There are many theories as to why cats turn around when they see you. Some believe it is a sign of submission, while others believe it is a sign of affection. However, the most likely explanation is that it is a sign of trust. When a cat rolls over onto its back, it exposes its vulnerable belly to you. This is a sign of trust and certainty that you will not harm them.
Index
Why do cats turn around when they see you?
No matter the reason, it's always a good idea to take a moment to bond with your feline friend when he turns onto his back. Sometimes it's a sign of submission, as if to say, "I'm not a threat." Other times, it may be a show of affection, as if she is trying to show off her tummy as a sign of confidence. It could also be a sign of joy, as if they want you to join in the fun. Cats turn around when they see you for a variety of reasons.
Reason 1: They are greeting you
One reason is that they are greeting you. There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you. When a cat rolls over onto his back, he is showing his tummy, which is a sign of trust. Cats only expose their bellies to people they feel comfortable with, so if your cat turns away when he sees you, it's a sign of affection.
When a cat rolls onto its back, it is inviting you to play with it. Another reason cats roll over is to show that they are relaxed and playful. So, if you see your cat rolling on his back, take advantage of the tip and have fun with your furry friend!
Reason 2: They want to be petted
One of the reasons is that they want to be petted. By exposing his tummy, he is asking you to show him some affection. When they roll, they expose their tummy, which is a vulnerable spot. There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you.
This is a good way to keep your muscles toned and healthy. When they turn around, they can stretch their backs and legs in a way that they can't when standing up. Another reason cats roll on their backs is to stretch their muscles.
On seeing you, he may be intimidated and turn away to show that he is not a threat. This is especially common if you have a new cat in the house. Finally, some cats roll onto their backs in submission.
Reason 3: They want attention
One reason is that they want attention. When a cat rolls over onto his back, he is usually trying to get you to pet him or give him some kind of petting. There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you. If your cat is constantly rolling on his back and seems to be seeking attention, it might be time to give him a little more love and attention. Cats also like the feeling of having their tummy rubbed, so this is probably another reason they turn away.
Reason 4: They want to play
Cats also roll over on their backs to stretch their muscles and groom themselves. Another reason cats turn away is to show that they trust you. There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you. When a cat trusts you, he feels comfortable enough to show his belly, which is a very vulnerable spot. One of the reasons is that they want to play. When a cat rolls onto his back, it's usually a sign that he's feeling playful and wants you to join in on the fun.
Reason 5: Your cat is in heat
Another reason could be that they feel frisky or want to show their tummy as a sign of confidence. There are a few reasons why your cat may turn away when he sees you. One reason is that they are in heat. If your cat rolls over on her back more often than usual, it could be a sign that she is in heat and you should see your vet. When a female cat is in heat, she is looking for a mate and will often turn around for attention. Lastly, some cats like the feeling of rolling onto their backs.
Reason 6: Your cat is marking its territory
This is his way of claiming you or something else as his. When a cat rubs your back or something else, he is leaving his scent behind. Cats turn on their backs when they see you for a variety of reasons, but one of the most common reasons is that they are marking their territory.
If you have more than one cat, you may have noticed that they often turn and rub up against you when they see you. Cats are very territorial creatures and will mark their territory in any way they can. This is the way to claim it as yours and mark your territory.
This can be done by giving them their own scratching post or cat tree to scratch and rub on. While some people may find this behavior annoying, it's actually a very natural and important part of a cat's life. If you have a cat that constantly rolls on its back and rubs up against you, it's important to make sure you give it plenty of other opportunities to mark its territory.
Cats will often turn and rub up against you when they see you because they are marking their territory. This is very natural behavior for cats and should not be discouraged.
Reason 7: They are stretching your muscles
When cats roll onto their backs, they can stretch their entire bodies, which is good for their flexibility and overall health. There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you. One of the reasons is that they are stretching the muscles.
This is a sign of trust and submission, and it means that your cat feels comfortable and safe around you. Another reason why cats roll onto their backs is because they show their bellies.
Lastly, rolling on your back can also be a show of affection. Cats love to have their tummy rubbed, so if your cat turns away when he sees you, chances are he wants you to give him a good tummy rub!
