Why is My Cat So Clingy? Here Are Weird Reasons that Will Surely Shock You
One thing that I truly love about cats is that they are naturally affectionate. They are cuddly and they love to stick around and follow wherever you go. However, there are times that they get extra clingy. While this does not appear alarming, it is inevitable to know the reason behind such behavior.
Truth be told – although I enjoy how my cat loves to stay close to me, I admit that it could sometimes be a bit too much to bear. This is especially when I need to work and get things done. As much as I try to extra patient sometimes, I honestly feel that I need to address such clinginess.
To finally shed light on my question – why is my cat so clingy?, I needed to do a bit of extra research on the natural behaviors of my feline friend. Let me share with you some of the odd and shocking reasons as to why your cat tends to get a bit too clingy sometimes.
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7 Reasons Behind a Cat’s Clingy and Needy Tendencies
#1. Your cat may be suffering a medical condition you are not aware of.
One of the signs that your cat may be ill is that it has become more clingy or affectionate. When an independent cat starts to transform into a needy cat is considered a subtle sign of possible illness. Just the same, when a needy cat becomes less affectionate, she may also be suffering from an illness.
According to CATegorical Care: An Owner’s Guide to America’s #1, a change in the way cats interact with their owners is typically a sign that you should have your cat checked by a veterinarian the soonest possible time to rule out any possible illness.
#2. Your cat is new and is having difficulties adapting.
Another reason as to why your cat may be extra clingy is that she is new and may still feel a bit insecure. This happens when your cat has not found her own spot yet. Therefore, she has the tendency to latch on your more. As the owner, she may also expect you to be her main source of comfort.
Cats also demonstrate the same behavior when they see a drastic change in their environment. For instance, if you have moved the furniture or used a new rug with the distinct odor, this could intimidate a cat easily.
To address this behavior, you need to help your cat get used to the new place. This will take time and typically lasts for several weeks. To help your cat adjust, she needs to be confined carefully indoors until she has fully adapted.
#3. Your cat is aging and experiencing cognitive decline.
When cats start to age, they tend to demonstrate the opposite of their normal behavior. For instance, a friendly cat may become less interested in you. On the contrary, an aloof cat may suddenly become overly needy or clingy. Either way, this could be a sign of aging.
As this is a cause is irreversible, you can think of it as an opportunity to experience the opposite side of your cat’s personality. Being patient with your cat as she ages gives her the comfort that she needs. Remember that these animals are just like humans as well. They need more care as they grow old.
#4. Your cat is demonstrating behavior to its breed.
Genetic predisposition is also one of the reasons your cat may demonstrating an odd behavior. According to animal behaviorist Dr. Jacqui Neilson, DVM, and DACVB, cats that are purebred exhibit certain personalities or trait.
For example, the Abyssinian cats are more energetic and high-spirited. They like to play and be cuddled by their owners. Siamese cats are known to be more vocal when communicating what they want. They meow incessantly when they want to be cuddled, fed, or played with.
On the other hand, the Persian cats are the less active ones. They tend to crave for attention. For this reason, they make a great lap pet.
#5. You have adopted a rescued cat.
Just like people, cats may also have trust issues resulting from bad experiences. For instance, if your feline pal had a difficult life in past, the experience could have instilled fears in her. So, when they are finally adopted and found a new home, they tend to cling with the impression that it could be just temporary.
It is important for the new owner to establish a bond of trust with the cat. This would not only resolve the clinginess but also reduce the stress and anxiety that your cat may be experiencing. Trust also helps in developing security and in keeping them calm.
#6. Your cat may be vulnerable.
Cats with certain disorders tend to feel more insecure and vulnerable. For instance, cats that suffer from Cerebellar Hypoplasia (CH) tend to cling more to their pet owners as they view them as their own comforter or provider.
These CH cats are more vulnerable and are more prone to accidents. This is why it is important to keep them indoor instead. As these cats typically have trouble walking, they tend to stay too close to their owners. Learning more about training CH cats on how to be more independent would immensely help your pet.
#7. Your cat has mommy issues.
Cats may also experience separation anxieties. This anxiety often occurs when a young cat is separated from her mother too early or from her owner. The cat may demonstrate her anxiety in different from including being extremely clingy or needy.
Other symptoms of cats suffering from separation anxiety include incessant meowing, overeating or undereating, being aloof to people, being overly fussy, or defecating outside her litter box. You can ease your cat’s anxiety by giving her a stimulating environment or by desensitization.
Animal behaviorists also express that when the cat gets too clingy, it’s important not to indulge in this demanding or clingy behavior. Make the environment more interesting so they do not resort to latching on your quickly. More importantly, always opt for a professional advice when the behavior starts to become worrisome.
Conclusion
I certainly hope that I was able to impart relevant information with you today. As a cat owner, having this list allows me to understand why is my cat so clingy and what I can do about it. What about you – what’s the most surprising fact you have discovered from the list? Comment below and do not forget to share.
