Top 10 Questions New Cat Owners Ask (Answered by a Real Cat Lover!)

Becoming a new cat owner is a magical adventure – but it can also feel like stepping into a furry, mysterious world full of head tilts, twitchy tails, and endless “why are you like this?” moments.

When I welcomed my trio of whiskered wonders – Tito, Myratz, and Pierre – into my life, I was already pretty familiar with the ways of the feline world. But somehow, every new cat brings their own delightful quirks and fresh mysteries to solve. It turns out, the questions new cat owners ask are often the same ones even seasoned cat companions revisit – because with cats, there’s always more to learn (and laugh about).

So if you’re staring at your new feline friend in pure awe (or mild confusion), you’re not alone. Grab a cozy spot – maybe even a cardboard box (your cat would highly approve) – and let’s dive into the top questions new cat owners ask, sprinkled with real-life stories and a lot of love from my own crazy, wonderful crew.

1. Why Do Cats Knead?

Tito, my black-and-white mischief-maker, loves to knead anything remotely soft – blankets, pillows, my lap, and occasionally even the laundry basket. When it comes to questions new cat owners ask, “Why does my cat knead everything in sight?” is definitely one of the first mysteries to solve.

Cats knead by rhythmically pressing their paws against surfaces, a behavior that begins when they are tiny kittens. It stimulates milk flow from their mothers and creates a sense of comfort and safety. Even as adults, kneading remains a sign that your cat feels happy, relaxed, and secure.

And here’s a fun bonus fact: cats have scent glands in their paws, so every time they knead, they’re not just getting cozy – they’re also subtly marking you or their favorite blanket as theirs. (Honestly, I wouldn’t want it any other way.)

If you’re curious and want to dive deeper into this adorable habit, I wrote a full article about it here: Why Does My Cat Knead? Understanding the Mystery of Making Biscuits.

2. Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?

If professional napping were an Olympic sport, Myratz would already have a gold medal (and still be snoozing on the podium). One of the classic questions new cat owners ask is: “Why does my cat sleep so much? Should I be worried?” Fear not – your cat isn’t lazy; they’re just brilliantly efficient.

Cats are crepuscular creatures, meaning their natural rhythm gears them to be most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk – perfect times for stalking, pouncing, and engaging in secret nighttime mischief. During the rest of the day (and night), they conserve their energy in preparation for their next big hunt… which, in an indoor cat’s case, usually involves pouncing on dust particles or dramatically chasing invisible forces around the living room.

On average, cats sleep anywhere from 12 to 18 hours a day. Kittens and senior cats might even clock closer to 20 hours! It’s part survival instinct, part physical need, and part royal diva behavior – because honestly, if you could sleep in a sunbeam for half the day without any guilt, wouldn’t you?

Myratz’s personal specialty? Sprawling out in maximum fluffy glory across the one chair I actually want to sit on. It’s not laziness – it’s strategic energy management… and maybe just a tiny bit of feline trolling.

So the next time you wonder about all those catnaps, remember: your kitty is doing exactly what nature intended – and probably dreaming of glorious conquests involving toy mice, crinkly tunnels, and you serving dinner five minutes earlier.

3. Why Do Cats Have Whiskers?

Pierre’s whiskers aren’t just there to make him look extra dashing (although, let’s be honest, they do a fabulous job of that). When it comes to the questions new cat owners ask, “Why do cats have whiskers?” is right up there – and the answer is way cooler than you might expect.

Whiskers are, quite literally, a cat’s built-in GPS and obstacle detection system. These specialized, super-sensitive hairs – called vibrissae – are deeply embedded into a cat’s body and connected to a complex system of nerves. They can detect the slightest changes in air currents, helping cats sense nearby objects without even touching them.

Thanks to their whiskers, cats like Pierre can judge whether they’ll fit through a tight space (though they sometimes attempt it anyway, because… cats). Whiskers also help them hunt, balance, and navigate in complete darkness like tiny, adorable ninjas.

And here’s a critical tip for all new cat owners: never trim a cat’s whiskers. To us, they might seem like decorative features, but for cats, losing their whiskers would be like trying to drive at night without headlights – disorienting and stressful.

Pierre uses his majestic whiskers daily to investigate mysterious paper bags, navigate narrow windowsills, and occasionally poke me in the face at 3 a.m. when he wants snacks. Honestly, if I had a built-in radar system as elegant as his, I’d show it off too.

So, the next time you’re admiring your cat’s whiskers, remember: you’re looking at one of nature’s finest masterpieces of feline engineering.

4. What Does Catnip Do to Cats?

Ah, catnip – the great equalizer, the ultimate feline party starter, and a source of endless entertainment for both cats and humans. Among the many questions new cat owners ask, “What does catnip actually do to cats?” might just be the most fun to answer.

