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Is your cat too clingy? Do they constantly follow you from room to room to room and never leave you alone? Or maybe your cat has started doing it all of a sudden. While this type of behavior can be endearing to some, it can be downright annoying to others, and it may point to an underlying health issue.
There’s a widespread assumption that cats are independent and aloof creatures that would never, ever succumb to the behaviors of a dog. However, this is not always the case.
Here are six reasons for your following feline.
The 6 Potential Reasons Why Your Cat Follows You Everywhere
1. Underlying Medical Issue and Stress
Being more clingy and following you around constantly may indicate an underlying health issue in some cats. This is more commonly seen in middle-aged and older cats, but it can happen in cats of any age, often due to conditions arising from discomfort and pain or fear and stress.
Diseases that cause an increased appetite, such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or digestive disorders, may lead to your cat following you around more and more noticeably. It’s important to get your cat checked out by the vet who can rule out an underlying medical reason for your cat’s clinginess. Stress, fear, and anxiety due to changes in their routine or environment may also lead to this, as the cat feels more secure in your presence and may need more reassurance.
If you are concerned about the health and well-being of your pet, seek veterinary advice for the best course of action.
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2. Boredom
Your kitty may be constantly following you because they are bored. Cats that spend a lot or all of their time indoors and are not adequately stimulated both physically and mentally may start developing signs of frustration and boredom. If your cat is using you as a source of mental stimulation, try enriching their environment. Provide them with plenty of interactive toys or a seat in the window where they can watch the birds, or take them out for a walk using a secure harness and a lead if they have been trained to do so. You can even build them a safe and enclosed catio.
3. Separation Anxiety
Believe it or not, cats can suffer from separation anxiety just like dogs do. If you’ve been away on a trip or working longer hours than usual, your cat may become exceptionally needy.
4. They Want Something From You
Your cat may be following you around because they are expecting something from you. They may be just after your attention, especially if they find you very interesting and are used to playing and interacting with you. Some cats may follow you around as a way of indicating they want to be let outside.
5. Playtime
Daily playtime sessions are vital for a cat’s mental and physical well-being. Cats hunt, stalk, and chase not just to catch prey, but to entertain themselves and hone their skills. If your cat “stalks” you from around the corner, they are simply fulfilling his instinct and having fun.
6. Begging for Food
Your feline may be following you around the house because they want some food or treats. This is obvious when they follow you into the kitchen for their morning meal, particularly if you are running a little bit late. Cats thrive off their routine and they may complain by following you around and meowing for food if their feeding time has changed even slightly.
Is It Healthy for My Cat to Follow Me?
Your cat following you around more than usual may be a sign of clinginess and an underlying illness or anxiety, so it’s important to get your cat checked by the vet. In other cases, however, it can be a sign of inadequate stimulation, frustration, or abnormally increased appetite. Some cats do this to play, show affection, and keep boredom at bay, and some may just like spending time with you, finding you very interesting.
However, it may be a worry if your cat follows you everywhere. They may feel unsafe and insecure in their environment, have separation anxiety, or be getting bullied by other cats in the household.
Why Is My Cat Following Me? The Bottom Line
Cats may follow their humans for a number of reasons, including illness, increased appetite caused by various disorders, insecurity, stress, fear, anxiety, boredom, and frustration, while some do it as part of their playing and even as a means to show affection or to request something from you, such as food or an outside toilet break.
If your cat suddenly follows you everywhere, it’s crucial to consult with your vet, who can rule out underlying health issues and help you pinpoint the exact cause for this behavior.
Interested in learning about other odd cat behaviors? Check these out:
Featured Image Credit: Familyschaffner, Pixabay
