Why does your cat race around the house at 3 a.m. like it’s chasing ghosts? Why do they knead your blanket, stare into space, or shimmy their tail when you pet them?
Cats are famously mysterious—and their odd behaviour is the reason they are the queens of the internet! But how do you know when your cat’s quirkiness is just normal feline fun—or a subtle sign that something’s wrong?
Let’s unpack the difference between “just being a cat”… and behaviour that might need a second look.
Quirky But Normal Cat Behaviours
Cats are full of strange and wonderful habits—and many of them are completely normal. These behaviours are usually instinctual or comforting actions carried over from kittenhood:
Zoomies (especially at night): Your cat’s wild 3 a.m. sprints are usually a burst of pent-up energy.
Kneading: This gentle pawing mimics the motion kittens use to stimulate milk from their mother. It now signals comfort and affection.
Tail quivering (with no urine): This looks like spraying but is actually a sign of happiness—often seen when your cat is feeling affectionate.
Sleeping over 16 hours a day: Totally typical for adult cats. But if they start sleeping more than usual, take note.
These “weird” actions are often just your cat being… well, a cat.
Red Flag Behaviours to Watch For
Sometimes, unusual behaviour signals something more serious. Sudden changes in your cat’s routine can point to pain, illness, or emotional stress:
Hiding more than usual
Mood changes like grouchiness or withdrawal
Missing the litter box or going nearby
Excessive vocalising, especially at night
Frequent vomiting—even if you think it’s “just hairballs”
These behaviours are your cat’s quiet way of saying, “I’m not okay.” Catching them early makes all the difference.
Medical Conditions That Trigger Behaviour Changes
Some behaviour changes are linked to serious health concerns. These include:
Hyperthyroidism – Common in older cats, this overactive thyroid condition causes weight loss, increased hunger, restlessness, and loud meowing due to a faster metabolism.
Kidney disease – Leads to increased thirst, frequent urination, and lethargy as waste builds up in the blood. It can result from age, toxins, infections, or long-term damage to kidney function.
Dental disease – Drooling and reduced appetite from plaque or gum inflammation. Leads to pain, bacterial growth, and infection if left untreated.
Urinary issues – Straining or peeing outside the box may be due to bladder inflammation or urinary stones— these symptoms are often linked to stress, diet, or disease.
Arthritis – Hiding, poor grooming, and less jumping can signal joint pain. Inflammation and joint wear cause stiffness, discomfort, and reduced mobility, especially in aging cats.
Neurological issues – Disorientation, accidents, and nighttime howling may appear as cats age. Often linked to brain changes like protein buildup, reduced blood flow, and brain cell loss after age 10.
Your vet may recommend blood tests, urine screening, or imaging to get a clearer picture of what’s going on under the surface.
When Should You Call the Vet?
The moment you notice a change—however small—it’s worth a chat with your vet. Cats are excellent at hiding pain. By the time something seems obvious, it may already be serious.
If your cat is over 7, a routine senior check-up is even more important. At Lilydale Vet Centre, our senior vaccinations now include a complimentary blood test. This helps identify underlying conditions early—before they become life-altering.
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