{"id":63242,"date":"2025-01-21T10:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-21T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/?p=63242"},"modified":"2025-01-21T07:40:36","modified_gmt":"2025-01-21T12:40:36","slug":"why-do-cats-bring-gifts-to-humans","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/why-do-cats-bring-gifts-to-humans\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Surprising Reasons Cats Bring Gifts to Humans Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Cats are known for their mysterious behavior, often leaving their owners puzzled by unexpected &ldquo;gifts.&rdquo; These offerings can range from a beloved toy to, more surprisingly, a small creature. While these actions may seem strange or unsettling, they are deeply tied to a cat&rsquo;s natural instincts and communication style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At their core, cats are hunters, and bringing &ldquo;presents&rdquo; to their owners is an instinctive behavior. In the wild, they would share their catch with their family or pack. This instinct to offer a gift is a sign of affection and trust, though it may be misunderstood by humans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding why cats bring these gifts can shed light on their unique ways of showing love and connection. It&rsquo;s not just about feeding or satisfying a hunger&mdash;it&rsquo;s a complex behavior that speaks to a cat&rsquo;s deep-rooted instincts and its bond with its human companions. By exploring the reasons behind these gestures, a clearer picture of your cat&rsquo;s world and affection can be formed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Instinctual Hunting Behavior<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20300%20300'%3E%3Crect%20width='300'%20height='300'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" loading=\"eager\" data-src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-1.jpeg\" class=\"eager-load\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/citykittiesdc\/p\/C-llGohMAOH\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; citykittiesdc<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cats have an instinct to hunt, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors. Your cat might present you with a &ldquo;gift&rdquo; as part of this instinctual behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Hunting is a way for cats to practice their skills, even if they are well-fed at home. Bringing you a catch is an expression of their hunting prowess and success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While it may seem odd, it&rsquo;s a sign that your cat is embracing its natural instincts. Understanding this behavior can foster a deeper appreciation of your cat&rsquo;s natural traits and enrich your bond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Sharing Their Success<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sharing-Their-Success.jpeg\" alt=\"Sharing Their Success\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sharing-Their-Success.jpeg\" alt=\"Sharing Their Success\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.victorpest.com\/articles\/top-cat-breeds-for-catching-mice\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Victor<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>When a cat brings you a gift, it&rsquo;s often an expression of pride in their achievement. They want to share their success with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This behavior is similar to how a cat might share its catch with its kittens in the wild. By offering you a gift, your cat is extending its sense of pride and accomplishment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s a heartwarming gesture that underscores the bond you share. Appreciating this behavior can foster a stronger connection between you and your feline companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Teaching You to Hunt<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-2.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.victorpest.com\/articles\/what-to-do-when-your-cat-brings-you-a-gift\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Victor<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In their world, cats are superb hunters. By bringing you gifts, they might be trying to teach you how to hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the wild, mother cats bring prey to their kittens as part of their learning process. Your cat might see you as someone who needs to learn these skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While you might not need these lessons, it&rsquo;s a playful and affectionate gesture. Understanding this behavior can help you appreciate your cat&rsquo;s way of including you in its world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Bonding and Social Connection<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bonding-and-Social-Connection.jpeg\" alt=\"Bonding and Social Connection\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bonding-and-Social-Connection.jpeg\" alt=\"Bonding and Social Connection\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pethelpful.com\/cats\/Caging-Cats-When-and-Why-its-Sometimes-Necessary\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; PetHelpful<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Gift-giving is a way for cats to bond and strengthen social connections. When a cat brings you something, it&rsquo;s often a gesture of affection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This behavior is similar to how cats groom each other to strengthen their social bonds. By giving you a gift, your cat is expressing its affection and desire to be close.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing this gesture can deepen the emotional connection you share with your pet, enhancing your relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Mimicking Ancestral Behaviors<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-3.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-3.