Why Does My Cat Stare at Me? Vet Explains All The Reasons

If you have your own cat flatmate, you might have noticed they give a lot away with their body language. But, have you ever looked across the room to find your cat completely still, and holding direct eye contact without blinking? Or perhaps you’ve noticed them kneading on the sofa next to you while staring at you and purring? Let’s find out what it means when your curious cats keep staring at you.

By the way, this article is about cats, but if you’re wondering why your dog stares at you, we’ve got you covered.

Why is My Cat Staring at Me?

If your cat companion is staring at you without blinking, all the time, it can feel a little bit creepy. But don’t be scared – it’s part of your cat’s body language and other cat do the same. 

Your feline friend has not been possessed or trying to take over your mind! The explanation for why your cat is staring at you will depend on the situation, what you’re doing, and normal cat behavior.

Here are some examples:

Cats Stare While You’re Sleeping

When you’re sleeping, you’re completely still and your kitty stares might be curious as to what you’re doing. If they’re lonely, they might be deciding whether they’re allowed to join you for a catnap or debating waking you up because they want your attention. 

If they’re hungry, they might wonder how best to disturb you so that you get up and feed them! They might even be watching over you, ensuring you’re safe while you’re at your most vulnerable. 

However, it’s also true that cats who are stressed, anxious or unwell might wish to spend more time with their owners, rather than being alone. If you’re worried your cat might have separation anxiety or they’re acting clingier than usual, you should speak to a veterinarian.

Cat Staring While You’re Eating

The most likely explanation for why your cat is staring at you while you’re eating is that they want some. By staring at you, they’re hoping you’ll give in and offer them a tasty morsel, or perhaps they’ll get lucky, and you’ll drop some. Of course, cat curiosity is also bound to play a part, and since cats mainly eat cat food, they’re probably wondering what your human food is.

Cat’s Staring When You’re Crying

When you cry, your cat will pick up on your emotions. Not only will they be intrigued or confused about what’s going on, but they might also want to comfort you. The vibes in the room might make them apprehensive or unsure about approaching you, so if you’re open to a kitty cuddle why not extend your hand or gently call them over?

They might even be watching over you, ensuring you’re safe while you’re at your most vulnerable.

Cat’s Staring Across the Room

If your cat holds direct eye contact with slow blinking at you from a distance, it probably means they’re bored and what you’re doing seems interesting. You can also check their body language, does it look like a relaxed cat or more playful? 

Remember, cats don’t follow the social rules of human society, so in your cat’s world, staring isn’t rude. 

It might also mean that they’re feeling a little uncertain about whether they want to interact with you, so give them time to feel relaxed and confident while they hold a staring contest. 

On the other hand, if you’ve recently done something that has accidentally made your cat feel scared, anxious, or distressed, they may stare at you from a distance wondering if you’re a threat or worrying you’ll do it again. If you’re wondering how long your cat will hold a grudge after incidents like this, you can find out more in our blog post.

Cat’s Stare While Purring

If your cat is staring at you while purring, there’s no confusion about whether they want your attention and do so by tail tucked and holding eye contact. Cats usually stare at their owners and purr when they want to be petted or curl up on their laps. 

If you’re sitting on the sofa and your cat is standing at your feet, staring and purring, they’re probably waiting for an invite for them to join you.

Why Does My Cat Stare at Me While Meowing

Meowing is a common cat communication. If your cat is staring at you and meowing, they might just be being sociable. Many cats will have ‘conversations’ with their owners if they get a reply. 

However, meowing might also mean that they’re making demands rather than casual chit-chat. Check the time – if it’s mealtime they might be hungry, or perhaps they just want your attention.

If your cat is staring at you and meowing, they might just be being sociable.

Cat Stares are Part of Their Body Language

It’s rude for people to stare, and we wouldn’t get away with staring as cats do in the human world. However, many cat behaviors wouldn’t be acceptable for humans, and vice versa, so it’s best not to read too much into it. 

Rather than being creepy or ignorant, it’s normal for cats to stare for various reasons. They might be interested in what you are doing. They could be feeling bored. Or maybe they’re just waiting for the right time to ask for food or a cuddle.

However, if your cat is suddenly farting more than usual or has any other symptoms as well as excess gas, you should take them to your veterinarian for a check-over.

FAQ

Is it normal for a cat to stare at you?

Cats don’t know or care what’s rude in the human world, so they’re not staring to make you feel uncomfortable. It’s very normal for cats to stare, either because they’re bored, curious, hungry, or attention seeking.

Why do cats stare at their owners?

The reason why a cat stares at their owner depends completely on the situation. If you’re lying very still, sleeping, or crying and distressed, they might be curious about what you’re doing. If you seem upset, they might also want to comfort you. On the other hand, they might just be bored or spending some time deciding whether they want to approach you.

Why does my cat sit still and stare at me?

If your cat sits like a statue and stares at you, it might feel like they’re being a bit weird or sinister! However, they might just be interested in you and your behavior, or perhaps they’re hesitating, waiting for you to invite them to join you. After all, if you are your cat’s best friend, they might be staring at you because they love you and appreciate your presence.

Why does my cat creepy stare at me?

Cats don’t know that staring is creepy. The social rules among cats are very different from ours. Therefore, cats don’t stare to be creepy or rude, they’re just doing what comes naturally. Cats are very curious by nature, and if they’ve had a boring day and you return home, they’re probably enjoying the entertainment of watching you!