Get

In Your Inbox

Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

What’s a Velcro Cat? 10 Vet-Approved Ways to Tell You Have One

Woman-owner-hugging-cat

Cats are amazing animals with unique personalities. Even if you’ve owned several cats, you are still likely to be surprised by their actions at times. Some cats can be independent, while others like to play constantly. Some are considered Velcro cats, which means they form strong bonds with their owners and are nearly always by their side. If you think that you have a Velcro kitty but aren’t quite sure, keep reading as we list several tells.

divider single cat paw oct 2024

The 10 Ways to Tell That You Have a Velcro Cat

A Velcro cat is a term used to describe a cat that is particularly clingy and affectionate. These cats tend to stick close to their owners, seeking constant physical contact and attention.

1. They Are Constantly Following You

A Velcro cat exhibits an unwavering commitment to being your constant companion and will follow you throughout the house. This behavior stems from a deep attachment and the desire to be an active participant in your daily life. Your presence offers them a sense of security and connection.

woman hugging her cat while working
Image Credit: Fusso_pics, Shutterstock

2. They Love to Cuddle

Velcro cats are constantly trying to get close to their owners and will often curl up to go to sleep next to them or right on them. This act of cuddling represents a profound need for intimacy and shared warmth. A Velcro cat’s eagerness to jump onto your lap or snuggle beside you reflects a strong emotional bond.


3. They Are Attention Seeking

A Velcro cat actively seeks your attention as a means of affirming their place in your life. Their vocalizations, whether through meows or other sounds, serve as a communication tool expressing a desire for interaction and acknowledgment. Being left alone for extended periods may trigger separation anxiety and inappropriate behavior, underscoring their reliance on your presence.

Woman hugging her cat at the morning
Image Credit: Alena A, Shutterstock

4. They’re a Purring Machine

The frequent purring of a Velcro cat goes beyond a simple expression of contentment. It serves as an audible affirmation of their emotional connection with you. The continuous purring becomes a comforting soundtrack, reinforcing the harmony of the relationship between you and your pet.


5. They Give Affectionate Head Butts

The act of head-butting, or bunting, is a unique and intimate way that Velcro cats express their affection. As they bump and rub their head on you, they share identifying pheromones, marking you as a trusted and beloved member of their social circle.

Gray-cat-rubbing-against-womans-leg
Image Credit: Gordana Sermek, Shutterstock

6. They Seek Out Lap Time

Seeking a place on your lap is a symbolic gesture of trust and reliance. The warmth and closeness offered by sitting on your lap can fulfill a need for physical connection.


7. They Have Grooming Rituals

When Velcro cats engage in grooming behaviors, either by grooming you or seeking grooming from you, it’s about more than cleanliness. It becomes a way to reinforce and strengthen your bond.

cat licking human arm
Image Credit: sophiecat, Shutterstock

8. They Demand Petting

Velcro cats will actively communicate their desire for physical touch. Whether through nudges, pawing, or rubbing against you, these actions are a deliberate expression of their need for affection.


9. They Exhibit Anxiety When You Leave

A Velcro cat often suffers from separation anxiety when you leave the house to go to work or run errands. They can often get extremely vocal and may turn to inappropriate behavior, like scratching up furniture or carpets and forgetting their house training. If your pet is showing signs of separation anxiety, we suggest you speak to a vet.

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content for PangoVet2 save money


10. They Sleep Close By

Choosing to sleep in close proximity to you, whether on the bed or a nearby cat bed, is a deliberate decision by a Velcro cat. It signifies a preference for shared rest, further reinforcing the emotional connection and dependency on your reassuring presence, even during periods of relaxation. The cat may even call you with meows when they feel that it’s time for bed.divider 2 cats

How to Train Your Cat Not to Be Too Clingy

If your cat’s constant need for attention is becoming overwhelming, you can gently encourage more independence while still maintaining a loving relationship. Here are some effective strategies:

1. Encourage Independent Play

Provide your cat with interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and different types of scratching posts to keep them engaged when you’re busy. Toys that mimic prey, such as wand toys or battery-operated toys, can stimulate their hunting instincts and provide independent entertainment.

