Of course, she switches things up now and then. Sometimes she sleeps with her ears perked up and paw pads stretched out to the gods (looking like the fluffiest little Superman you’ve ever seen). Other times, she sleeps like a little meatloaf with her paws tucked under her body and face buried within the sheets.

Oh and, we can’t forget about the times she sleeps on you because she can’t spend a moment away from you. And, to be completely honest, that’s the proof you need to make everyone who ever dared utter “cats are standoffish” and “cats aren’t capable of loving humans” eat their words.

But that’s not what we’re here to talk about! Back to the point, cats have strange sleeping habits and there’s no telling when, where, and how they’re going to sleep. Your fluffer can sleep on her back for many different reasons unbeknownst to you. But that’s not a reason for you to worry.

Needless to say, we’ve done the research and decided to bring you a rundown of the most common reasons your cat is a back sleeper. Oh, don’t forget to schedule a vet’s appointment should you suspect a health problem. Other than that, keep on reading!

1. She feels safe and secure

Trust me, there isn’t a better way for your fluffer to show you how much she trusts you. We can’t forget about the fact that our purrinces and purrincesses have descended from the lions and pumas of the world. So they assume the “survival mode” the moment they’re born because that’s what’s in their nature.

That means that they protect themselves even when they’re sleeping. More often than not, cats sleep curled like a crescent Moon because that’s how they protect their organs. Other times they sleep with their paws covering their faces because that’s how they protect their eyes.

But when cats sleep with their stomachs exposed, they’re communicating how safe and secure they feel. Make sure your four-legged friend knows that she can trust you to keep her out of harm’s way. And, she might start sleeping on her back at all times.

2. She’s getting ready to attack

Quite different from what we discussed beforehand, cats often sleep on their back because they’re getting ready to attack. “Wait, she’s sleeping but thinking of attacking someone?” While that’s a great question, cats are sneaky creatures – they aren’t always sleeping when they’re lounging on the floor.

And what might surprise you more than anything, she’s probably pretending to sleep to get you to touch her stomach. Of course, the moment that you do that, she’s going to attack you and make you regret trusting her. Cats love teasing in that way because they’re testing that hunting prowess we mentioned beforehand.

On the other hand, she might even be teasing another cat given that she’s not your only pet. Depending on the environment, she might be pretending to sleep because you’re having people over or because you’re making her play with your neighbor’s annoying kitten.

3. She’s giving her muscles a break

Oh, cats have such difficult lives lounging around the apartment and munching on delicious foods we bring to them on a silver platter! But, that might be one of the reasons your cat is sleeping on her back. She’s simply switching positions because she’s trying to find what works best for her.

While cats can become defensive and protective of their stomach area, there are times when they have to expose themselves simply because they’re exhausted.

Truth be told, sleeping on your back has to be one of the most comfortable positions after a long day at the office. Therefore, cats know what they’re doing when they decide that’s how they want to spend the day.

Make sure you check whether your cat’s been doing gymnastics while you’re at work and that’s why she’s been trying to ease up her muscles. Other than that, don’t freak out if she’s been sleeping on her back more frequently than before. She’s probably tired from getting on your nerves.

4. She’s experiencing digestive problems

Before you start huffing and puffing because you’re worried about your fluffer ending up at the ER, she’s probably not that unwell. But, cats might decide to expose the stomach area when they’re dealing with digestive problems.

Whether they’re nauseous because of something they ate or experiencing cramps, sleeping that way ensures that they’re not squishing their stomachs with their weight. As a result, they tend to feel better when they wake up.

On the other hand, you might notice other symptoms accompanying sleeping on her back. Anything ranging from vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, and weight loss, to fever, dehydration, and overgrooming of the abdomen might indicate something’s wrong.

Don’t delay in contacting your vet the moment that you notice any of these symptoms.

5. She’s trying to cool off on a hot day

Whenever you notice your fluffer doing something out of the ordinary, don’t forget to observe the environment and the circumstances under which she’s doing that. By and large, you’re going to draw connections between the two and figure out the motivation behind the behavior that’s bothering you.

What do we mean by that? When your cat starts sleeping on her back, check whether she’s doing that when she’s warm. Maybe it’s whenever she’s been running around the backyard for a couple of hours and then trying to cool off. Maybe there’s a heatwave and she’s trying to prevent herself from turning into a puddle of sweat.

Whatever the case might be, cats sometimes sleep that way because they’re overheating (with the amount of fluff they possess, nobody’s blaming them). Make sure you’re helping your kitty cool off by providing her with plenty of water and shade on a hot summer day.

6. She’s trying to warm up on a cold winter day

On the opposite side of the spectrum, you might catch a glimpse of your cat sleeping on her back on a cold winter day. Now, she’s probably not trying to cool off because that wouldn’t make sense. But, she might be trying to warm up by making use of the same strategy she came across over the summer.

Turns out cats are great at finding spots of sunshine on the coldest of winter days. Whether they’re outside rummaging through the snow or surrounded by the comfort of the bedsheets. Cats possess the power to spot the littlest patches of sunshine and make themselves warmer that way.

That’s the same reason why you might come across your cat sleeping under the blanket or napping next to the fireplace. Don’t forget to check whether you’re providing your fluffy friend with enough heat to ensure she’s happy and healthy. And, as for your not-so-fluffy friend, cat coats are always an option.

7. She wants tummy rubs and she wants them right meow

“You literally JUST told me not to pet my cat while she’s sleeping on her back!?” As a matter of fact, you can never go wrong by opting to protect yourself rather than putting yourself in harm’s way for the sake of your cat’s entertainment. But, on the off-chance you’re willing to play her game, here’s what you need to know.

There are times when cats sleep on their backs because they want you to touch them. We’re not talking about when they’re teasing you because they want you to make a wrong move and account for the attack. We’re talking about them wanting to cuddle and snuggle with you.

Cats communicate the best way they know how. And, body language seems to be the key to understanding what they’re trying to say from the moment they’re born. Therefore, when your cat seems happy and kittenish, she (probably) doesn’t have bad motives – she’s merely trying to show you affection.

8. She’s ready for a pampering session

Now, there’s something incredibly interesting about a fluffer that actually appreciates grooming, brushing, and pampering! When you think about that, most cats grunt and squint at the very thought of getting touched by humans for an hour straight – especially when the touching involves a brush (or God forbid, water).

But we can’t overlook the fact that some mousers treasure hanging out with humans, getting their hair done, and talking about pop culture (we’re kidding, but wouldn’t that be great!?) Nevertheless, your cat might appreciate grooming because that’s what her mother used to do when she was a kitten.

Supposing that your cat drops down and shows you her stomach the moment you enter the room, she wants you to groom her. However, if she’s been on her back the entire time you were gone, she’s communicating something completely different.

9. She’s single and ready to mingle

That’s something a pet parent doesn’t want to hear, but here we are! That’s right, your precious purrincess might have a crush on someone and that’s why she’s sleeping on her back. Therefore, she’s communicating that she’s ready to mate.

Though that might seem strange, cats release pheromones from different parts of the body in order to attract other cats. Other than that, your cat might start marking her territory to attract other cats. She might start rubbing her teeth on you, pawing at the floor, and scratching the furniture.

Not to mention the attention-seeking behavior such as rolling around, meowing loudly, and assuming the oddest of positions while napping. Therefore, your cat might be sleeping on her back because she’s hoping to attract a mate.

Consider contacting your vet and checking what your best options are for spaying or neutering.

10. She’s pregnant

Oh, turns out she attracted that mate before you even noticed she was sleeping on her back. “Wouldn’t I notice my cat was pregnant!?” Maybe you would, but maybe not.

Cats don’t show the bump for a number of weeks after they conceive. And, pregnant cats prefer sleeping on their back because that helps them get rid of some of that pressure (carrying a baby ain’t easy).

But, there are a couple of common symptoms that can help you figure out whether she’s pregnant or not. Look for appetite changes, weight fluctuations, sleeping (all the time), nesting, and various body changes (swollen abdomen, strange appearance of the nipples). Good luck!

Don’t get me wrong, there’s hardly anything better than waking up to your fluffy friend meowing your ears off because she thought you forgot about her while you were sleeping. Additionally, there’s hardly a better way of bonding with your four-legged friend than sharing the bedding arrangement.

And, cats do have a reputation for being standoffish and detached which can make the whole bonding experience a nightmare. But, when you’re looking to deepen your connection with your curious creature, nothing’s stopping you from snuggling with her… Other than the fact she keeps sleeping with her eyes open.

Of course, you’re bound to witness strange sleeping habits when sharing your bed with a member of the feline world. However, nothing prepared you for the fact that the previously-mentioned feline looks possessed while she sleeps. And, we’re not even referring to those demonic sounds escaping her mouth when she’s fard down the dreamland.

Therefore, we’re bringing you everything you need to know about your cat sleeping with her eyes open before you freak out and contact your vet at 3 a.m. on everyone’s day off. Keep on reading, why don’t you?!

1. Because of the sleep cycle

That’s right, cats have a sleep cycle the same way humans do – stages and everything! When your cat opens her eyes while she’s sleeping, she’s probably experiencing the first stage of the sleep cycle known as the NREM (or Non-Rapid Eye Movement).

That’s not strange for a cat considering that’s when she’s awake enough to notice what’s going on around her. On the off chance that she notices a butterfly or a human waving a chicken nugget, she has enough energy (and time) to wake up and attack – whether the attack seems necessary or not.

