats circle more than others?
The amount of circling varies depending on the cat’s individual personality, breed, and past experiences. Some cats are simply more meticulous than others, and cats from breeds known for being more active might circle more. The environment also plays a role: a less secure or less familiar environment can also cause a cat to circle more.
Is there a specific age when cats start circling?
Circling behavior typically starts in kittenhood, as they learn from their mothers and develop their own habits. It’s not unusual to see young kittens mimicking this behavior even before they have a clear understanding of its purpose.
Can I stop my cat from circling?
There’s generally no reason to stop your cat from circling, as it’s a natural and harmless behavior. Interfering with the behavior may actually cause stress. If the circling is excessive or seems to be related to anxiety, consult with a veterinarian or a certified cat behaviorist.
Does circling only happen before sleeping?
While circling is most commonly observed before sleeping or resting, cats may also circle before other activities, such as eating or using the litter box. These variations are much less common, but they can still be related to a desire for comfort, security, or territorial marking.
Why do cats knead with their paws while circling?
Kneading, also known as “making biscuits,” is a behavior that kittens exhibit to stimulate milk flow from their mothers. Adult cats often continue this behavior as a sign of contentment and comfort. Kneading can also help to create a softer, more comfortable resting surface.
Is circling more common in indoor or outdoor cats?
Circling is generally seen in both indoor and outdoor cats, although the reasons might differ. Outdoor cats may circle more often to prepare a safe sleeping spot and check for threats, while indoor cats may do it out of habit and for comfort.
Does the surface material affect how much a cat circles?
Yes, the surface material can definitely influence a cat’s circling behavior. Cats may circle more on surfaces that are soft and malleable, such as blankets or pillows, as this allows them to create a more comfortable nest. A hard or uncomfortable surface might deter them from circling or even from settling down at all.
My cat doesn’t circle. Is there something wrong?
Not all cats circle before lying down. The absence of this behavior doesn’t necessarily indicate that there’s anything wrong. Some cats simply don’t feel the need to engage in this instinctive behavior, especially if they feel safe and secure in their environment.
What does it mean if my cat suddenly starts circling more than usual?
A sudden increase in circling behavior could be a sign that something is bothering your cat. It could be due to anxiety, stress, discomfort, or a change in their environment. If you notice a significant change in your cat’s behavior, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues.
Does circling before lying down mean my cat loves me?
While it’s a stretch to say circling is purely an expression of love, it can be a sign that your cat feels safe and comfortable in your presence. The act of circling often involves kneading, which is linked to feelings of contentment and security.
Why do some cats circle and then just walk away?
Sometimes, a cat might start to circle but then walk away without lying down. This could be because they’ve found the spot to be unsuitable, or they were disturbed by something in their environment. They might also be looking for a specific temperature or level of comfort that the initial spot didn’t provide.