Cat Yarn Cat House Playing
Image Credit: Oleg Opryshko, Shutterstock

2. Establish a Routine

Cats thrive on predictability. Set specific times and routines for eating, play, and cuddle sessions so your cat learns when to expect attention. Gradually increase the time between interactions with them to help them feel secure even when you’re not available.


3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward your cat with treats, toys, or praise when they engage in independent activities. If they start meowing for attention, ignore them and wait until they settle down before giving them affection. This will teach them that calm behavior and patience is rewarded.


4. Provide a Comforting and Stimulating Environment

Create an enriched environment for your cat where they can also be distracted by the external world, such as a cat tree by a window so they can watch birds fly by. Offer your cat a warm bed with familiar scents, or a quiet area with boxes to play with. This can help reduce their reliance on your presence for comfort.

cat on top of a cat tree
Image Credit: Africa Studio, Shutterstock

5. Avoid Reinforcing Clingy Behavior

It may be hard to avoid comforting your cat every time they seek your attention, but doing so can reinforce the behavior because even if it’s a negative response from you, it’s a response, and they know their behavior worked to get your attention. Instead, engage with them when they are calm and redirect them when they become overly clingy.


6. Consult a Veterinarian

If your cat’s clinginess is extreme or increasing, it may be due to anxiety due to environmental stressors or a health condition. A vet can help identify or rule out a medical cause and recommend behavioral strategies for your cat to become more comfortable when being alone. You can even discuss behavioral issues with a vet online at PangoVet.

ongoing online consultation of vet and elderly woman with cat
Image Credit: Miriam Doerr Martin Frommherz, Shutterstock

 

divider 2 cats

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Are All Cats Velcro Cats?

No, not all cats are Velcro cats. Cat personalities vary widely, and some cats are more independent and less clingy than others.

Is It Normal for a Cat to Follow Me Everywhere?

While some cats are naturally more independent, others, particularly Velcro cats, may choose to follow their owners everywhere. It’s a sign of affection and a desire to be part of your daily activities. If there is a sudden change in your cat’s behavior and they are following you all the time when they didn’t before, it may indicate an underlying problem. Keep a close eye on them and pay attention to any other signs that might indicate a health problem. Get them checked out by your vet if you have any concerns.

young man sitting on couch with his cat on his lap
Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

Can a Cat Be Too Clingy?

While some owners appreciate the affectionate nature of Velcro cats, others may find it overwhelming. It’s essential to strike a balance and ensure that your cat’s behavior doesn’t indicate anxiety or other underlying issues.

Is It Possible to Train a Velcro Cat to Be More Independent?

It may be challenging to change a cat’s personality, but providing them with enriching activities and interactive toys and creating a secure environment can help satisfy a Velcro cat’s need for attention while promoting independence.

What If My Velcro Cat Suddenly Becomes Distant?

Any sudden change in behavior can indicate a health issue or stress. If your Velcro kitty’s behavior changes unexpectedly, it’s advisable to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.

Are There Specific Breeds More Prone to Being Velcro Cats?

While personality traits vary among all cats, certain breeds are particularly well-known for their affectionate natures:

However, individual temperament plays a significant role, and not all cats of these breeds will be Velcro cats.

Are There Downsides to Having a Velcro Cat?

  • Velcro cats may become overly dependent on their owners, which can lead to separation anxiety when they are not around.
  • A Velcro cat tends to invade personal space and will follow you into the bathroom and the bedroom.
  • Some Velcro cats have an insatiable need for attention and may meow or paw at their owners or engage in other attention-seeking behaviors, which can be demanding and disruptive.
  • Velcro cats might develop problems with other pets because they demand your full attention and can get jealous when you spend time with the other pets in your home, which can lead to fights.

divider 2 cats

Summary

Signs of a Velcro cat include a strong desire for cuddling, seeking attention through vocalizations, frequent purring, anxiety when you leave, and a preference for sleeping close by. If your cat does many of these things, they are likely a Velcro cat. While some breeds, like the Ragdoll, Siamese, and Burmese, seem to produce Velcro cats more frequently, each cat is unique, and any breed might turn out to be a Velcro cat or, conversely, be more independent.

While these cats can be fun, they are also quite demanding, so consider your choice of purchasing one carefully, especially if you have other pets in the home.