But, the moment that she enters the REM (or Rapid Eye Movement) stage of her sleep cycle, she’s going to close both of her eyes (or at least one). And, that’s when you might notice your kitty twitching, chirping, or even moving her muscles because they’re dreaming and recharging.

So, when you catch a glimpse of your cat sleeping with her eyes open, know that she’s experiencing the NREM stage of her sleep cycle, and don’t touch her.

2. Because she hurt one (or both) of her eyes

Cats are curious creatures! They spend most of the day running around the apartment, chasing after whatever they can play with, and knocking down whatever they can reach. They don’t shy away from exploring the world around them and experimenting with different physical activities.

And, as you might have guessed, they don’t shy away from hurting themselves (preferably while you’re busy doing something else). Therefore, there’s a chance your cat might be sleeping with her eyes open because she hurt one of them (or both) while she was playing earlier that day.

What do you do, then? Contact your vet the moment that you notice signs of scratches or lacerations around the eyes. Observe her while she’s sleeping with her eyes open and check for other symptoms.

Some of the things you might want to look for are watery eyes, discharge, scratches, redness, murkiness, and swelling. Don’t forget to contact your vet as soon as you catch sight of anything out of the ordinary.

3. Because there’s something stuck in one (or both) of her eyes

Keeping up with eye problems, there’s another one that might be causing your cat to keep sleeping with her eyes open. While they’re running around the backyard and playing outside, cats often get pollutants stuck in their eyes. These can be sand, dirt, and even thorns.

Such pollutants can cause damage to the outside of the eye and make your fluffy friend uncomfortable. And, as you might have guessed, the more uncomfortable she gets, the more likely she becomes to sleep with one or both of her eyes open.

Now, pollutants and contaminants can cause other health problems (inflammations, infections, and permanent damage to the eye).

Make sure to always check your four-legged friend for symptoms such as rubbing, squinting, redness, swelling, eye discharge, nasal discharge, and sneezing. Contact your vet the moment that you notice any of them, of course.

4. Because she’s dealing with dry eyes

Oh, we can’t forget about dry eyes (one of the most uncomfortable conditions your fluffer can have). Of course, she might be sleeping with her eyes open because she can’t close them due to something known as Dry Eye Syndrome.

Dryness caused by the lack of tears (and hydration) within the eye area can cause other health problems.

Some of the most common symptoms you might notice beforehand are swollen blood vessels, blindness, excessive blinking, eye mucus, protruding eyelids, and corneal ulcers. Other than that, you might notice your cat getting more and more depressed, lethargic, and annoyed.

As a matter of fact, sleeping with her eyes open might be the easiest of the symptoms considering that she could suffer from serious, life-altering side effects when left untreated. Therefore, contact your vet when you notice she’s blinking, squinting, and sleeping with her eyes open.

5. Because she’s dealing with other health problems

We can’t overlook the fact that a bunch of health problems could be related to the fact that your cat keeps sleeping with her eyes open. She might be experiencing symptoms you haven’t been able to catch. And, sleeping with her eyes open seems to be the one that caught your attention.

What other conditions could be related to her sleeping habits? Turns out she could be dealing with pretty much anything. Cats often sleep differently when they’re hurting, when they’re alert because of something they’re feeling, and when they’re experiencing other symptoms.

Some of the symptoms that might cause you to contact your vet are depression, lethargy, decreased appetite, weight loss, and decreased quality of life. That’s when you know your fluffer’s going through something. Make sure you keep your vet up-to-date with everything you observed beforehand.

6. Because she heard something

Moving away from health-related reasons, there’s a chance that your cat might be sleeping with her eyes open because she’s reacting to her environment. Cats don’t necessarily have the reputation for being “light sleepers”. But, they’re not fond of sleeping while there’s a party right outside the bedroom door.

They might wake up when they hear you have people over. They might meow to let you know they’re awake and ready to play when they hear your neighbor’s dog barking outside.

And, they might sleep with one or both eyes open when they want to watch what’s going on when everyone thinks they’re far down the dreamland.

On the other hand, your precious purrincess might be uncomfortable with the environment she’s sleeping in. Maybe she doesn’t like the white noise machine or the Youtube playlist you put on. So, you should make sure she’s comfortable before you leave her to dream about chicken nuggets.

7. Because she’s scared

Right off the bat, you might not have been aware of the fact that cats can have night terrors. Sure, there are plenty of discussions dealing with whether or not cats can dream. But, most pet parents agree that cats can wake up scared and startled (most likely because of night terrors.)

We’ve mentioned the fact that cats have similar stages of the sleep cycle, right? During the REM stage, cats normally experience the deepest state of sleep. This cycle may or may not be accompanied by different dreams.

Therefore, the REM stage of the sleep cycle can cause your cat trauma, stress, and anxiety which can lead to night terrors.

And, the best way you can recognize whether she’s dealing with night terrors can be to observe her behavior when she wakes up. More often than not, she’s going to be upset, uncomfortable, and completely unaware of what happened.

8. Because she’s attached to you

“My cat’s sleeping with her eyes open because she wants to look at me while she’s sleeping?!”

We agree, that’s pretty much the best problem anyone could ask for. When your cat wants to sleep but doesn’t want to abandon whatever the two of you were doing, she’s likely to (accidentally) go to sleep with her eyes open.

As a matter of fact, that typically happens with kittens because they’re attached to you more than grown cats. Actually, kittens view you as a parent.

When they’re nervous, they want to feel closer to you. When they need attention and affection, they want you to be there for them. And, when they’re unable to sleep, they want to see you’re there for them.

Make sure you do everything you can to make your fluffer comfortable enough to sleep. Consider letting your kitten sleep with you for the time being. Or, consider getting her a friend to help her feel safe and secure. Given that you’re not happy with the thought of letting her sleep with you.

9. Because she’s not sleeping

We know what you’re thinking! “Umm, you mean to tell me she’s been messing with me the entire time? My cat’s not sleeping with her eyes open, she’s not sleeping…period!” And, that’s not far from the truth. But, you might be surprised by the reason why your cat sometimes pretends she’s sleeping when she’s not.

Here’s the thing, cats are wild, wild creatures. Now, your purrincess might not look like she belongs to the jungle because she spends her days lounging around your apartment and doing nothing. However, you can’t forget about the fact that she took over a thing or two from her ancestors.

So, when your cat “sleeps” with her eyes open, there’s a chance she’s aware of her surroundings because she’s waiting for something. Or, because she’s fearing someone. She wants to sleep, but at the same time, she doesn’t want to leave anything to chance.

10. Because she’s waiting for food

Oh, we don’t even need to go there, do we?! Nothing’s surprising about the fact that cats are willing to go above and beyond for some food.

And, there’s nothing that would stop them from waking up the moment they hear the crinkling sound of the Fancy Feast pouch.

That’s right, your cat keeps sleeping with her eyes open because she’s waiting for you to feed her. On that account, consider revisiting the feeding hours because there’s a chance you’re not feeding her often enough.

On the other hand, she might be waiting for food because she’s a cat and she can eat whenever. Whatever the case might be, don’t shy away from checking whether she’s getting enough food.

The mother may have died and left the entire litter behind. Or rejected one because she sensed it was getting sick and she wanted to protect the rest of the litter. Or maybe the mother was the one that got sick and wasn’t able to take care of them.

In practice, the process of hand-rearing a kitten entails feeding (spoon, bottle, or syringe), cleaning and toileting, monitoring the health of the kitten (regular vet check-ups, too), and keeping the kitten warm, secure, and socialized.

With that out of the way, hand-reared kittens grow to become pretty pleased with humans and their shenanigans. They don’t mind when you spend hours of the day cuddling, petting, and smothering them with your love. They don’t mind when your friends, neighbors, or even other animals do that, either.

We could argue that hand-reared kittens are more affectionate. But, but, but… There’s always a but when we’re talking about kittens and their (pretty endearing, but ever so odd) behavior. Take a look at what we’ve gathered and draw your own conclusions.

Take a peek at what you can look forward to when you take on the role of the kitten’s mother. You’d be surprised at the amount of love a little furball’s willing to offer in return for a lick of milk.

1. They’re more likely to trust humans

Here’s the thing – when you take care of a kitten from a very young age, you can bank on the fact that the kitten becomes attached to you.

You might be a little less fluffy than her and you might not speak the same language as she does (your super realistic “meow” doesn’t help). But, you’re the only motherly figure she’s got.

Most kittens that grow up with the help of a human end up trusting the human more than anyone else. That’s not to say that they trust every human they cross paths with. But, they’re pretty pleased with the “kitten gets cuddles from everyone around” thing.

And, granted that you do everything you can to help your kitten grow happy and healthy, you’re bound to have a fluffy friend for life. Kittens that have spent most of their lives around humans tend to trust them more than other animals. But not when they haven’t been treated the right way (obviously).

2. They’re less likely to be scared and skittish around humans

“Shouldn’t such a tiny, teething kitten be scared of humans and human foods from the beginning? How can I earn her trust when she can’t even open her eyes to see me!?” We’ve warned you that taking care of a kitten would require a bunch of your effort, energy, and time. And, we weren’t messing with you.

Kittens whose mothers abandoned them at a young age ARE scared of humans, for the most part. Depending on how old they were when they were separated, most kittens don’t even realize that they’re not taken care of by their own mother.

