Like many cat dad and mom, there’s nothing I like greater than a very good headbutt from my cat. Whether or not I’ve simply come residence from a protracted day or have simply woken up and rolled away from bed, I stay for that overzealous nuzzle. It makes me really feel cherished and appreciated by my cat — and after every part I do for her, are you able to blame me for wanting a bit of affection in return? I imply, I do clear up her poop each day, proper? It’s good to know that she likes me again!
Anyway, the cat headbutt, or “bunting” because it’s usually known as, is likely one of the cute quirks all of us love about our feline buddies. However why do they do it? And is it at all times a very good factor?
“Headbutting in cats, usually known as ‘bunting,’ is often an indication of affection or marking territory with their scent glands positioned on their head,” Michelle Dulake, DVM, co-founder and CEO of Fera Pets, explains. “This conduct is mostly regular and never a trigger for concern.”
Whereas headbutting is completely regular on your cat to do, there are completely different the explanation why they might or might not do it. Learn on to study extra about why your cat headbutts and whenever you may need to go to the vet.
Why does your cat headbutt you?
Typically talking, most cats take pleasure in bunting. Dulake says how a lot bunting your cat does relies on their character, previous experiences, and how snug they really feel of their surroundings: “Some cats are extra affectionate and social (making them extra prone to headbutt), whereas others is likely to be extra reserved and/or shy.”
Causes for headbutting are just like why people affectionately contact their important different or a member of the family — it’s a surefire signal they like us loads.
“Cats headbutt to point out affection. It’s their manner of marking you with their scent, signifying that they see you as a part of their household,” Dr. Abel Gonzalez, DVM, tells Scary Mommy. “Headbutting additionally helps cats bond with their house owners and different cats. It’s a social gesture indicating belief and friendship.”
Gonzalez provides that generally a cat headbutts you to get your consideration, whether or not for petting, feeding, or taking part in, and different occasions, headbutting is used to mark their territory. “Cats unfold their scent glands positioned on their heads. This helps them mark their territory, which incorporates their favourite people,” Gonzalez explains.
Are there particular issues that may set off headbutting?
As a cat mum or dad, you may acknowledge that generally your cat headbutts you extra at some point than the subsequent. What’s the deal? Dulake says headbutting might be triggered by a wide range of completely different causes, together with a want for consideration or affection, recognizing your scent after being away for some time, stress or searching for consolation, or optimistic reinforcement in the event that they’ve been rewarded for his or her conduct previously.
As an example, in my cat’s expertise, she at all times offers me a headbutt once I give her a deal with after trimming her nails. She is aware of, deep inside, it was a very good factor to do!
Is it at all times a very good factor for a cat to headbutt?
In accordance with Dulake, headbutting is totally regular most often and might be thought-about a very good signal of affection and bonding. “It helps strengthen the bond between you and your cat and might be comforting for them,” she says.
Nonetheless, if a cat headbutts excessively or aggressively, it is likely to be an indication that it’s anxious, pressured, or has a medical situation. “Noticeable adjustments of their conduct, corresponding to elevated aggression or lethargy, are indicators that one thing is unsuitable,” Dulake explains. “Wall urgent is extra regarding. When a cat presses its head in opposition to a wall or different floor for no obvious cause, it’s a critical conduct that may point out a neurological situation, toxicity, or different well being issues.”
Dulake says that usually wall urgent is an indication of circumstances corresponding to:
- Mind tumor or harm
- Liver illness (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Poisonous poisoning
- Infections (corresponding to rabies or fungal infections)
- Stroke
In case your cat is wall urgent, Dulake warns that searching for veterinary consideration is crucial. “This conduct shouldn’t be ignored, as it may be a symptom of a critical underlying well being situation,” she says.
What do you have to do in case your cat is experiencing emotional points?
In some situations, extreme headbutting is likely to be an indication that your cat is experiencing some stress or discomfort. Possibly she’s been left alone too lengthy, or possibly she’s not used to your new child or the brand new furry pal in your own home. If that’s the case, Gonzalez recommends offering a protected, snug surroundings with loads of hiding spots and vertical areas. Moreover, he suggests partaking your cat with interactive play to assist them expend vitality and relieve stress, in addition to offering your feline pal with a constant routine to offer a way of safety.
And when doubtful, seek the advice of along with your veterinarian that will help you work out options so your cat can return to her headbutting-with-love self.