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mcgill.ca\/oss\/article\/general-science\/should-i-attach-bell-my-cats-collar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; McGill University<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cats often mimic the behaviors of their wild ancestors, including hunting and gift-giving. Bringing you a gift is part of this behavior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This action is an echo of their past, where sharing a catch was crucial for survival and social structure. Even domesticated cats retain these instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>By understanding this behavior, you can appreciate the rich heritage and instincts that shape your cat&rsquo;s actions. It&rsquo;s a testament to the complex nature of your feline friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Seeking Attention and Praise<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Seeking-Attention-and-Praise.jpeg\" alt=\"Seeking Attention and Praise\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Seeking-Attention-and-Praise.jpeg\" alt=\"Seeking Attention and Praise\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thesprucepets.com\/cat-hunting-gifts-553946\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; The Spruce Pets<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Unexpected gifts from your feline friend are signs of affection, deeply rooted in their hunting instincts. Understanding these gestures reveals their strong bond with humans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>They may associate gift-giving with receiving positive attention, just like when they perform a trick or play. Acknowledging this behavior reinforces their desire to interact with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It&rsquo;s an opportunity to engage with your cat and show appreciation for their efforts, strengthening your bond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Expressing Trust and Security<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-4.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-4.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zoetispetcare.com\/blog\/article\/clingy-cat\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Zoetis Petcare<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>In their desire to show comfort and trust, a cat may bring you a gift as a way of sharing something precious. It&rsquo;s their way of expressing they feel secure enough with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This behavior indicates that your home is a secure place where they can express themselves. It&rsquo;s a sign of their comfort and trust in you as a companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing this behavior can help you appreciate the level of trust your cat places in you, enhancing your relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Demonstrating Ownership<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Demonstrating-Ownership.jpeg\" alt=\"Demonstrating Ownership\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Demonstrating-Ownership.jpeg\" alt=\"Demonstrating Ownership\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.four-paws.org\/our-stories\/publications-guides\/cats-and-their-hunting-behaviour\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; FOUR PAWS International<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>As territorial creatures, cats may use gift-giving to assert ownership. By presenting you with a &ldquo;treasure,&rdquo; your cat could be marking you as an important part of its domain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This gesture is a way to assert its presence and connection within your home. It&rsquo;s an expression of belonging and attachment to its environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Understanding this behavior can help you see the complex social dynamics your cat navigates and its place in your life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Engaging in Play and Entertainment<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-5.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Why-Do-Cats-Bring-Gifts-to-Humans-10-Surprising-Reasons-Explained-5.jpeg\" alt=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" title=\"Why Do Cats Bring Gifts to Humans? 10 Surprising Reasons Explained\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.victorpest.com\/articles\/what-to-do-when-your-cat-brings-you-a-gift\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Victor<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cats often bring gifts as a way to initiate play and entertainment. They might view you as a partner in their playful endeavors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This behavior is a way to interact and stimulate both their and your environment. It&rsquo;s an invitation to engage in a shared activity that strengthens your bond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Embracing this playfulness can lead to enjoyable and interactive experiences with your feline friend, enriching your relationship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Showing Empathy and Care<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Showing-Empathy-and-Care.jpeg\" alt=\"Showing Empathy and Care\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Showing-Empathy-and-Care.jpeg\" alt=\"Showing Empathy and Care\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/showme.missouri.edu\/2021\/cats-may-help-increase-empathy-decrease-anxiety-for-kids-with-autism\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Show Me Mizzou &ndash; University of Missouri<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>With their natural empathy, cats may offer gifts as a way of showing care. Sensing your emotions, they respond with these thoughtful gestures to comfort and soothe you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This behavior is a way for them to show empathy, providing support in their unique way. It&rsquo;s an offer of companionship and understanding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Recognizing this behavior allows you to appreciate your cat&rsquo;s emotional intelligence and the comforting role they play in your life.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cats are known for their mysterious behavior, often leaving their owners puzzled by unexpected &ldquo;gifts.&rdquo; These offerings can range from a beloved toy to, more &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":63243,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"syndication_tool_enabled":true,"syndication_tool_title":"","syndication_tool_excerpt":"","syndication_tool_featured_image":0,"syndication_tool_publish_date":"","syndication_tool_schema_types":["gallery"],"syndication_tool_backlink_enable":false,"syndication_tool_ai_disclosure_enable":false,"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[85],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-63242","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-cat-behavior"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63242","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=63242"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63242\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":63831,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63242\/revisions\/63831"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/63243"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=63242"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=63242"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=63242"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}