As they grow up, they learn that humans are their family. Humans are the ones feeding them, cleaning them, playing with them, and doing everything that their mother would do. Actually, you are their mother to them. No wonder they aren’t scared or skittish around humans, right?

3. They’re more likely to be friendly with other kittens and cats

“Are hand-reared kittens more affectionate?” seems like a question geared toward humans. You’d assume that the humans asking this question wonders whether a hand-reared kitten would display more love and affection towards other humans. But, what’s the deal with other cats?

Wouldn’t a hand-reared kitten be more adverse towards other cats? Wouldn’t such a kitten become scared of other cats? While that might sound like a pawsibility, most little stinkers growing up around humans learn how to play with other kittens, too.

That’s because most humans do their best to provide their fluffy baby with an equally fluffy friend. In fact, playtime and other activities like that are ESSENTIAL for keeping your hand-reared kitten happy and healthy.

4. They’re easier to train

That’s right! Not only are hand-reared kittens more affectionate, but they’re also easier to train. These mischievous monsters spend most of their days hanging out with humans. They’re bound to pick up a trick or two, especially when you actually try to teach them something.

You and your hand-reared kitten might not speak the same language, but you’re guaranteed to understand each other purrfectly. Give her a chance – try to teach her how to use the toilet (that’s right, some cats prefer human toilets) or how to clean her paws before she enters the apartment.

With a little love and patience, you won’t regret checking what she can do!

5. They’re easier to bond with

Hand-reared kittens are completely dependent on their humans for everything – feeding, cleaning, playing, and pretty much every aspect of their little lives you can think of. They spend every second of their day with their humans. They can’t NOT bond with them sooner or later.

How many times have you heard a pet parent say “My cat’s my baby!” That’s pretty much what a hand-reared kitten becomes to her human. And, that’s what you can expect when you decide to take care of that mini-mouser that’s been abandoned by her mom.

You’re observing your newest addition to the family as she attempts to get acquainted with the couch by meowing, purring, and ever-so-slightly hitting the bottom with her paws. She can’t get to the top (not that she hasn’t tried!) So, she’s pretty satisfied ruining the parts that nobody else can catch a glimpse of.

She’s happy on her own – running through every room of the apartment, knocking down glasses and other fragile valuables she can get her paws on, and scouring through the leftover dinner. But, every now and then she perks her ears up, throws a glance at you, and hits you with her tail.

Listen, nobody ever claimed that being a pet parent was an easy task. There are many things you need to learn, discover, and understand. But, the most important seems to always be that you keep on trying. And that’s what you’re doing now searching online for “Why does my cat hit me with her tail?”

1. She loves you

Let’s start off with an obvious one (or maybe not!?) When your furry friend hits you with her tail, she’s more than likely showing you her love and affection.

“Wait, what!? You’re meaning to tell me she’s not trying to make me feel like the worst pet parent EVER?”

That’s right, and based on your reaction, you’ve probably been personally victimized by your cat on more than one occasion. And that’s completely normal – cats have a weird way of showing their emotions, granted that they’re showing them at all.

They meow and purr at you to give them cuddles and kisses. But, when you do, they look at you like you’ve single-handedly murdered their entire family. They rub their cute little faces against your chest and purr their little hearts out, but when you try to do the same, they threaten to claw your eyes out.

So, you shouldn’t be surprised when your cat starts hitting you with her tail as a sign that she loves you. Sure, she’s a little weird – but, she’s got the spirit.

2. She’s curious

“Hmm, why does my cat hit me with her tail whenever we come back from the store? Or whenever we’re AT the store? Come to think, or whenever we’re doing pretty much anything related to the store?”

Cats are curious creatures, aren’t they? They love to investigate everything that’s around them – pushing things around with their paws, sniffing and licking things that are within their reach, and (apparently) hitting things with their tails.

When your little helper’s hitting you with her tail whenever the two of you finish doing something fun (like going to the store), chances are she’s simply exhibiting her curiosity. She’s showing you that she wants to check what’s in the bags, help you unpack the groceries, or even give some of them a little lick of love.

She doesn’t want you to shoo her away, so she’s resorting to hitting you with her tail as her way of saying “Hey, I’m right here and I would LOVE to help!”

She’s more than likely going to be pretty gutted when you tell her she can’t stay and munch on the groceries. So, make sure to give her a little kiss before you send her off.

3. She’s scared

That’s right, we’re going in a completely different direction. “How’s that possible, how can one gesture have such opposite meanings!?” Depending on the circumstances, your cat’s demeanor, and everything else that might affect the way your cat reacts – hitting you with her tail might mean that she’s scared.

The two of you might have walked into a dark room and she’s feeling threatened because she doesn’t know what’s behind the darkness. Or you might have witnessed an argument between other cats chasing each other around your backyard. Or you may have even accidentally run into each other and scared each other to death.

Depending on the scenario, your cat might be hitting you with her tail or wrapping her tail around your legs because she’s looking for a sense of safety.

Word of advice: When you have a good reason to believe your cat’s scared, don’t pick her up or try to comfort her the way you would a child. Let her be, or she’ll backfire.

4. She’s angry

Sounds pretty reasonable to assume that your cat is hitting you with her tail because she’s upset with you. Newsflash, you’re not going crazy and she actually might have a bone to pick with you (maybe because you haven’t given her that chicken bone!?)

Cats don’t really have much going for them with regard to expressing emotions (especially anger) towards their humans.

They can’t scream and shout, and they certainly can’t throw a plate at you. But, they can push things off of your shelves, wake you up in the middle of the night, and yes, hit you with their tail.

So, whenever your cat hits you with her tail again (and she will hit you again), you might want to apologize with a Fancy Feast or Meow Mix.

5. She wants your attention

And, there’s nothing more adorable than a pet that’s looking for your attention. Whether she’s reminding you of the time of the day when you typically go outside and chase each other around the garden or whether she’s jogging your memory that you promised to take her to the pet store.

There’s a pawsibility she’s hitting you with her tail because she wants to meow “All eyes on me, mister!” As a matter of fact, she’s pretty likely to do the same thing when she wants to show you something she’s discovered (typically a mouse she hunted down or your neighbor’s kittens!)

6. She’s claiming her territory

Umm, how do we put this…? Your cat may be hitting you with her tail because she’s trying to leave her scent on your clothes – to mark her territory so other cats know they shouldn’t come anywhere near you?

That’s right, your cat’s pretty much like that one crazy ex you’ve been avoiding for years. And contrary to popular belief, male cats aren’t the only ones marking their territory.

Sure, male cats love to pee on pretty much everything within their reach. But, every single cat loves to leave her scent on the thing that she doesn’t want anyone else touching. And this time, she doesn’t want anyone touching you. Cute!

7. She’s trying to get you out of her way

Yeah, this one might not be your cup of tea! Nobody wants to hear that their precious pet’s getting fed up with them. But, we can’t forget that these things happen more often than we’d like to admit.

Sure, you would love for Ms. McFluffer to spend every second of every waking hour with you. Chasing each other around the apartment, cuddling, watching your favorite movie (Aristocats, of course), and munching on snacks. But… there are times when she needs to take care of her own business.

And, it’s in these times that she needs you to get out of her way. She might swiftly move past you, give you a little flick of the tail as to say “Don’t you dare put anything in my path!” and leave.

8. She’s overwhelmed

Whether you’re having some friends over for a Sunday barbecue or babysitting your neighbor’s kittens, your cat might be hitting you with her tail because she’s overwhelmed. She’s trying to get your attention and meow at you hoping you’d understand “Get them out of my face!”

With that out of the way, we can’t forget to underline that you shouldn’t force your precious pet to socialize when she doesn’t want to.

Don’t get me wrong, some cats are very patient and loving, and they don’t have a problem with entertaining crowds. But, some cats do – and you don’t want them leaving a gash on your (or your guest’s) arm because you didn’t take the hint.

9. She’s playing with you

“Why does my cat hit me with her tail? Does that mean that she doesn’t want to hang out with me?” No, silly! That means the opposite of that – she’s using her secret tail language to tell you that she’s ready for that playdate with you!

Take a look at her. She should look like she’s super happy, energetic, and ready to take on the world as soon as you hand her the toy (you know exactly which toy she’s looking for, don’t you?) She’s hitting you with her tail and thinking “Come on, what’s stopping us from playing RIGHT NOW!?”

10. She’s signaling that she wants to eat

Last but not least, your cat’s hitting you with her tail because she’s hungry. We’ve already learned that cats use their tails to get your attention – now you have to figure out which gesture means what. How do you know she’s hungry? How do you know she’s looking for a snack?

Worry not, cats are pretty easy to read when they’re hungry. They start roaming around the kitchen hoping to stumble across a crumb or two (“Why does she clean everything!?”) They sniff every nook and cranny, and meow at you like they haven’t eaten anything all day.

And, they start hitting you with their tail to get your attention. They’re thinking “Oh god, she must’ve forgotten to feed me! Let me refresh her memory!” That’s right, Mrs. McFluffer has her way of telling you exactly what she needs you to hear. And, we’re hoping we helped you figure out what that means.

Right off the bat, nobody truly knows where these mysterious mousers came from. Rather than searching for answers, humans seem to have accepted that there are tales aplenty trying to make sense of where these curious creatures originated.

