Why do cats show you their butt?

Have you ever been sitting there, minding your own business when your cat jumps up and suddenly there's a cat butt in your face? If you have ever wondered - why do cats put their butts in your face, you're not alone! Just why do cats show you their butt?

One answer to the question "why do cats put their bum in your face" goes back to kittenhood. According to cats.com kittens are used to their mother's grooming this area for them to keep them clean and also help them poop and pee! And, since you are their parent now, it's only natural for them to show you their butt. It's a way that cats bond with their mother's and now can be a way to bond with you! 

But, what does it mean when a cat puts its bum in your face? Cats know they are vulnerable at their back, so it is a sign of trust if they are showing you their butt. They are also showing that they are not a threat to you. A cat who is aggressive or irritated will not turn their back to you! But, your cat feels safe with you, and so they can turn their vulnerable side your way. They know they can trust you and you "have their back"! 

It could also be a way to greet you. Dogs are known for sniffing each other's butts when they meet. Its a way to find out more about the other dog, and according to catster.com, cats do the same thing. They may be showing you their butt as a way to say hello!

Cats also have scent glands around their bodies that they use to mark their territory, so if your cat is rubbing against you, they could be putting their scent on you to make you smell familiar and also let other cats know that you belong to them!

Cats buts to the face are also a sign of affection! Catster.com says that cats will often rub against each other to show affection and that when they do this they start at their head and end with their tail. So, your cat might end up with their butt in your face because they rubbed their body against you to say "I love you"!

You may have unintentionally reinforced this behavior. If your cat has put their butt in your face in the past and you have given them a few scratches on the butt in return, they have learned that this is a good way to get some pets from you! Even if you have laughed or reacted in disgust they have learned that a cat butt in the face is a good way to get your attention! 

So the next time you see a cats booty a little closer than you might prefer, remember that they are saying hello, I love you and give them some attention!

Cover photo by Marnhe du Plooy on Unsplash