Why do cats like to stomp on humans?

Having lived with cats for a while, their owners cease to be surprised at the various oddities of these animals. But what if the cat unceremoniously walks around a person or strives to stand right on him when he is desperately trying to take a nap? Why do cats stamp their paws on a person – later in the article.

Why is my cat walking on me?

In short, a cat tramples on a person simply because he can. Most often, the ultimate goal of a cat that walks on his body is to get warm.

This is especially true for kittens who are trying to find a replacement mother. Babies need to be warm to stay healthy. They instinctively seek the comfort of someone who cares for them and who they trust to keep them safe. Domestic cats retain many of the instincts of a kitten, which means they look for the safest place in the house: next to their owner. The warmth of the human body provides the cat with the safety it needs.

Basically, the furry friend sees the person as a big pillow on which to relax. As Chewy writes, “the wearer’s knees are a cat’s bed.” Just like with a blanket, pillow, or sofa, your cat needs to make sure it chooses the perfect place to sleep. Walking around a person serves this very purpose.

When a cat tramples on its owners, it satisfies the need to trample on soft surfaces with its paws. Pets do this instinctively, often from early childhood to adulthood. While no one can pinpoint the reasons for this behavior with absolute certainty, many experts believe that cats do this because they copy the actions of their mother cat.

“Because your cat’s paw pads contain scent glands, stomping on them allows them to leave their own signature scent that other cats or pets can smell, but not humans,” explains Animal Planet. “In such a subtle way, she lets other cats know that this is her personal corner and that the rest should go trampling somewhere else.” 

In other words, when a cat stamps its paws on a person, it marks its territory.

Why do cats trample on the owner when he is in bed

A pet may have a habit of climbing up to a person when he has just settled down on the couch after a long day at work, or when it is three in the morning. In fact, the cat just wants attention here and now.

Knowing that the owner can be distracted by the TV, household or sleep, the furry friend understands that he will not be able to be ignored if he climbs on the owner and looks into his eyes. The cat probably hopes that this maneuver will help her get a snack before bed, a few extra strokes, or a big hug. And preferably all at once.

How to wean a cat to climb on the owner

There are several ways to gently reduce the frequency of claims of a fluffy beauty.

One of them is to gently remove the cat from the place where it interferes. For example, put her next to you or even on the floor. In no case should you shout at her or punish her.

You can switch the attention of the cat to her own corner for sleeping. For example, make her a crib that will satisfy her love of soft textures and her need for security. This is a great way to move her from your belly to a cozier and more dog-friendly place.

An important mantra to repeat every time your pet tries to climb on you is: “Why is my cat walking on me? Why is she standing on me? Because she loves me very much.”

The furry friend wants to be as close as possible to the owner, because he is his most beloved person. This will help you remember that this is just a way for a cat to show affection.