Whether they’re a combination of a raccoon and a cat, descendants of none other than Marie Antoinette’s Turkish Angora cats, or Charles Coon’s comrades, the world might never know.

On the other hand, we do know that Maine Coons are sought-after because they’re gentle with humans; friendly with cats, dogs, and any animals you might own; and happy to cuddle whenever and wherever you might want. Coons are the purrfect pets, whether or not they’re high maintenance.

Caring for a Maine Coon might be the simplest thing you’ll ever do. Sure, they’re a little fluffier than average moggies, which means you might need to bathe, brush, and groom them more often. But, that’s nothing compared to the sheer amount of attention you’ll get from them.

1. Provide your Maine Coon with a balanced, nutritious, and delicious diet

Cats are obligate carnivores which means they need meat, animal protein, and animal-sourced nutrients to survive and thrive. Maine Coons are no different. Offer them a bite of chicken here and there, but make sure you provide them with enough dry kibble, wet food, and treats throughout the day.

Maine Coons are large, lovable cats, which means they’re going to need much more food than the average cat. Moreover, some Coons prefer to eat whenever they want while others prefer to be fed at the same time every day.

Not to mention that some of them don’t even want to eat dry kibble, and would rather munch on wet foods on a regular. Now, you might be exhausted by the time you figure out what works for you and your fluffer. But we’re rooting for you!

2. Make sure your Maine Coon drinks enough water (they’re really bad at that)

Of course, you don’t need to worry about water when you make sure to arrange different drinking stations throughout the apartment.

On top of that, you might want to add something to the water (some gravy from the wet food packets, maybe?) because these frisky felines never remember to drink water.

Maine Coons aren’t different from other cats – they aren’t keen on water that tastes bad, but they’re drawn to take a sip or two when you offer them running water or water that resembles chicken broth. Coons aren’t afraid of getting wet, though, which might make sipping on water simpler for them.

3. Get your Coon a large litter box

Now, large cats need large litter boxes. Maine Coons are perfect the way they are, but we do need to reiterate that they’re bigger than average cats. They’re gorgeous giants, known to grow as tall as 10-16 inches, and as heavy as 8-18 pounds.

Because of that, they’re not enthusiastic about doing their business when they’re hanging on by a thread. Fortunately, there are XL and XXL litter boxes available on the market, so there’s nothing stopping you from offering your Coon the “bathroom” experience she deserves.

4. Urge your Coon to exercise, move, and maintain a healthy weight

Cats are cute when they’re cuddly, right? When you’re hanging out with your Maine Coon, you’re focused on offering her treats, rubbing her tummy, and playing with her floof.

We’re aware that your four-legged friend might not get excited about the prospect of running around, hopping on kitchen counters, or even going for a walk.

But, Coons need exercise even more than some of the other, smaller cats because they’re “large and in charge.” Most are prone to gaining weight, which means you’ll need to focus on providing your meower with enough physical activity to keep her healthy.

5. Purchase a scratching post, a climbing tree, or cat shelves

Caring for a Maine Coon means bestowing them a safe space to nap, hang out, and exercise. Now, you might think your big fluffer’s only goal is to scratch your furniture and destroy your brand-new Urban Outfitters sofa. But, she’s not the one to blame.

Cats are known to possess an instinctive, intuitive urge to scratch. Maine Coons might scratch furniture to express how they’re feeling, relieve some of the stress they’ve been under, spread their scent, and sharpen their claws. Scratching posts, climbing trees, and cat shelves are great for keeping your furniture safe and secure.

If you want to spoil your gentle giant, this huge cat tree by Prestige is the way to go. It’s specifically designed for large cat breeds such as your feline which means it offers plenty of space for uninterrupted play.

6. Proper toys are a must-have for entertainment

Maine Coons adore hanging out with humans, napping, cuddling, and even running around the apartment. While you might think you’re doing everything you can to keep your furry friend entertained, chances are you can’t spend every moment of your waking hour with her.

Coons are great with humans, but that doesn’t mean they’re not fond of playing with toys when they’re unattended. Buying toys might be out of the question for some pet parents, but there are affordable alternatives available on the market these days, which means you’re out of excuses.

We suggest going for trees, balls, floppy fish toys, and toys that’ll keep your Coon entertained for hours and hours while you’re watching your favorite TV show.

If you were a cat, I’m sure you would enjoy playing with a fish that keeps moving around your living room. So order one for your kitty and let her experience the same pleasure.

7. Consider getting another Coon to prevent anxiety, stress, and depression

Maine Coons are everyone’s favorite felines because they’re more affectionate than average cats. Cats are often described as detached, reserved, and standoffish because they’re aggressive when you try to touch them without consent.

But Maine Coons are clingy – they’re over the moon the moment you show them any attention. Because of that, your furry friend might follow you around the apartment, wait for you to wake up and hang out, or even follow you to the bathroom. Get her a friend and you won’t have to worry about that ever again.

8. Schedule regular veterinary checkups

When you’re a pet parent to a Maine Coon cat, you’re probably aware that these fluffers are healthy, strong, and destined to live a long life. But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any health problems to keep an eye on.

Maine Coons are susceptible to conditions such as hip dysplasia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease, and spinal muscular atrophy. While these terms might not mean anything to you, they’re frequent and familiar conditions to the vet.

Rather than trying to figure out what to do every time your Coon coughs, schedule regular veterinary checkups to ensure you’re staying on top of things.

9. Brush and trim your Coon’s coat when necessary

Caring for a Maine Coon demands numerous hours of deshedding, detangling, and dematting. Coons are adorned with heavy, fluffy coats that crave brushing and grooming.

We’re sure that your four-legged friend takes great care of her floof, but that doesn’t mean that she doesn’t need anyone’s assistance.

We suggest getting a sturdy shedding brush and brushing your Coon’s coat once a week or once every two weeks, depending on the state of your cat’s coat. Matted and knotted coats tend to take much more time and effort, so it’s best to stay on schedule.

10. Bathe your Coon when necessary

When you sneak a peek at your Coon from the other room, you might notice that she’s licking her paws, rubbing them over her face, and nibbling on her beans.

Cats are clean creatures – they’re known to spend a lot of time on hygiene. Coons are no different, which is why you don’t need to bathe her more than once a month.

On the chance that she’s not capable of cleaning her coat (because she’s under the weather or hurt), you might need to bathe her more often. Other than that, once a month sounds perfect.

11. Spay or neuter your Coon

Spaying or neutering your Maine Coon provides her with medical and behavioral benefits. Caring for a Maine Coon means making sure you’re doing everything you can to offer her a happy and healthy life, and these two simple procedures afford exactly that.

Spaying your female Coon prevents UTIs, uterine cancer, and breast cancer, keeps her hormones in check, and alleviates stress. Neutering your male Coon prevents testicular cancer and prostate problems, reduces aggressive behavior, and ensures a better overall mood.

12. Shower your Maine Coon with affection, attention, and appreciation

At the end of the day, Maine Coons need to know they’re adored and appreciated at all times. Make sure you spend quality time with your purrecious pet – playing with toys, taking a walk, napping on the sofa, or snuggling under the covers. Maine Coons can sense when they’re safe and secure.

God knows you’ve provided your mischievous monster with everything she could ever need to have a good night’s sleep – Urban Outfitters’ most luxurious beds, perches galore, and every room she wants other than your bedroom. What more could an average, ten-pound mouser need?

However, somehow she always ends up roaming around your bedroom at midnight, scanning the area around your bed, hopping on top of you, and picking the most comfortable spot… On your chest.

Here’s the thing, my cat sleeps all the time! Whether she’s exhausted from running around the apartment and knocking things down. Whether she’s lounging on the floor, munching on something she shouldn’t munch on. She’s napping even when she’s assuming a position that can’t be comfortable by any means.

Needless to say, there are times when you wonder whether a sleeping position means something more than you’re aware of, whether she’s communicating something, or asking for attention.

Truth be told, she switches things up now and then. Sometimes she looks like a fluffy, crescent Moon with her tail touching the tip of her head (who would’ve thought cats were such skilled contortionists!?). Other times, she stuffs her entire body in a cardboard box with her pouty snout sticking out of the opening… how?!

For the record – my mouser would score a “ten out of ten loaf” on that TikTok challenge that’s been going around. Anyways, out of every catnapping arrangement out there, your cat seems to appreciate sleeping on your chest the most. Without further ado, here’s what we’ve gathered.

1. She’s looking for warmth

Haven’t you noticed how much cats appreciate the heat? Chances are your cat doesn’t shy away from snuggling on your charger while you’re on a Zoom meeting.

She doesn’t mind burrowing in the middle of a pile of dirty laundry while you’re cleaning the bathroom. She doesn’t skip on cuddling near a radiator while you’re reading your favorite book.

Now, you might have a hard time understanding why felines enjoy doing these things. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with that considering the fact they enjoy chasing after cockroaches and sniffing each other’s nether regions.

But, sometimes felines aren’t as complicated as you might think. They’re creatures of warmth and they’re not afraid of showing that. So, when you notice your purrincess getting ready for her afternoon siesta on your chest, try your best not to overthink things.

Cancel your plans and spend as much time as you can cuddling with her. Or, provide her with an appropriate heating solution (a blanket, a pet-safe heating disc, and a thermal warming pad).

2. She’s marking her territory – you

While that doesn’t sound as lovely as “Your cat thinks you’re warm and she likes to sleep on top of you because of that”, you’re on the right track of becoming your cat’s… something.

