Why Does My Cat Walk on Me? 7 Vet Approved Reasons for This Behavior

If you have a cat that walks all over you either when you're awake or when you're sleeping, you may find it strange and possibly even annoying. It's natural to wonder what the cause of this behavior could be, and we're going to look at several possible explanations.
Join us while we review the most popular theories for why you're cat walks and stands on you. We will also discuss possible alternatives you can try to curb this behavior if it's bothering you wherever possible.

The 7 Reasons Why Your Cat Stands on You
1. They Love You

Many people believe the reason that cats walk on you, especially when you're sleeping or watching TV, is simply that they love you and want to be near you. Many pet owners notice that when they go to the bathroom or they go upstairs or into a different room, the cat will often follow. This following action shows that your pet likes to be near you, and sitting on your lap or standing on you is the next logical step to following you.
What Can I Do About It?
2. They Trust You
The next reason many people believe their cat stands on them is that their pet trusts them not to hurt them. Most of us know that cats are very wary of strangers and will quickly run and hide upon meeting someone new. Therefore, it's logical to assume that a the cat is standing on you, they trust that you will not harm them, so they don't need to hide.
What Can I Do About It?
3. To Show Ownership of You

Many people believe that the reason cats stand on you is to claim ownership. Cats claim ownership over things by putting their scent on them, and many believe the cats can pass their scent through their paws as they walk over you.
What Can I Do About It?
4. To Get Your Attention
We can all agree it's pretty hard to ignore a cat walking on you or standing on your back when you're trying to sleep. Cats are intelligent and learn this quickly. They will use it anytime they want your undivided attention, and it will likely be successful every time.
What Can I Do About It?
5. You Are a Nice Perch

Many people believe that a cat is using you as a perch when they stand on you, especially if other pets are in the home. Cats like high places, and your lap and shoulders can provide a great vantage point while you're awake, and if you sleep on your side, your hip is a nice place to sit and look around.
What Can I Do About It?
6. You Are Warm and Comfortable
If your cat has just begun to stand on you and it is getting to be winter, there's a good chance that they are cold and looking for your warm body to get some heat. Cats often like to snuggle and will often seek out the warmest person during the winter months.
What Can I Do About It?
7. They Are Exploring

Cats are very curious and love to explore. It's not unusual to find a cat climbing on just about anything in your home, and your body is no exception. There is a strong possibility that your cat is simply exploring, and you have provided them with a new surface.
What Can I Do About It?

Summary
We hope this article has been successful in helping you understand some of the reasons behind your cat's behavior. In most cases, having your cat jump on you during the day is not a problem, but it can become frustrating at night if it happens regularly. Hopefully, some of the solutions we've offered will provide relief. If we have helped you understand a little more about your cat, please share this guide for why your cat walks on you on Facebook and Twitter. Related read:
Why Is My Cat Suddenly Walking Like They’re Drunk? Possible Reasons
Why Is My Cat Peeing on My Clothes? How to Stop It (Vet Answer)
How to Keep Cats Off Kitchen Counters: 10 Effective Vet-Approved Tips & Tricks
Featured image credit: rock-the-stock, Shutterstock
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Christian started writing for a local newspaper as a teenager, and he's been involved in the publishing industry for most of his adult life. Combining his love of writing with a passion for animals, he is currently the Director of Editorial at Pangolia and the Editor-in-Chief at Catster.
Christian lives in the Philippines with his wife, son, and four rescue cats: Trixie, Chloe, Sparky, and Chopper.













