My cat follows me everywhere: why?

No matter what you do at home, your cat is on your heels. It is normal for a cat to follow its owner around the house if this behavior is occasional. However, if it is frequent, even constant, it may be a sign that the animal is suffering or has specific needs. Several criteria must then be taken into account in order to distinguish the reasons for this behavior and act appropriately.

Why does my cat follow me everywhere?

This type of behavior can have several causes.

First, your cat may just be hungry or thirsty. By following you, he’s hoping you’ll head towards the kitchen where his croquettes are… Unless he’s hoping for a change of litter?

Your cat also knows your habits and loves these rituals. He likes to accompany you at bedtime, for example, hoping to sleep with you.

Certain cat breeds, naturally more affectionate than others, can also follow their master everywhere. In the first weeks, a young cat may also follow its master everywhere out of curiosity.

But one of the most frequent causes of this behavior, if it is daily, ishyper-attachment. It occurs when a kitten has been severely weaned or has suffered a trauma in the first weeks of its existence.

However, this behavior can also be linked to a health problem. Your cat may follow you around because it is sick or stressed and wants your attention.

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How do I react when my cat follows me?

It is important to listen to the animal and its needs. If your cat follows you everywhere, try to find the reason for this habit.

First, check that his food and water bowls are full, or that his litter box is clean. Your cat may follow you anywhere just to indicate its needs. These needs can also revolve around caresses, moments of tenderness or moments of play.

If he follows you much more than usual, but lacks appetite, seems weaker or is more anxious than usual, these may be symptoms of an illness. Also check if he is not injured. The ideal is to take him to the vet for appropriate treatment.

Hyperattachment of the cat: how to make it autonomous?

Cat hyperattachment is a special case. Unlike other situations, it will take longer to help the animal, as this attachment is often due to premature weaning. Some hyper-attached cats have a hard time being alone.

also read10 ideas to keep your cat happy while you’re away

Making the animal more independent goes through several stages to gradually accustom it to separation. First of all, leave an article of clothing impregnated with your smell available to the cat. Like a child’s comforter, this familiar smell will soothe him during your absence. You can also sprinkle a few drops of pheromones throughout your home. They will encourage your cat to explore and keep him busy for a few hours.

However, if your cat continues to follow you everywhere, it is recommended to consult a behavioral veterinarian.