You see, cats are territorial creatures. And, they cover pretty much everything with their scent to make sure everyone knows what belongs to them.

Couches, clothes, your grandma’s handmade blankets, your neighbor’s pottery – nothing’s off limits when we’re talking about which gadgets your mouser decided to claim as her own.

Most cats mark the desired area by leaving a trace of urine. But, they don’t shy away from doing a bunch of other things that might not even appear that suspicious.

For starters, have you ever noticed your cat rubbing her teeth on you? Have you ever caught a glimpse of your cat pawing at the floor or munching on the edge of your sofa?

Those are territory-marking behaviors. Your cat has a bunch of scent glands scattered across her body and she releases the scent by engaging in a bunch of strange behaviors.

3. She feels safe and secure when she’s sleeping on your chest

Back to regularly scheduled programming and adorable reasons why your cat keeps sleeping on your chest! First and foremost, chances are you make your fluffer feel safe and secure. By and large, cats show love and affection by snuggling with you. And, they don’t do that unless they trust you won’t harm them.

On the other hand, the thought behind sleeping on your chest might not even be your cat’s. Wild cats (your mouser’s ancestors) tend to seek safe spots for sleeping because they’re making sure they’re out of harm’s way.

Not-so-wild cats do the same things even though they’re safe wherever they decide to close their eyes. So, this behavior seems to be instinctual.

Last but not least, there’s a chance your cat might be sleeping on your chest because of the way she’s reminiscing her past. For the most part, kittens are a part of a litter for the first couple of weeks (or even months) after they’re born.

Kittens sleep piled on top of each other (or even on top of their mother) and sometimes they continue doing the same thing long after they’re grown.

4. She’s creating a mother-daughter bonding moment

Cats have a reputation for being standoffish and detached (for no freakin’ reason!). Chances are, you’ve heard one of your friends say something along the lines of “Cats never show whether they like you or not!” or “How can you like cats when they’re so… cold?!” on more than one occasion.

While cats won’t wag their tails the moment they see you, they have their ways of showing they care. And, they certainly have their ways of bonding with you (which seems to be the reason why your cat sleeps on your chest).

As a matter of fact, such behavior seems to be common among other cats. We stumbled upon the term “pillowing” while doing our research. Turns out pillowing’s what we described when talking about how cats used to sleep on one another when they were kittens.

The term comes from the fact that cats enjoy using each other as pillows (duh!). You should appreciate the fact that your fluffer considers you one of the cats (or, one of the pillows, at least).

5. She feels your heartbeat – and she loves the rhythm

Here’s another behavior that stemmed from your fluffy friend sleeping on other kittens when she was younger! When she’s sleeping on your chest, she can feel your heartbeat and the rhythmic sounds help her sleep better.

Of course, when she was a kitten, she did the same thing with her mother and other kittens. Trust me, cats appreciate that physical proximity as much as you do.

They absolutely adore snuggling on top of your chest, lounging on your lap, and resting on top of your hand while you’re trying to write something on your laptop.

Sure, they’re fans of the warmth you’re emitting. But, they also love the sounds they can hear coming off of your body.

Whether that’s your heartbeat, the rhythm of your breathing, or your stomach producing demonic sounds because you haven’t eaten anything for the past couple of hours – your fluffer can find a sense of comfort, safety, and security while listening to you.

How can anyone for a second think that cats aren’t sensitive?!

6. She’s comfortable right there and then

Cats are big on comfort. Of course, they always try to find the snuggest of places to lounge, and they don’t shy away from spending the rest of the day right there. And, there are times when your chest seems to be the right amount of “snug” they’ve been looking for.

But, how can you know for sure whether that’s the reason why she’s sleeping on you? Observe everything she’s doing beforehand – whether she’s slowly blinking at you, making biscuits on top of your blanket, or flopping on top of your thighs.

Trust me, these are telltale signs that she’s as comfortable as she can be while watching that documentary on Jeffrey Dahmer with you.

Oh and, we can’t overlook the fact that cats sometimes have entire conversations with you before they go to sleep. Cats do that because they’re happy and they want to communicate the way they’re feeling. So, your cat might be meowing, chirruping, and purring before she flops on your chest and falls asleep.

7. She’s attracted to your scent

Though that might seem strange, cats become more comfortable and secure when they’re surrounded by the scent of something familiar. Whether that’s your T-shirt, her favorite toy, or even your boyfriend’s smelly socks – your little munchkin might be tempted to snuggle right next to them.

Therefore, there’s a chance your cat might be sleeping on your chest because she’s attracted to your scent. Sure, she could settle somewhere near you where she would have the comfort of the bed and the reassurance of the scent.

But, napping on your chest gives her everything we’ve discussed beforehand. Warming up, bonding, listening to your heartbeat, and more.

And, don’t forget to nurture her obsession with comforting scents even when she’s not sleeping. As a matter of fact, don’t shy away from leaving your bathrobe on her bed when you leave for work or letting her play with your favorite hoodie when you’re preparing to travel for the holidays.

8. She’s showing you affection

“Is it possible that my cat sleeps on my chest because she’s trying to tell me she loves me? Aww, that’s actually adorable!”

Cats communicate with strange sounds, body language, and other seemingly odd behaviors you wouldn’t necessarily associate with affection. That being the case, we shouldn’t be surprised when our furry friends start sleeping close to us (or on us) to show how much they care.

Quite on the contrary, that makes more sense than some of the other things cats do when they’re trying to communicate. They try to tell us they’re not standoffish and detached as much as some (catless) humans would like to argue.

Or, would you prefer that she brings you cockroaches and dead birds aplenty as a token of her appreciation? Or that she meows at 3 a.m. to make sure you know “You’re the best mommy ever!”?

Of course, you need to figure out whether you’re fine with her ditching her bed and sleeping on your chest every single night. Some pet parents might not think letting your fluffer sleep with you sounds like a good thing. But, there’s no accounting for taste, right?

9. She’s stressed out

“What does she have to be stressed about? She has everything she needs and she doesn’t even have to move a finger (or a paw)?!“

Honestly, there’s no way of knowing how many pet parents think that way. However, we’re here to open your eyes and let you know that cats do get stressed out.

Some cats are more sensitive than others. And, they might be affected by the slightest of changes when we’re talking about the daily routine they have. For example, your fluffy friend might get anxious when you bring another pet home or when you have a bunch of people over.

Therefore, she might start seeking reassurance, doing things she doesn’t normally do, and trying to find solace on top of your chest. There’s nothing wrong with that. But, you might want to consult with your veterinarian and try to work out what could be causing her anxiety.

10. She can sense you need a cuddle

That’s right, she knows when you’re sad and she’s not about to let you cry on your own! We can’t be 100% sure whether cats sense our sadness. But, we can agree that they behave a certain way when they notice we’re crying or moping around.

Throw a glance at your cat when you’re feeling down and you might be surprised when she comes over and settles on your chest.

Of course, cats don’t (and probably can’t) understand our emotions. But, they’re aware of what’s going on around them. And, they take cues from what you look like, what you smell like, and what the tone of your voice sounds like.

So, when you’re balling your eyes out, she might notice you’re not acting the same way you always do and connect the dots. She simply wants to offer her support the best way she knows how… By sleeping on top of your chest and purring you to sleep.

They have addicting purrsonalities and make for great gym partners because they’re physically active. But, they’re not aggressive. As a matter of fact, they’re not more aggressive than any other breed that loves to play pranks on humans and cause trouble as a form of entertainment.

And, while they do have those moments when they’re play-fighting, they’re not an aggressive breed.

Of course, none of the breeds are necessarily aggressive – problems with behavior appear due to a bunch of factors. But, genetic markers aren’t typically the ones that stand out.

More often than not, our four-legged friends act out because they’re stressed out or overwhelmed. Perhaps they haven’t even been taught how to behave when dealing with different situations.

For example, your Bengal might start hissing and growling when your friends come over because she hasn’t been properly socialized growing up. She’s not acting up because she’s a Bengal – she’s acting up because she’s uncomfortable and doesn’t know better.

Sure, haters and naysayers might argue how “multicolored cats are more aggressive than monotone-colored ones” because they read one article on the topic. But, pretty much everyone’s experience with Bengal cats suggests that they are the sweethearts of the feline world (with a bad reputation).

Alas, worry not about your future Bengal kittens. We’re bringing you a rundown on everything you need to know about the behavior of these Liliputian leopards and we’re starting with a bang.

Why do Bengal cats have a reputation for being aggressive?

Oh, you wouldn’t believe the tales that have been circling for years! Turns out that when you’re physically active, attitude-ridden, and a little mean, everyone paints you to be the villain of the feline world! And, trust me, Bengal cats don’t deserve the negative “word on the street” stories they get.

Sure, Bengals look like the embodiment of wilderness when they’re roaming around your backyard. And they have those rosette markings to thank for that. The fact that they came to be as a cross between an Asian leopard cat and a domestic cat doesn’t help the case.

However, they’re far from wild considering how affectionate, appreciative, and absolutely loyal they are. Truth be told, they abandoned their wild natures a long time ago.

Bengal cats appeared as early as the 1800s but didn’t get accepted as a breed until the mid-20th century. And, we can’t forget about the fact that Bengal cats go through a meticulous process of classification.

