• Thinkstock
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    For creatures that nap half the day, cats are complex beings. They constantly behave in ways we just don't understand -- until now! After some clever detective work, we were able to figure out the reasons behind cats' most bizarre behaviors. Read on and learn how to think like a feline.

  • PawNation
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    Why does my cat like having his cheeks rubbed?

  • Thinkstock
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    ANSWER:

    First, it feels good. A nice face massage from a loved one is always a treat for your feline. More importantly, cats have scent glands around this area. By rubbing against an item with their cheeks, kitties mark their territory and spread their scent. When you rub your cats cheeks, your hand takes on the familiar and comforting smell of your pets "colony scent." (University of Illinois)

  • PawNation
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    Why does my cat always want to play with my socks?

  • Flickr User: droetker0912
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    ANSWER:

    Cats crave your socks because they love you. Your sweaty, smelly socks have a high concentration of your familiar scent, which some felines find soothing. Additionally, felines could be trying to rid your socks of foreign odors from your day outside, by rubbing against them. Kitties also enjoy the salty taste. (Suite 101 Cats)

  • PawNation
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    Why do cats spray?

  • Flickr User: erlin1
    7 of 21

    ANSWER:

    This bad kitty habit can pop up for many reasons. Usually spraying is a feline's reaction to another cat in the same household. Spraying is a way to show dominance, spread information and mark territory between cats. If spraying is occurring in a single-cat household, then the feline is probably reacting to a change in the household that it perceives as a threat. (Love Meow)

  • PawNation
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    Why does my cat enjoy drinking out of the shower faucet?

  • Flickr User: Strivingtoagoal
    9 of 21

    ANSWER:

    Many feline faucet drinkers just find cold, moving and fresh water to be more exciting than the stale stuff in their bowls. Certain breeds also enjoy interacting with water. Your cat could be reacting to their water bowl as well. If the shape of the bowl is bumping your cat's sensitive whiskers the wrong way, they won't enjoy drinking from it. To cut down on faucet-drinking, try switching to a bigger or water-fountain style bowl. Always remember to give your kitty clean and fresh water everyday. (Cat Channel)

  • PawNation
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    Why do cats like to hide in dresser drawers?

  • Flickr User: florence_craye
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    ANSWER:

    Kitties adore being cozy. Like boxes and sinks,  drawers feel warm and protective to the kitties scrunched inside. The small space conserves body heat, and allows your cat to feel protected from threats. Drawers are an especially attractive resting place because of all the cushy clothes. (ASPCA)

  • PawNation
    12 of 21

    Why does my cat stick his butt in my face?

  • Flickr User: Ocktobre
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    ANSWER:

    You may not believe it, but when your kitty sticks his butt in your face, it is a way of showing love and trust. By presenting his rear end, your cat is putting himself in a vulnerable position to show that he trusts and respects you. Scent also plays a role. Since cats communicate by scent, this is also your beloved pet's way of informing you what he has been up to all day via smell. (Catster)

  • PawNation
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    Why do cats climb trees?

  • Flickr User: Himmel-R
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    ANSWER:

    Much like scratching, climbing is a behavior ingrained in kitties from their ancestors' time in the wild. Trees offer a sense of protection, and allow felines to keep an eye on neighborhood happenings. Outdoor cats may also seek out trees in order to escape strangers or dogs they find freighting. (ASCPA)

  • PawNation
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    Why does my cat drool when she is happy?

  • Flickr USeR: Unclebumpy
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    ANSWER:

    It is important to remember that drooling is a possible sign of oral pain, difficulty swallowing, ingestion of a non-food item or nausea. If you are confident your cat only drools when she is content and purring, then there is nothing to worry about. There is a select group of kitties that have this response to positive stimulation, and probably will be happy droolers for life. The reasons these cats drool is still unknown, but professional have ruled out health issues. (Vet Street)

  • PawNation
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    Why is my cat starting to pace?

  • Flickr User: mertielswart
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    ANSWER:

    Pacing in cats is usually a sign of anxiety. This behavior often starts spontaneously, then grows in frequency and can become permanent without help. The anxiety linked to pacing is arises due to the stress of confinement or a changes in your cat's environment. Pacing has also been linked to brain lesions, liver problems, vitamin deficiencies and pain. It is best to see a vet to determine the cause and try to reduce any potential environmental stresses at home. (PetMD)

  • PawNation
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    Why does my cat sit with her paws tucked under her body?

  • Flickr User: Siggi Churchill
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    Next: Expert Advice On Cat Mealtime Issues!

    ANSWER:

    Affectionally called "the loaf," this seating postion is your cat saying she is content with the world. By tucking in her paws and wrapping her tail around her body, your feline is showing that she pleased and comfortable with her surroundings. This is not an invitation to make contact, though. Usually while cats are in "the loaf" they want to be left alone in their peaceful mood. (Petside)