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Wanwajee Weeraphukdee, Shutterstock

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Catster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

Is It Ok to Have Just One Cat? Vet-Verified Facts & Care Tips

Cats, although seemingly aloof, are social creatures that need to be around other cats or animals to live happy lives. Most cats love...

a woman holding a cat on her lap

Is My Cat Deaf? 6 Vet Approved Ways to Tell

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Is my cat deaf or ignoring me?”, you’ve probably noticed changes in your cat’s behavior. Maybe they are...

cat ear close up

When to Call an Emergency Vet & How to Find One for Your Cat – Vet-Approved Advice & Guidance

Cats are great at masking pain, which makes it more difficult for kitty parents to identify what’s an emergency and what’s not, particularly...

A cat with an emergency first aid kit.

The 5 Ways My Cats Makes Me to Be Illiterate

I love reading a good book and don’t seem to carve out enough time to really enjoy it. I usually find other things...

More related

Black cat in fear and aggression

How Aggressive Are Bombay Cats? Tendencies & Behavior Tips

The Bombay cat is a beloved house cat in many households because of its sweet disposition. They enjoy snuggling up to their owners;...

woman hugging her cat while working

Working from Home With Cats: 10 Ways to Prevent Distractions

While cats may add an element of fun and cute moments to your workspace, they may not be the most productive office mates....

abyssinian cat hisses

4 Angry Cat Sounds & Vet-Approved Tips on How to Calm Them

Cats often express their emotions—which can include anger and aggression—through various sounds. If your cat is making angry sounds that have you worried,...

white cat meowing and waiting to be served with food

6 Ways My Cats Tell Me It’s Mealtime

There are fewer things more persistent than a hungry cat! Even the most introverted feline has no issue alerting their owners to mealtime...

Keep reading

What Does It Mean When a Cat Purrs Loudly? Vet-Verified Facts & Reasons

Cats are fascinating creatures, and as cat lovers, we want to learn as much about them as possible. One of the most intriguing sounds that a cat makes is purring, and many wonder what it means, especially when it’s loud....

cat kneading and purring while lying on owner's lap

Basepaws Cat DNA Test Review: Pros, Cons, FAQ & Verdict

Have you ever wondered about the breeds that make up your cat? Or wondered what potential health problems your pet might face in the future? If you have, you’ll be thrilled to learn about the Basepaws at-home cat DNA test!...

Basepaw Cat DNA Test

Why Is My Kitten Sneezing? 5 Vet Approved Reasons

Kittens are some of the most adorable creatures on earth. They often weigh just a few ounces at birth and quickly grow into sweet bundles of feline perfection. But kittens, just like human babies, sometimes sneeze, refuse to eat, and...

a kitten sneezing in pink background

Epsom Salt Bath for Fleas on Cats: Vet-Reviewed Effectiveness, Safety & Alternatives

A flea infestation can make your cat miserable and put them at risk of diseases and internal parasites. Some cat owners prefer to avoid using pesticides and chemical methods to treat fleas in favor of homemade or natural remedies. One...

Sea salt epsom in wood plate

8 Best Cat Shampoo in Canada in 2025 — Reviews & Top Picks

Are you thinking about giving your feline friend a makeover? Perhaps you’ve noticed that Fluffy has been leaving an unappealing smell around the house, or maybe your cat simply needs a good cleaning. Either way, you might be wondering what...

cat in bathtub

Can Cats Eat Catnip or Is It Just for Sniffing? Vet-Verified Facts

Everyone knows that cats love catnip. If you’ve never seen a cat’s reaction to the herb, you must because it’s hilarious. Some cats go crazy on catnip, while others might just sit still and stare at nothing. The effects only...

Can Cats Eat Catnip

Why Is My Cat Peeing on My Bed All of a Sudden? 5 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

Have you ever had to ask yourself “why did my cat pee on my bed”? Us too. As cat owners, we love our cats but we don’t love their pee. It’s pungent and difficult to remove from places outside of...

cat-peeing-on-the-bed

Can Cats Eat Canned Salmon? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Cats are notorious for their love of fish, so feeding them a bit of canned salmon should be a no-brainer. What could be safer than that, right? As it turns out, while serving your cat canned salmon likely won’t kill...

Can Cats Eat Canned Salmon