Actually, they’re classified by how many generations have passed from the original (wild) parent. An Asian leopard kitten would be an F1. But, an accepted Bengal kitten would have to be at least an F4. On the other hand, an F6 would be considered the perfect level of domesticated.

Why are we focusing on the origins of Bengal cats as much as we are, you might ask? Because one of the most prominent reasons why pet parents consider Bengals aggressive seems to be the fact that they’re (in a way) connected to wild cats. And, we don’t think of wild cats as proper, non-aggressive pets.

What’s the truth behind those rumors: Are Bengal cats aggressive?

But, Bengal cats are not aggressive. Of course, they can become aggressive depending on the environment in which they grow up. As well as the prowess a pet parent possesses to properly care for such a high-maintenance breed.

Here’s the reality. Bengal cats wouldn’t be as popular as they are have they gone around the world attacking humans, animals, and anything that dares look at them. What made them sought-after seems to be the fact that they look like leopards but behave like kittens. A match made in heaven, if you ask me.

Bengals cats are soft and sweet. These beautiful beasts love being at the center of attention and entertaining everyone around them.

They enjoy hanging out with humans which makes them perfect for families with lots of members. And yes, they’re great with little humans as much as they’re great with big ones.

And, we can’t forget about the fact that Bengals are one of the most intelligent breeds out there. They’re “dogs of the feline world.” They can walk on a leash, play fetch, and learn how to do a bunch of other tricks. As it happens, the trick does seem to be in the way you train them.

Therefore, Bengal cats are not more or less aggressive than other breeds. Of course, they become aggressive when pet parents don’t take proper care of them, don’t teach them how to react and behave, and don’t choose the right environment for them. Here’s what we’ve gathered.

1. Aggressive when they’re afraid

Now, cats (regardless of the breed) have that fight-or-flight response ready to go whenever they notice a sense of danger. Some cats are more prone to fighting when they feel threatened. However, that doesn’t necessarily stem from which breed they belong to – but rather what temperament they possess.

Bengal cats aren’t aggressive, but they might attack you when they feel as though you’re putting than in harm’s way. Whether that’s because you’re annoying them with your behavior or because you’re touching them without consent, they might resort to scratching or biting you to protect themselves.

2. Aggressive when they’re protecting their territory

“Are Bengal cats aggressive simply because they’re trying to protect their territory? Could that be the reason?”

Cats are very, very territorial (that seems to be a part of their nature). Some pet parents might argue that Bengal cats are more territorial than other breeds. But, we don’t have the evidence to support them which means we don’t feel comfortable throwing such “gossip” around.

Nonetheless, that’s not to say that most cats don’t become aggressive when they’re protecting their territory. Cats have many ways of marking what they consider their own – urinating on your furniture, pawing at the floor, and rubbing their teeth on you to claim you as one of their own.

And, when they catch a glimpse of another cat trying to take your affection, they might get ready to attack to show dominance. Nobody’s messing with you when you have a Bengal on your sleeve!

3. Aggressive when they’re protecting their kittens

Oh, those maternal instincts are super strong when we’re talking about a cat protecting her kittens! Bengal cats don’t shy away from biting the hand of anyone who dares touch her kittens without asking for consent.

Cats don’t appreciate when humans cross the line with their offspring. They expect you to wait for them to be comfortable enough to show you their kittens on their own. And, while we’re on the topic, don’t let your friends or family come close to Bengal kittens unless you want them to lose a finger or two.

Bengal cats aren’t aggressive. But, they become aggressive when they think they need to protect themselves, their territory, or their offspring. That’s something you should keep in mind when planning on getting a Bengal cat or when you’re trying to figure out how to discipline your Bengal cat.

Are Bengal cats aggressive around other animals?

Bengal cats are not aggressive around other animals! Or, they’re at least not more aggressive than other breeds. As we already mentioned, a cat’s behavior doesn’t necessarily depend on the breed. Her behavior depends on the environment, the circumstances, and a bunch of other factors.

Granted that your Bengal cat does become hostile around other animals, she might need to re-learn certain patterns of behavior.

More times than not, cats become belligerent when they’re protecting something that belongs to them. And, that might even be a response to trauma they went through when they were younger.

But, Bengal cats are predators and you shouldn’t trust them around smaller animals. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, birds, and fish should be off-limits to your little leopard. Other than that, feel free to schedule playdates with other cats (or even dogs).

Reasons why a Bengal cat might attack you (other than aggression)

1. She doesn’t know better

When you’re wondering whether Bengal cats are aggressive, your mind doesn’t necessarily go straight to blaming someone else for how they’ve treated you.

But, that might not be the right approach considering the fact that Bengal cats have exceptional memory and learn faster than other breeds. This means they might learn to do something wrong, too.

For example, when your Bengal cat gets annoyed and aggressive, your response might be to cuddle her and give her treats to make her feel better.

However, she might take that as a green light to continue behaving that way. She learns she’s going to get a treat when she does that. Change the way you teach her and she might not have to bite your fingers off to get what she wants.

2. She’s bored

Bengal cats need a lot of mental stimulation, physical activity, and affection! When we say that Bengal cats are high-maintenance, that’s exactly what we’re talking about.

We can’t stress enough how much these leopard lookalikes hate boredom – they can’t spend a moment not knowing what to do with themselves.

And, though that might sound strange, they can become aggressive when they feel like they’re not getting what they need. Come on, how many times have you been angry with the world because you didn’t have anywhere to go on a Friday night?!

Therefore, Bengal cats need entertainment, toys, and scratching posts galore to stop themselves from trashing your apartment.

3. She’s stressed out

Bengal cats might not be aggressive because they’re “kind of wild.“ But they can be aggressive because they’re stressed out, overwhelmed, and overstimulated.

Whether you’re having a party at your place or you’re babysitting a bunch of your neighbor’s cats, your Bengal might not be enjoying herself as much as you thought.

When you notice she’s not feeling her best around other people or other animals, you might want to move her to a different room. When she starts behaving aggressively toward everyone, don’t wait for her to lose her mind completely before you do something.

Create a distraction for her, provide her with a calming environment, and don’t touch her under any circumstances. She might need an hour or two before she feels better.

4. She’s experiencing health problems

That’s right, cats can become aggressive when they’re dealing with health problems, discomfort, and pain. Surprisingly, many would argue that these three factors are the number one reason for aggression when we’re talking about Bengal cats, too.

So, some of the most common health problems a Bengal cat might deal with seem to be neurological diseases, degenerative joint disease, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, and dental disease. Make sure to keep an eye out for symptoms of these diseases and contact your vet the moment you notice something’s wrong.

Other than that, make sure you’re providing your cat with proper nutrition, physical activity, and an environment that stimulates her enough to have everything she needs for a happy and healthy life. A healthy Bengal cat shouldn’t become an aggressive Bengal cat, as they say (or something of the sort).

5. She’s dealing with past trauma

Now, there are occurrences when you don’t know what your cat’s history looks like.

Sure, you did your research and you found out that Bengal cats came to be as a cross between an Asian leopard and a domesticated cat. You learned that the Cat Fanciers’ Association didn’t recognize Bengal cats for a long time.

But, none of that can help you (that much) when you’re wondering whether Bengal cats are aggressive. Actually, the only history that can help you seems to be anything that happened while your cat was growing up.

Whether she was on the streets. Whether she lived in an abusive household. And, whether she experienced certain events that might have shaped the way she responds today.

Therefore, on the off chance that you didn’t get your Bengal cat while she was a kitten, you might want to consult with an animal behaviorist. A professional should be able to help you understand and deal with your cat’s aggression in the best way possible.

Choosing a name for the newest member of your feline family can be tough. On one hand, you’re looking for a name that’s going to reflect your fluffer’s purrsonality to a tee.

On the other, you’re hoping to name her something that’s going to leave a mark on the world… The same way Taylor Swift changed the trend of naming your cat after famous people by naming her Scottish fold none other than Olivia Benson.

Now, we’re not saying you should follow the steps of the biggest pop star the world has ever seen (unless you want to!) But, why not take a page out of her book and name your cat after something or someone that’s made a mark on your life?

Whether that’s a TV character that’s motivated you to change your life. Whether that’s a place that reminds you of your family. When you decide on a name for your fluffer, you have to be ready to hear and utter that name a hundred times a day.

Therefore, we’re bringing you a bunch of cat names based on Mexican culture – whether that’s the language, the people, or even the cuisine. Buckle up because you’re about to remember why you became smitten with Mexico from the get-go.

Mexican cat names for felines that adore a little “siesta” during the day

When you come home with a bundle of fluff, there’s nothing you want more than to spend the rest of the day taking a “siesta” with her.

We know that most cats adore napping, snuggling on your chest, and purring the day away as you watch over them. While you can take some time off, we’re suggesting you get to know your fluffer better before you name her.

Maybe you’re thinking of Mexican cat names because you want something that reminds you of your family. Perhaps you’re fascinated by Mexican culture and you’re looking to name your cat something that’s different and unique. Whatever the case might be, we’re here to help.