Reason 8: They're high on catnip
Cats love catnip and it's no secret why. This herb is part of the mint family and contains a chemical called nepetalactone, known to be a feline attractant. When cats smell catnip, they may roll on the floor, rub their faces, or even eat it.
Some people believe that catnip has a similar effect on cats as marijuana does on humans. While there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, it is believed that the nepetalactone in catnip activates certain receptors in a cat's brain, causing a feeling of euphoria.
So if your kitty seems crazy about catnip, it's because she's enjoying the high it gives her!
Is it a sign of submission?
Cats have a reputation for being aloof and independent, but they also have a history of showing affection for their owners in surprising ways. One of the most common is to roll over onto your back and expose your belly.
This behavior may seem like a sign of submission, but it's actually a sign of trust. When a cat exposes his belly, he is showing that he feels comfortable and safe around you.
So if your cat turns around when he sees you, it's a sign of affection, not submission.
frequent questions
1. Why do cats turn around when they see you?
One reason could be that they want you to pet them. When they turn around, they expose their soft bellies, which can be overwhelming for many people. Another possibility is that they are trying to show that they trust you. By exposing their vulnerable side, they show that they feel safe around you and comfortable in your presence.
2. Do all cats turn on their backs when they see people?
No, not all cats do this. Some cats may never turn around in front of people, while others may only turn around on certain people. It really varies from cat to cat.
3. Is there anything I can do to get my cat to roll over?
If your cat isn't already doing this, there probably isn't much you can do to encourage it. Some cats are more likely to roll over than others. However, you can try offering your cat a treat or some petting when he rolls over to face up. This can help reinforce the behavior.
4. My cat turns around when I get home from work. Are you happy to see me?
Your cat may be happy to see you and is trying to show his tummy as a show of affection. However, it could also be that his cat associates coming home with being petted or given a treat, so he anticipates that.
5. I think my cat rolls over to show me his belly, but he always seems to do this when I'm busy and can't pet him. Is he just trying to piss me off?
Your cat is unlikely to try to bother you. Most likely, he simply does not understand that you cannot stroke him at that very moment. Cats can be pretty stubborn when it comes to getting attention, so they may just keep rolling around until you finally get a chance to pet them.
final thoughts
There are a few reasons why cats turn around when they see you. One reason could be that they feel playful and want to interact with you. Another reason could be that they feel relaxed and comfortable around you. Whatever the reason, it's clear that cats love to roll over, and it's a behavior you might enjoy too.
FAQs
Why do cats roll around when they see you? ›
Think of it as kitty zen mode. If a cat rolls over in front of you, it's a good sign. This is your cat's way of saying, "I trust you." Exposing the belly and/or sensitive parts is a very vulnerable moment for your cat, which is an opportunity for both of you to bond.
How do cats react when they see other cats? ›Cats can be very social. They greet each other through nose touches. They show affection by rubbing their heads against each other and along the sides of their bodies. Sometimes cats may even hook their tails and rub them together.
When a cat rolls over in front of another cat? ›We've all seen it. Cats walking nearby and suddenly flopping over on their back with a wriggle called the social roll, but why do they do it? Like all cat postures, there are subtle variations of meaning but whether it's a human or animal watching them, it's a friendly, non-aggressive stance demonstrating comfort.
How do cats show submission to other cats? ›If your cat has their tail between their legs, it's a sign of anxiety and submission. When something makes your cat nervous, like a new environment or a new family member, they'll tuck away their tail.
Why do cats look back at you when walking? ›Cats are incredibly curious by nature and they always want to know what's going on. It could be just that they're observing you to see if you're going to do anything interesting. Cats are visual hunters and when they go outdoors, they're on high alert, keeping their keen eyes peeled for anything moving.
Why do cats stare at you when you aren't looking? ›They love their owner(s) and feel dependent on them for security, comfort, play and food. Having a staring contest is just another way to affirm your bond.
Why do cats get mad when they see other cats? ›Most cats will have a “home territory,” and they may be picky about who treads on it. If another cat (or even a dog, strange animal, or guest human) invades this area, a cat will often become stressed and may lash out at the intruder, trying to drive them off and re-establish their security.
Why does my cat get angry when he sees another cat? ›Some of the underlying non-medical causes for aggression between cats in the same household include fear, lack of socialisation, inappropriate introduction of a new cat, overcrowding (i.e. not enough vertical or horizontal space, too few resources etc), redirected aggression, play and predation.
