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If a Cat Rolls on Its Back

Cute little cat with green eyes lying down

Do you ever wonder what a cat’s body language means?

Cats are curious creatures; they are well-known and beloved for their antics. If you are not familiar with these famous felines, you might have trouble completely interpreting their body language. If a cat rolls on its back in front of you, for instance, what does that mean?

Reasons a Cat Rolls on Its Back Repeatedly

Feeling Playful

Some cats are energetic, extroverted, and playful. They are the kind that would love to play with a laser pointer. Your cat in question might be feeling playful and want you to engage with it. Another possibility is that it is just rolling around for the fun of it. 

Trusting and Respecting You

If some animals lay down in front of you and show you their vulnerable side (literally), then it means that they trust you and respect you as a companion and owner. It is an honor to have a cat trust and respect you in this way.

Wanting Attention

Another possibility is that it wants your attention. It wants you to pay attention to it, give it pets, play with it, or give it treats. This cat wants you to stop in your tracks to give it some love, and it might even block your path entirely.

Scratching an Itch

The first three possible reasons a cat rolls on its back have to do with its communication with you to a higher or lower degree. The next three are more to do with itself or its kind. Simply put, your cat might be rolling on its back to scratch an itch. It might be as simple as that. 

Stretching

Another possibility is that it is stretching. If your cat has a skin issue, that is one problem, but if it is just stretching, there is likely no problem at all. Everyone needs to stretch sometimes! In addition to rolling on its back, it will likely extend its limbs as well.

Seeking a Mate

Your cat might also be rolling on the ground in search of a mate, particularly if it is a female cat. This action signals to nearby toms that a female is in heat. If you do not want a litter on your hands, please talk with your local vet about spaying your cat.

Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!

At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!

This entry was posted on Monday, October 16th, 2023 at 12:16 pm. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.