1. For chicos

1. Alejandro

2. Alfonso

3. Allegro

4. Alonso

5. Alonzo

6. Amado

7. Amante

8. Andrés

9. Ángel

10. Antonio

11. Armand

12. Armando

13. Arturo

14. Bautista

15. Belen

16. Bernardo

17. Bueno

18. Caliente

19. Carlito

20. Carlos

21. Cazador

22. Cerveza

23. Chico

24. Cielo

25. Consuelo

26. Cortez

27. Corto

28. Cruz

29. Dante

30. Dario

31. Diego

32. Domingo

33. Donato

34. Dulce

35. Eduardo

36. Emilio

37. Emmanuel

38. Enrique

39. Esteban

40. Federico

41. Feliz

42. Fernando

43. Fuerte

44. Gabriel

45. Galeno

46. Gato

47. Geraldo

48. Gerardo

49. Gitano

50. Gonzalo

51. Gordo

52. Guillermo

53. Héctor

54. Hermoso

55. Javier

56. Jesús

57. Jorge

58. Jose

59. Joven

60. Juan

61. Julián

62. Julio

63. Leon

64. Leonardo

65. Leonor

66. Lindo

67. Lión

68. Lisandro

69. Lobo

70. Loco

71. Lorenzo

72. Luis

73. Lupe

74. Luz

75. Manco

76. Manuel

77. Marco

78. Mario

79. Marques

80. Matías

81. Mauricio

82. Maximiliano

83. Miguel

84. Nacho

85. Navarro

86. Niño

87. Noche

88. Orlando

89. Oro

90. Pablo

91. Paco

92. Pancho

93. Paulo

94. Pedro

95. Pequeño

96. Rafael

97. Roberto

98. Sanchez

99. Santo

100. Socorro

101. Sombre

102. Suave

103. Tequila

104. Tigre

105. Zorro

2. For chicas

106. Abigail

107. Abril

108. Adriana

109. Aitana

110. Alana

111. Alba

112. Alejandra

113. Alicia

114. Alma

115. Amelia

116. Ana

117. Antonella

118. Blanca

119. Candela

120. Carlota

121. Celeste

122. Chloe

123. Clara

124. Claudia

125. Daniela

126. Delfina

127. Elena

128. Elisa

129. Fernanda

130. Gabriela

131. Gala

132. Guadalupe

133. Ines

134. Irene

135. Jimena

136. Josefina

137. Julia

138. Julieta

139. Laia

140. Lara

141. Lia

142. Lucía

143. Luciana

144. Maria

145. Mariana

146. Marta

147. Martina

148. Miranda

149. Natalia

150. Noa

151. Paula

152. Paulina

153. Regina

154. Renata

155. Roma

156. Romina

157. Samantha

158. Sara

159. Sofía

160. Triana

161. Valeria

162. Vega

163. Vera

164. Ximena

165. Zoe

Cat names taken from famous Mexicans

We can’t seem to keep Taylor’s name out of our mouths, but why wouldn’t we want to name our fluffers based on something or someone we love? Now, we’re not suggesting Olivia Benson as your top pick because she’s clearly not Mexican.

But, we’re suggesting one of these incredibly intelligent, successful, and talented people. What are you waiting for, then? Throw a glance at these cat names (taken from famous Mexicans), refresh your “memoria,” and go for one that describes your mouser the best.

1. For a purrince

166. Hernán Cortes – a Spanish conquistador who conquered native populations in the Caribbean

167. José Salomé Pina – a Mexican painter

168. Miguel Hidalgo – a respected parish priest and valued member of his community that kicked off a revolution in Spanish colonial Mexico

169. Antonio López de Santa Anna – a Mexican soldier and politician that was a part of the army during Mexico’s War of Independence

170. Benito Juarez – a full-blooded Mexican Indian, legendary statesman, and former president of Mexico

171. José José – a singer and actor

172. Porfirio Diaz – a war hero, a politician, and a former president of Mexico

173. Pancho Villa – a bandit, warlord, and one of the main protagonists of the Mexican Revolution

174. Guillermo del Toro – an accomplished Mexican film director

175. Gael García Bernal – one of Mexico’s most successful actors

176. Pedro Infante – one of Mexico’s best-recognized crooners

177. Jorge Negrete – a Mexican crooner

178. Javier Solís – a Mexican Crooner

179. Vicente Fox – the first PAN (National Action Party) president of Mexico in a long line of PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party) presidents

180. Carlos Santana – a Mexican rock singer

181. Diego Rivera – an artist who formed part of the Mexican muralism movement

182. Chicharito – a famous soccer player

183. Carlos Slim – the most prominent Mexican businessman (once the wealthiest man in the world)

184. Octavio Paz – a poet, diplomat, author, and Nobel prize winner

185. Oscar de la Hoya – a professional boxer

2. For a purrincess

186. María Félix – one of Mexican cinema’s most important actresses during the Golden Age

187. Frida Kahlo – an artist, a feminist, and a famous monobrow queen

188. Salma Hayek – an actress and a producer

189. Julieta Venegas – a singer and songwriter

190. Thalía – a singer and songwriter

191. Lucero – a singer

192. Veronica Falcón – an actress

193. Selena Quintanilla-Pérez – a singer and songwriter

194. Mimi Fariña – a singer with Mexican heritage

195. Selena Gomez – a singer with Mexican heritage

196. Demi Lovato – a half-Mexican singer and songwriter

197. María Fernanda Blázquez Gil – a singer, songwriter, designer, dancer, record producer, director, and actress, otherwise known as Fey

198. Diana Reyes – a singer

199. Jenni Rivera – a Mexican-American singer

200. Becky G – a Mexican-American rapper and singer

201. Lola Beltran – one of the most acclaimed singers in Mexcian history

202. Paulina Rubio – a Mexican singer and songwriter

203. María Izquierdo – one of Mexico’s most important female painters

204. Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz – one of the first and foremost feminists of colonial Mexico

205. Rosario Castellanos – one of Mexico’s most important poets of the 20th century

206. María del Pilar Roldán Tapia – the first Mexican woman to win an Olympic medal

207. Rosario Ibarra de Piedra – a senator, former presidential candidate, and a Mexican politician

208. Paola Longoria – one of the best female racquetball players in the world

209. Tessy María López Goerne – the director of nanotechnology and nanomedicine laboratories at Mexico’s Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana

Cat names based on delicious Mexican dishes

Who wouldn’t want to name a cat after something crunchy on the outside, but soft and gooey on the inside!?

That’s right, we’re talking about Taquitos – and, we’re obsessed with the thought of naming one of our kittens after a Mexican dish. There’s hardly anyone that doesn’t adore Mexican food which means our kitten would be loved and appreciated left and right.

Don’t be shy, take a look at our checklist of Mexican cat names based on some of the mouth-watering, paw-licking dishes we know and admire.

1. For males

210. Romeritos

211. Chilaquiles

212. Pozole

213. Taco

214. Taquito

215. Burrito

216. Tostada

217. Yuca

218. Tequila

219. Tamale

220. Taco

221. Sangrita

222. Salsa

223. Panucho

224. Paloma

225. Negra

226. Nacho

227. Margarita

228. Jicama

229. Guacamole

230. Gordito

231. Fresca

232. Enchilada

233. Empanada

234. Dos Equis

235. Corona

236. Chilaquiles

237. Chalupa

238. Dorito

239. Chicharrón

240. Albóndigas

241. Barbacoa

242. Alfajor

243. Papadzules

244. Cabrito

245. Nopalito

246. Migas

247. Moloto

248. Chilorio

249. Polvorón

250. Bistek

251. Moronga

252. Panucho

253. Tripas

254. Menudo

255. Pambazo

256. Salbut

257. Atole

258. Sope

259. Pozole

260. Escamol

261. Aporreadillo

262. Mixiote

263. Totopo

264. Churro

265. Bolillo

266. Chapulines

267. Tostilocos

268. Entomatada

269. Venison

270. Chorizo

271. Cocido

272. Coyotas

273. Puntas

274. Jocoque

275. Escamoll

276. Mollote

277. Huarache

278. Picadillo

2. For females

279. Yorique

280. Yaca

281. Tostada

282. Tortilla 

283. Torta    

284. Tlayuda

285. Tamale 

286. Sopaipilla            

287. Salsa     

288. Quesadilla          

289. Nicuatole           

290. Milanesa             

291. Memelas            

292. Machaca            

293. Jumiles 

294. Gringas

295. Gordita

296. Fritada 

297. Fajita    

298. Empanada          

299. Concha

300. Cocada

301. Chimichanga      

302. Chilaquiles          

303. Chapulines         

304. Chamoy              

305. Chalupa              

306. Chahuis

307. Cerveza

308. Cemita 

309. Cecina  

310. Cassava

311. Carnitas              

312. Cajeta  

313. Zocata

314. Birria    

315. Aguachile  

316. Avocado

317. Anafre  

318. Cacao      

319. Cebiche

320. Damiana

321. Escabeche

322. Epazote

323. Escamole

324. Fritura

325. Guanábana

326. Guava

327. Gusanos de maguey

328. Habanero

329. Hechizo

330. Huitlacoche

331. Jícama

332. Jitomate

333. Jumil

334. Kamata

335. Kery

336. Lima

337. Longaniza

338. Machaca

339. Mamey

340. Metate

341. Memela

342. Mole

343. Nogada

344. Olote

345. Panucho

346. Pipián

347. Piña

348. Pitaya

349. Raspada

350. Romerito

351. Boracha

352. Sope

353. Tejuino

354. Tuna

355. Uliche

356. Vainilla

357. Veracruzana

1. Stress Reduction

Cats have a remarkable ability to reduce stress levels. Their gentle purring vibrations create a calming effect, which can lower anxiety and promote relaxation. Having a cat purring beside you can serve as a natural stress-relief session.

