Does your cat frequently check on you? like casually looking around, to make sure you are nearby?
Do they walk in your room, give you a look, and then continue on their way?
If you notice your cat keep an eye on you, it likely indicates that your pet considers you a significant figure.
In this video, we'll explore the common reasons why cats check in on their owners, and what it signifies for you as a caring pet owner.
The first reason cats check on you has to do with their territorial nature.
Being territorial and social animals, cats regularly check their territory for anything out of place and they keep an eye on their family members.
Cats are territorial and social animals. They regularly check their territory for anything out of place and they keep an eye on their family members.
When there’s a strange noise or something loud, they look at their owners to gauge their reactions. If you appear unconcerned, they take it as a signal that everything's normal. But if you're on high alert, they kick into alert mode too. They may even survey the environment for potential threats.
Now, your cat's frequent check-ins might also be a way of making sure you are, still, in fact, you!
They are making sure that everything is fine and that the routine is still the same.
Your pet knows you're the source of all good things—food, shelter, and safety. So when they're checking on you, they are ensuring that you are present to play your role as the great protector. This little check is their way of seeking reassurance that their environment remains stable and secure.
Another reason your cat checks on you is because they want to seek your attention.
They check on you in the hope of receiving positive acknowledgment. Whether they desire playtime, a good petting session, a cozy cuddle, or just a moment of eye contact, your cat wants you to notice them or spend time with them. Some cats even follow you around the house simply because they want to be seen and heard.
Another reason for these check-ins is to ensure your well-being. Cats have a keen sense of smell and are often able to detect changes in their owner's scent when they are sick. They may also pick up on changes in your behavior or body language. While your pet may not understand that you have the flu, they can sense when things are different, especially if you've been in bed or on the couch all day.
When your cat notices something is amiss, they are highly likely to pay you a visit.
Many cats come in closer proximity when their humans are sick or sad. Some even purr and rub themselves more once they sense that their owner is feeling blue.
Believe it or not, cats have even saved lives over the years.
One cat in the US warned her human when he was about to have an epileptic seizure, while another cat in the UK saved his owner’s life by pounding his paws on her chest to wake her up after she suffered a heart attack.
Finally, cats also check on you because they love you. If you have a strong bond with your cat, built over time through love and trust, your pet may check in simply because they care.
It's a heartwarming sign of affection. Your pet is not looking for food. They are not looking for attention. They are just checking in because of the deep connection and affection they have for you.
When your cat chooses to be near you with no obvious strings attached, it means you are succeeding in the art of pet parenting. This indicates that you've established a secure and loving environment for your feline friend.
It's important to note that some cats check in more frequently than others, and their subtle ways of doing so may go unnoticed. On the flip side, some cats may be aloof, detached, or uninterested in engagement due to past trauma or a preference for independence.
Why do cats check on you when you’re asleep?
If your cat checks on you while you are asleep, it is often because they feel safe being around you, and they regard you as a close partner whom they worry about on occasion.
Cats also check on you while you are asleep to ensure your safety.
Many cats are well aware that they, and their humans, are vulnerable when sleeping.
By keeping a watchful eye on you while you sleep, your little tiger is trying to from any potential nighttime threats.
This is akin to how they would protect their fellow feline family members in the wild.
Now that we covered why cats check on you, let’s explore other interesting cat behaviors.