When I first introduced Pierre to catnip, it was like watching a switch flip. He rolled, flipped, purred, and zoomed around the room like he’d just discovered the meaning of life (and possibly the location of the secret treat vault). His eyes glazed over in pure, blissful ecstasy before he eventually collapsed into a dreamy snooze pile. If happiness had a physical form, it would be a cat on catnip.

The magic behind this phenomenon is a compound called nepetalactone, found in the leaves and stems of the catnip plant. When inhaled, it binds to receptors inside a cat’s nose and affects their brain in a way that’s a little like a feline daydream rollercoaster. About 50% of cats have the gene that makes them sensitive to it – so if your cat doesn’t react, don’t worry, they’re just part of the naturally chill half of the population.

The effect typically lasts around 10 minutes before your cat’s system resets and they return to their normal, slightly judgmental selves. It’s completely safe, non-addictive, and provides an excellent outlet for energy and stimulation – especially for indoor cats who might need a little extra excitement.

Just a word of advice: moderation is key. Too much catnip can sometimes lead to mild tummy upset (yes, even feline raves have their limits). But a pinch here and there? Pure, purrfect magic.

5. Why Do Cats Hate Water?

Myratz looks at a puddle like it just personally insulted him. And honestly, he’s not alone. When it comes to questions new cat owners ask, “Why does my cat hate water so much?” is practically guaranteed to pop up – usually after a wildly unsuccessful bath attempt.

Most cats are not fans of water for several very good (and very feline) reasons. First, their fur isn’t designed to dry quickly. A soaked coat feels heavy, cold, and unpleasant, stripping away all the sleekness and ninja-like agility cats pride themselves on. Imagine wearing a dripping wet bathrobe while trying to sprint – not exactly dignified.

Plus, cats are creatures of habit and comfort. They love warmth, softness, and things they can control – and water, with its unpredictable splashes and temperature changes, is the enemy of everything cozy and controlled. In short: wet equals unhappy cat.

That said, not every feline despises H₂O. Breeds like Maine Coons, Bengals, and Turkish Vans are known for their surprisingly adventurous attitudes toward water, often dabbling paws into sinks, bathtubs, or even swimming pools. (Myratz, however, has officially filed a lifetime protest against even light rain.)

When it comes to baths, keep them rare and only when absolutely necessary – think mud disasters, medical treatments, or run-ins with something… unspeakably sticky. And always bribe, I mean reward, your cat afterward with treats, affection, and apologies for the indignity.

Bottom line? Water and cats are a complicated relationship – kind of like humans and assembling IKEA furniture.

6. Why Do Cats Eat Grass?

Tito, my resident part-time houseplant inspector and full-time grass connoisseur, takes his greenery-tasting duties very seriously. One of the classic questions new cat owners ask is: “Why is my cat munching on grass – and should I be worried?” The answer is not only fascinating but also surprisingly reassuring.

Despite their status as obligate carnivores, many cats seem to crave the occasional nibble of fresh greens. Eating grass can help with digestion and sometimes acts as a natural mechanism to induce vomiting, allowing them to expel fur, feathers, or other indigestible bits they might have swallowed (because apparently, eating random stuff is part of the full cat experience).

But the benefits don’t stop there. Grass might also supply trace nutrients like folic acid, or simply work as a mild natural laxative to keep things moving along internally. Some cats even seem to enjoy the texture and taste just for fun – because why not add a little botanical adventure to your day?

If your indoor cat is a wannabe botanist like Tito, the best thing you can do is offer them a safe, cat-friendly alternative. Growing a pot of cat grass at home is not only easy, but it’s also a win-win: your cat gets a healthy outlet for their grazing instincts, and your houseplants get a fighting chance at survival.

Curious about starting your own feline garden? I’ve put together a full guide here: Why Your Cat Needs Cat Grass: Fun, Healthy, and Easy to Grow.

7. Why Do Cats Like Boxes?

Pierre firmly believes that no box is too small, too flimsy, or too ridiculous for his majestic presence. When it comes to questions new cat owners ask, “Why is my cat obsessed with boxes?” is definitely high on the list – usually right after you find your cat ignoring a luxurious bed in favor of a scrappy cardboard Amazon box.

Boxes aren’t just random hiding spots to our feline friends – they tap into deep-rooted instincts. In the wild, small, enclosed spaces provide crucial advantages for predators like cats: protection from larger threats, a cozy place to conserve body heat, and a hidden base for launching surprise attacks on unsuspecting prey (or in Tito’s case, my ankles).

At home, it’s less about survival and more about creating cozy, safe havens where they can nap, observe the world undetected, and plot their inevitable world domination. (Probably while looking insanely cute.)

The security, warmth, and perfect “just-my-size” feeling of a box can soothe even the most anxious kitty and satisfy their natural desire to have a personal fortress.