Just spending time petting your cat can trigger the release of calming chemicals in your body, making you feel more at ease.

This interaction not only soothes your mind but also helps your cat build trust and affection towards you. The simple act of petting a cat can transform a stressful day into a peaceful one.

2. Heart Health

Owning a cat can contribute to a healthier heart. Studies have shown that cat owners are at a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes. The companionship of a cat offers emotional support that can lead to reduced blood pressure.

The affectionate bond between you and your cat encourages a sense of calm, potentially lowering cardiovascular stress.

This heartwarming relationship can act as a buffer against heart disease, showcasing how your feline friend plays a part in maintaining your heart health.

3. Allergy Prevention

Introducing a cat into your home might help in preventing allergies, especially in children. Early exposure to pet allergens can build immunity, reducing the likelihood of developing respiratory issues.

Growing up with a cat might make children less likely to suffer from asthma and allergic reactions.

This natural exposure helps to strengthen the immune system, offering a healthier environment for your family. Cats, thus, play a surprising role in fortifying your household’s health.

4. Increased Physical Activity

Cats require play and interaction, which can inadvertently boost your physical activity. Engaging in playful activities with your cat, such as using a feather toy, can encourage movement and exercise.

Even simple tasks like cleaning the litter box or feeding stimulate physical exertion.

These interactions not only keep your cat entertained but also help you maintain an active lifestyle. By playing with your cat, you’re enhancing both your and your pet’s physical well-being.

5. Improved Sleep

Sleeping with a cat can lead to improved sleep quality. Many cat owners find comfort in their pet’s presence, leading to a sense of security and relaxation that aids restful sleep.

The rhythmic breathing of a sleeping cat can be soothing, acting as a natural lullaby.

This companionship can reduce night-time anxiety, helping you drift into a deeper slumber. Sharing your bed with a cat might be the secret to more rejuvenating sleep cycles.

6. Enhanced Mood

Cats can significantly enhance your mood with their playful antics and affectionate behavior. Spending time with a cat releases serotonin, the happy hormone, elevating your mood naturally.

Their unconditional love and companionship can be a great comfort during lonely times.

Cats have a knack for sensing your emotions, often providing comfort when you need it most. This emotional connection can lead to a happier, more content life.

7. Social Connection

Cats can be social facilitators, fostering connections with others. Having a cat can spark conversations and connections with fellow cat lovers, breaking the ice in social situations.

Cats often become a focal point during gatherings, encouraging interactions among guests.

This social dynamic can lead to stronger friendships and a robust support network. Your cat, thus, becomes a catalyst for building meaningful relationships.

8. Mental Stimulation

Cats provide mental stimulation, which can be beneficial for your cognitive health. Observing their curious nature and problem-solving skills can enhance your own cognitive function.

Interacting with your cat through games and puzzles keeps your mind sharp and engaged.

This back-and-forth play improves mental agility, making daily interactions with your cat a brain-boosting experience. Cats are companions that continually challenge and enhance your mental faculties.

9. Pain Relief

Cats have been known to offer pain relief through their presence. The act of petting a cat can release endorphins, which are natural painkillers, helping alleviate discomfort.

Their warm bodies and purring can provide soothing relief from physical aches.

This comforting effect can be particularly beneficial for those suffering from chronic pain, making cats more than just companions—they’re natural healers.

10. Mindfulness and Relaxation

Cats encourage mindfulness and relaxation. Watching a cat go about its daily routine can teach you to appreciate the present moment, fostering a sense of mindfulness.

Their calm demeanor promotes relaxation, encouraging you to slow down and breathe.

This tranquil interaction can enhance your overall mental well-being, making your cat a key player in your journey to mindfulness and relaxation.

We delve into the mesmerizing world of Snowshoe cat colors, showcasing 11 beautiful variations. Each color has its own unique charm and can influence the personality and allure of the Snowshoe cat. Whether you are a breeder, a cat lover, or just curious, this guide will enlighten you on these magnificent creatures.

1. Seal Point

Seal Point Snowshoe cats are one of the most striking color variations. Their bodies are typically cream or fawn, providing a perfect canvas for the dark, rich brown ‘points’ that adorn their ears, face, paws, and tail.

These points create a dramatic contrast, highlighting the cat’s sleek form and expressive blue eyes. Often, the seal points appear to have a gradience, starting darker at the extremities and fading slightly towards the body.

This captivating color pattern appeals to cat enthusiasts for its classic elegance and timeless beauty. Seal Point Snowshoes are often sought after for shows and breeding.

2. Blue Point

Offering a unique take on the classic point color pattern, this variation features soft slate-grey points that seamlessly merge with a lighter body color. Their ethereal beauty is further enhanced by vivid blue eyes, creating a striking contrast with their grey markings.

Beloved for their calming and serene temperament, these cats exude gentle playfulness that adds to their charm. The icy elegance of this color variation enhances the Snowshoe’s appeal, making them a popular choice among cat enthusiasts who value subtle and refined beauty.

3. Chocolate Point

With warm milk chocolate points that beautifully contrast a light cream body, this color variation offers a softer alternative to the darker seal points. The combination exudes a cozy warmth and sweetness, reminiscent of the treat it is named after.

The gentle contrast highlights the cat’s elegance without being overpowering, creating a balanced and inviting appearance. Known for their affectionate and loving nature, these cats have personalities as delightful as their coloring.

Particularly adored by families, they make gentle and friendly companions, blending striking looks with a warm-hearted demeanor.

4. Lilac Point

Lilac Point Snowshoe cats embody a delicate and rare beauty. Their points are a unique frosty grey-pink, creating an ethereal and fairy-tale-like look.

The body remains a pristine white, providing a stunning backdrop that enhances the delicate hue of the points. Lilac Points are known for their friendly and social nature, often enjoying human companionship.

Their peaceful demeanor complements their soft coloring, making them ideal pets for those seeking a gentle and loving cat. This charming color is a favorite among those who appreciate subtle elegance and rarity.

5. Red Point

Fiery and captivating, this color variation features vibrant red-orange points that stand out beautifully against a creamy body. The combination radiates warmth and vitality, perfectly complementing the spirited personality these cats often display.

Known for their adventurous and curious nature, they bring an element of excitement and energy to any household. Their striking coloration not only enhances their appearance but also mirrors their lively and engaging demeanor.

Ideal for those who love an active and playful companion, these cats make a dynamic addition to any home.

6. Flame Point

This variation exudes a gentle and harmonious elegance. The subtlety of the coloration creates an understated beauty, appealing to those who favor a more refined and delicate look.

Perfectly complementing their appearance, these cats are known for their laid-back and easy-going temperament. Their serene nature makes them ideal companions for quiet, tranquil households.

The gentle tones of their coat mirror their calming disposition, offering a peaceful and soothing presence in any home.

7. Tortie Point

Tortie Point Snowshoe cats are a mosaic of colors, combining black, red, and cream in their points. This unique pattern creates a patchwork effect, each cat displaying a one-of-a-kind design.

Their bodies are usually lighter, allowing the vibrant tortie points to take center stage. These cats are often described as vibrant and energetic, reflecting the dynamic mix of colors they wear.

Tortie Points are perfect for those who appreciate individuality and a bit of unpredictability in their pets. Their striking appearance is matched by a lively and engaging personality.

8. Lynx Point

Bringing a hint of the wild to the domestic cat world, this variation features distinctive tabby-like striping on the points, adding an exotic touch to traditional patterns. The stripes, typically visible on the face and legs, create a striking contrast against their smooth, solid-colored bodies.

Known for their playful and intelligent personalities, these cats have an inquisitive nature that keeps their owners engaged and entertained. Their lively curiosity blends beautifully with their friendly and affectionate demeanor.

This unique coloration is perfect for those who want a feline companion with a touch of the wild, paired with the Snowshoe’s signature charm and warmth.

9. Cinnamon Point

Warm and inviting, this variation features rich, reddish-brown points that evoke the cozy essence of the spice it’s named after. The subtle yet striking contrast between the cinnamon points and the creamy body creates a visually pleasing and comforting appearance.

Known for their sweet and affectionate nature, these cats are ideal companions for both families and individuals seeking a loving and gentle pet. Their unique blend of charm and elegance makes them particularly appealing to those who value warmth and softness in a feline friend.

With their endearing personality and distinctive coloration, they effortlessly win the hearts of cat enthusiasts everywhere.

10. Fawn Point

Fawn Point Snowshoe cats exude a subtle and gentle beauty. Their points are a delicate light beige, which blend seamlessly into their white bodies.

This color variation offers a soft and understated elegance, perfect for those who appreciate a refined and classic look.

Fawn Points are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their owners. Their calming presence and serene appearance make them ideal companions for those seeking a peaceful and loving pet. Their unique coloring adds a touch of sophistication to any household.

11. Caramel Point

As sweet as their name implies, this variation showcases warm, muted caramel points that create a subtle yet striking contrast against their white bodies. The delicate coloration offers a soft and refined beauty, appealing to those who prefer understated elegance.

Known for their affectionate and friendly personalities, these cats make wonderful companions for both families and individuals. Their warm tones mirror their gentle and loving nature, bringing a comforting presence to any home.

Perfect for those seeking a feline with both charm and grace, this color variation is a delightful addition to any cat-loving household.