Do cats recognize their cat friends? ›Cats can remember each other's names when living in the same household, according to a new study. The research, conducted by Kyoto University and published in Scientific Reports, found cats could identify other felines by their names and faces.
How do you know which cat is dominant? ›Dominant cats may attempt to establish their dominance in a multiple cat household by hissing, hitting, and growling. They may also urinate outside of the litter box in areas that the other cats frequent, push other cats out of the food bowl until they are done eating, and make the other cats feel threatened.
Why do cats purr when you talk to them? ›
In most cases, cats will purr when they are in a relaxed environment, sending out waves of calmness. This may also occur when you stroke them, and if this is the case, your feline friend is feeling happy or sociable. However, cats purr to communicate other emotions and needs, too.
What are warning signs when introducing cats? ›Normal language would be sniffing, pawing, and even growling. Warning signs would be flattened ears, twitching tail and hissing, if you see any of these warning signs, you may be in for a bit of a battle when the two first initially meet.
What language do cats think in? ›Cats lack the cognitive skills to interpret human language, but they recognize when you talk to them. To put it another way, cats comprehend human language in the same way that we understand meowing. It's similar to how you interpret your cat's language by "reading" how they arch their back or swish their tail.
Where your cat sleeps on your bed and what it means? ›If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
Why do cats stare at you then look away? ›To cats, a direct stare paired with other aggressive body language can sometimes seem like a challenge to them. This is why cats avert their gaze to show you that they trust you and know you aren't a threat to them.
Why do cats stare at you without blinking? ›The Cat Is Curious Or Surprised
“It doesn't mean that cats are upset, but if they're staring at you without blinking they're likely very interested or surprised by a sound you're making or something you're doing,” as Dr. Georgina Ushi Phillips, DVM at Better With Cats, tells Romper.
Basically, your cat wants your attention, and she wants it now. Recognizing that you'll be distracted by other things, such as the TV, another person or sleep, your fur baby knows that you can't ignore her if she stands on your torso and, in many cases, stares directly into your eyes.
Why should you not stare a cat in the eyes? ›Direct eye contact
Cats can find direct eye contact quite threatening. They wouldn't look another cat straight in the face unless they were fixing for a fight. When your cat's relaxed, they might look at you with a peaceful gaze or half closed eyes. A “slow blink” is your cat's way of saying they love you.
As for what they're privy to that we're not, it's both appetizing and not: patterns on flowers that reveal the presence of nectar, and a urine-marked landscape. Those sights would be put to good use: The urine trails could signal the presence of prey, for instance.
What are cats doing when they stare at nothing? ›"When cats appear to be staring into space, they may actually be detecting subtle motion, as their vision is much more acute than ours," Dr. Barrack said. In fact, a 2014 study suggested that both cats and dogs see some spectrums of light that we don't — like ultraviolet (UV) light.
How do cats show jealousy? ›
Signs of Jealousy in Cats
Typical "jealous" behaviors include hissing, growling, and swatting at the object that the cat is jealous of, such as your cell phone while you are holding it. Jealous cats may also intrude on your personal space while you are holding a new baby or video game controller.
Cats that have set up separate territories in the house and don't really get along will: Chase or run away from one another and avoid contact. You may notice that one cat consistently leaves the room when one enters. Watch each other intently and may hiss or spit when they meet.
How do you know if your cat is jealous of another cat? ›Signs of Jealousy in Cats
Hissing and growling. Swatting at an object. Scratching. Biting.
Jealousy can happen occasionally even when it seems as if your cats usually get along well. Most cats enjoy social interaction of some kind, whether it's with other cats or a favorite family member. If your cat feels like their buddy is the center of attention, they might do their best to shift the focus onto them.
Should you let cats fight it out? ›Don't let them fight it out.
If it's a real fight, never let your cats fight it out. Cats don't solve disagreements with aggressiveness. You don't want to get in the middle of two fighting cats, so try to distract them instead, with a loud noise or sudden movement to break their concentration on their fight.
Obviously, pets can't read the sign, and it's unlikely they feel embarrassed or ashamed. While a pet getting into trouble from time to time can be amusing, ongoing behavioral issues can be disruptive to the entire household. They can also be harmful to the pet, depending on the behavior.