If you’ve ever wondered why the simple act of tossing a cardboard box on the floor brings such uncontainable joy, you’re not alone – and I’ve written a full article exploring this adorable phenomenon: Why Cats Love Boxes: The Ultimate Feline Fascination Explained.

(Warning: one box will never be enough.)

8. Why Do Cats Purr?

Few things in life are better than the warm, rumbling sound of a purring cat curled up right next to you. It’s one of those pure, perfect moments that melts away stress and makes you wonder if cats have secretly figured out the meaning of happiness.

Among the questions new cat owners ask, “Why do cats purr?” often tops the list – and the answer is even more magical than it seems.

Sure, purring usually signals contentment. When Myratz curls up in my lap and purrs, I swear the whole world feels softer, quieter, and somehow more manageable. But there’s much more happening under those vibrating whiskers. Scientists believe purring also serves as a built-in healing mechanism. The vibrations – typically between 25 and 150 Hertz – have been shown to promote tissue regeneration, reduce pain, and even strengthen bones. (Basically, cats are tiny furry self-healing machines.)

Cats might purr when they’re happy, but they also sometimes purr when they’re scared, injured, or stressed – possibly as a way to calm themselves and accelerate healing. It’s their all-purpose wellness tool, used for both celebration and self-comfort.

And here’s the best part: studies suggest that being near a purring cat can also lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels in humans. So when your cat is curled up and purring beside you, it’s not just for them – they’re sharing their magic with you, too.

Honestly, I think the world would be a much calmer place if we all just spent twenty minutes a day listening to cats purr.

9. Why Do Cats Lick Their Owners?

When Tito decides to grace me with one of his enthusiastic sandpaper kisses, it feels less like a random gesture and more like I’ve been officially knighted into his royal court. Among the sweet and often hilarious questions new cat owners ask, “Why does my cat lick me?” is definitely one of the most common – and the answer is full of affection (and a little bit of territorial pride).

In the wild, cats lick each other as part of social grooming – a vital behavior that strengthens bonds within a colony. It’s a way of saying, “You’re family. You’re one of us.” When your cat turns those rough little kisses your way, it’s not just grooming – it’s an emotional connection. You’re officially part of their inner circle, their trusted tribe, their Very Important Purr-son list.

Licking also serves other subtle purposes. Sometimes it’s to mark you with their scent (because apparently you needed additional proof that you are owned), or it could simply be an expression of affection and trust. Cats will often groom each other to reinforce social structures, and when they do it to you, they’re extending that same gesture of belonging.

Tito takes his ambassadorial duties very seriously. Sometimes it’s a quick lick on the hand; other times, it’s a full head-bath whether I asked for one or not. Either way, every scratchy kiss is packed with meaning – and honestly, knowing that your cat sees you as part of their world is one of the greatest compliments you can get.

So the next time your cat treats you to a rough little grooming session, just smile and accept it: you’ve made it into the VIP section of their very exclusive club.

10. Why Do Cats Meow?

Tito, true to his dramatic soul, has a full opera of meows – from gentle, polite inquiries to full-blown dramatic solos that could easily earn a standing ovation (or at least a quicker dinner service). When thinking about questions new cat owners ask, “Why does my cat meow so much?” is absolutely one of the most popular.

Interestingly, adult cats don’t actually meow at each other very much. In the wild, once they grow up, meowing mostly fades away – replaced by body language and scent marking. But when it comes to their human companions, cats evolve a special meow-language just for us. It’s as if they looked at humans, realized we were a little slow on picking up subtle tail flicks, and decided, “Fine. I’ll say it.”

Each cat develops their own unique set of vocalizations, tones, and even “phrases” to communicate specific needs or moods. Some meows are requests (“Feed me now, peasant”), some are complaints (“You’re late with dinner, and I’m filing a formal protest”), and some are simply affectionate greetings (“Hey, you’re home!”).

Learning to understand your cat’s personal symphony of meows is like decoding a secret language – one that deepens your bond and opens up a private friendship that’s just between the two of you.

With Tito, I now know the difference between his “Hey, want to cuddle?” trill and his “Where’s my lunch, woman?” aria. Trust me: it’s worth learning the tunes.

And honestly, there’s nothing quite like having a conversation with a cat who clearly believes you’re the most important audience in the world.

Welcome to the Wonderful World of Cats!

Every swat, purr, and curious head tilt is part of your cat’s unique way of communicating and living their best life. Understanding why cats knead, purr, nap all day, or nibble your plants helps you become a more connected and caring cat parent. Trust me – with a little patience (and maybe a few sacrificed houseplants), you’ll be fluent in “cat” in no time.

Are you puzzled by that unblinking kitty gaze? Read about in my Why Does My Cat Stare at Me? The Hypnotic Gaze Explained for the science (and sass) behind those hypnotic eyes.

P.S. Want to see Tito, Myratz, and Pierre in action? Follow along for more furry adventures and tips from a real-life cat household!