If your cat has ever jumped in your lap while you’re on the commode, snuggled up with your underpants, or reached under the bathroom door, you’re not alone. Yet, have you ever wondered why cats are so interested in the bathroom? Here are a few possible explanations.
Cats love routines
Cats are prone to chaining behaviors which are a series of actions that come one after another. Therefore, routines such as getting ready in the morning, taking a shower, and using the toilet are very interesting to your cat. Your kitty will even remember approximately how long you spend doing each task, and may come in to periodically remind you that you’re taking too long!
You’re a captive audience
Since cats like to learn about everything you do, they’ll eventually come to realize that you’re not going anywhere for a few minutes while you’re on the commode. Some cats will want to use this time to stand on the bathroom counter at eye level with you in order to observe you or control the interaction. Others may see it as the perfect time for a cuddle break.
You’re inadvertently rewarding the behavior
Who could resist an adorable little face begging for attention, especially when you have nothing to do but sit with your thoughts? If you regularly give your cat attention while you’re on the toilet, your cat will follow you into the bathroom because he or she has come to expect it. Even if all your cat does is paw under the door, when you eventually open it, your cat associates his or her actions with a positive result.
The bathroom is a unique place in your home
Some cats can run a little hot, so the stone tiles and smaller area of the bathroom create a perfect environment for cooling off. The safe, enclosed space of bathroom can even supply a refuge for a kitty who doesn’t get along with other pets in the household, especially when you’re in it. In the wild, cats seek out enclosed spaces for safety reasons, which may also be why they prefer confines of the sink.
Do you have a daily routine that you like to follow with your cat? Our pet sitters are more than happy to keep your kitty in the swing of things while you’re away. Call us today!
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Candace Elise Hoes is a pet sitter and blogger at Katie’s Kitty. She is a graduate of the MFA Writing Program at California College of the Arts.
photo by Kylir Horton on flickr