Do cats think Their owners are other cats? ›Cats treat humans as their mothers.
Because what being doesn't love their mother figure? In fact, cats behave independently because they think humans are cats like them. They think we're just one of their kind. And cats reserve their affectionate behavior usually for the humans in their homes.
Unfortunately, your cat sees your pet-owner relationship much differently, according to the new book Cat Sense by English biologist Dr. John Bradshaw. It actually thinks you're a “larger, non-hostile” cat.
Do cats learn their names? ›Cats Recognize Their Own Names—Even If They Choose to Ignore Them. Cats are notorious for their indifference to humans: almost any owner will testify to how readily these animals ignore us when we call them. But a new study indicates domestic cats do recognize their own names—even if they walk away when they hear them.
What color is dominant in cats? ›There are two basic colors of cats, black and red. These are called “dominant” colors. The color of all cats relates to these two colors in some way, by changing the color or covering it up. There is also a “dilute” of each color.
What side of a cat has the most if you are? ›
Which side of a cat has the most fur? Answer: Outside.
Are female cats left or right pawed? ›Scientists have discovered that many pet cats show a marked preference for the right or left front paw when it comes to walking down stairs, stepping over an object, or reaching for food. These preferences also differ by sex—males tend to prefer their left paws, whereas females were more likely to be righties.
Do cats like it when you meow back? ›Sorry to break it to you, but human meows mean nothing to cats. At most, you can get your cat's attention and they may even appreciate your attempts to communicate by purring or even meowing back. But to most cats, human meows sound like human language.
Do cats like it when you touch their paws? ›However, sensitivity is not the only reason why your cat doesn't like their paws to be touched. In a way, when you hold your cat's paw, you're neutralizing their defence mechanism: the claws, which makes your cat feel vulnerable and trapped, and that's why they bite.
Do cats like it when you baby talk them? ›Using “baby talk” could effectively grab your cat's attention, a small study finds. But this bond appears unique to owners: When strangers addressed the cats, even high-pitched cooing wasn't enough to pique the animals' interest.
How do you know if a cat wants to be friends with another cat? ›Clinginess. If your cat meows a lot, follows you around, and won't leave you alone, they may be asking for more social interaction.
What happens when two cats meet? ›It takes most cats eight to 12 months to develop a friendship with a new cat. Although some cats certainly become close friends, others never do. Many cats who don't become buddies learn to avoid each other, but some cats fight when introduced and continue to do so until one of the cats must be re-homed.
What happens if you introduce cats too quickly? ›Introducing too quickly with little preparation will often lead to cats feeling threatened and scared, which increases the chance of aggressive behaviour being shown. Once cats feel this way about each other, it can be extremely difficult to change their minds.
At what age can you tell a cat's personality? ›By about two years of age, a cat's personality is fully developed, and it's easier to be sure what you're getting.
Are girl cats or boy cats calmer? ›Many pet owners say that female cats are quieter, calmer, and less playful than males. Females also tend to be more independent and happy to spend time alone, so a female cat can be a good choice if you'll be out at work all day and just want to be welcomed with a purr when you get home.
How do Alpha cats behave? ›
Some have an agenda of their own and seemingly refuse to take no for an answer. These are “alpha cats.” They are natural leaders; they refuse to be led and attempt to take charge of practically every situation. These cats like their food when they want it and the way that they like it … or else.
What are the 16 known cat words? ›- Growl and Anger Wail.
- Snarl.
- Mating Cry (intense form)
- Pain Scream.
- Refusal Rasp.
- Spitting.
Do cats understand when you say no? Cats don't understand language, so they will not respond if you just say words to them, including "no." However, they can be taught to understand that saying "no" means you want them to stop what they are doing.
What do our cats see us as? ›You really are more than just a source of food to your cat: A study published Monday finds that cats see their owners as a source of comfort and security, too. In other words, they do love you ... even if they don't show it.
What is Splooting cats? ›"Sploot" is a slang term for the position pets take when they lay on their stomach with their legs stretched out behind them. Dogs can sploot, too, but there's nothing quite like the sploot of the ever-agile cat. cat laying on floor in a sploot postion. Mercedes Santana / Getty.
What does it mean when a cat curls up next to you? ›When your cat is curled up near you, they're simply letting you know that they feel safe. This is your feline friend's way of letting you know that they trust you.
Why do cats cover their face when they sleep? ›This means before napping they may find a vantage point somewhere high up, or they might even bury their head in a basket of laundry to help give them a sense of security. Either way, they know their pretty faces are also their most vulnerable point, so it makes sense that covering them helps them feel more secure.
Why does my cat roll on its belly when it sees me? ›If you notice your cat showing their belly when they first see you — after school or work, for example — it's probably a sign that they're happy to see you and want some attention. Think of it as excitement and a sign of love.
Why do cats roll over and show you their belly? ›Exposing the Exposed Belly
When a cat shows you their belly, the cat is relaxed, comfortable, and doesn't feel threatened. They feel safe enough to expose their vulnerable areas without worrying about being attacked. They are pretty much telling you, “I trust you with my life.” It's a great honour!
- Your kitty purrs around you. ...
- They sit on you. ...
- You've seen the 'slow blink' ...
- You have a sleeping buddy. ...
- They bring you gifts. ...
- Head bumping happens. ...
- You're being followed. ...
- You've seen your cat's belly, a lot.
Why does my cat trill when he sees me? ›
Why do cats trill? Attention. Trilling is originally used by cat moms to attract kittens' attention and ask them to follow her. Your cat may produce the same sound to make you notice her, and after she has grabbed your attention, she will lead you – just follow and see what's so important.
What does it mean when a cat licks you? ›Your cat is expressing her affection for you.
Your cat's licking may be an affiliative behavior, which is a friendly, altruistic behavior. Mothers groom their kittens, and cats may groom one another, which is called allogrooming.
Cats that bite or scratch in the middle of being petted are cats in emotional conflict. They want attention but they fear it too. To begin with they enjoy a little contact and love, but after a certain time they get frightened. At this point they bite or scratch in order to bring the petting to an end.
Why do cats swat at you when you pet them? ›Overstimulation: Aggression can occur as a normal response to being petted or handled in areas or ways your cat finds uncomfortable. It could also happen when the petting or handling have gone on for too long. Some cats exhibit overstimulation which leads to petting-induced aggression.
What does it mean when a cat lets you touch its paws? ›It is a very important and sensitive part of their body. However, if your cat lets you touch its paws, it means that they love and trust you. This small action truly demonstrates that you have created a great bond with your cat as they trust you enough to let you touch one of the most sensitive areas of their body.
Why does my cat grab my hand and bite me? ›The most common reason that cats bite their owners isn't that they have an aggressive cat, it's because they are trying to play! While sharp teeth or claws may not feel very “playful” to you, hunting behavior equals play behavior for your kitty. This means stalking, pouncing, biting, and kicking.
How do cats pick their favorite person? ›According to a study done by the nutrition company, Canadae, they discovered that the person who makes the most effort is the favorite. People who communicate with their cat by getting to know their cues and motives are more attractive to their cat companions.
How do cats show sadness? ›Cats alter their behavior when they mourn much like people do: They may become depressed and listless. They may have a decreased appetite and decline to play. They may sleep more than usual and move more slowly, sulking around.
Why do cats follow you to the bathroom? ›The bathroom is full of the smells of you: your cat's favorite human! You spend time there doing important things, or at least it may seem that way to your cat. Your cat may be intrigued by watching you do all the little things humans do in there.
Why do cats purr and then bite you? ›Are you confused when your cat is snuggling on your lap, purring, seemingly content, you are gently stroking them and all is harmonious… then they turn around and bite you? Rest assured, this is not unusual! Some kitty lovers call this a 'love bite', others call it petting aggression.
Why does my cat chirp and stare at me? ›
Your Cat Stares at You to Show Affection
Cats can use staring as a nonverbal way of communicating. Even though a long, unblinking stare may not be the best way for humans to show affection, when your fur baby does this, it may mean they're showing love to their favourite owner.
They love you and want to show their affection
Another common reason why your clingy cat follows you around the house is that they are showing love and affection. While cats have gotten a bad rap being stereotyped as aloof or "evil," cat owners can quickly debunk this myth.