Why does my cat stare at me?

Cats like to stare. Even the most anti-social, introverted kitties love to stare at their owners, people passing by and anything else. Sometimes, it gets a bit intense, which may make you ask: "Why does my cat stare at me?"

Here, we list the different reasons for cat staring, why cats stare, what types of stares there are and what to do if your cat won't stop taking their eyes off you. 

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Is it normal for cats to stare?

Yes, it's perfectly normal. Some cats stare a lot, while others don't - it's an individual choice. Cats use staring as a way to communicate, but like all forms of nonverbal communication, it has depth; not all stares mean the same thing.

We can categorise cat stares into seven categories:

Attention-seeking staring

Cats sometimes stare to get your attention or ask you for something, like food or a pet. Typically, this looks like a fixed, intense gaze while rubbing their body against you and vocalising.

Curious staring

Usually, this is an extended stare that fixes on one object or person. You'll notice this when you see a cat staring out of the window.

This is just cats expressing their curiosity and attempting to understand something.  

Dominant staring

This is a more intense stare that happens between at least two cats. You'll see aggressive body language and vocalisation mixed with this, and it's a way for cats to defend their territory or challenge another cat.

Fearful staring

Typically a fixed, focused stare with dilated pupils. A cat won't usually blink and will hiss and vocalise. This happens when a cat feels afraid or threatened.

Hard staring

Your care will stare at you without blinking in an intense way. It's similar to fearful staring and usually means a cat is dealing with anxiety, fear or frustration.

Playful staring

A cat who stares playfully will have dilated pupils and playful body language, like a wagging tail and pouncing.

Soft staring

A cat staring softly will have a relaxed, gentle gaze and blink slowly. This shows affection and trust.

Staring into space

Cats stare into space for no real reason too, just like us. It's nothing to worry about in most cases, although excessive wall staring can indicate a problem.

Why is my cat suddenly staring?

As mentioned, staring for cats is a personal, individual choice. So, when your cat stares suddenly, it can naturally worry you.

Firstly, it's probably nothing to worry about. But it's worth taking a moment to think about what's changed. Are there new members of the household? Have you changed their routine? Are they going through an illness? Are these staring contests new?

Answers to these questions should help you figure out why your cat's behaviour has changed. If you notice more staring combined with other symptoms, like behavioural problems, visual problems or symptoms of neurological issues, see your vet.

Common reasons your cat stares at you (and what to do)

Your cat wants attention

Cats sometimes look at you when they want attention, especially if they're vocalising (meowing and purring).

You should play with your cat, give them some fuss and check they have everything they need. You can also feed them, but be careful - you may positively reinforce staring and end up overfeeding your cat.

Your cat is expressing affection

You'll notice slow blinking and an intense stare, which we mentioned earlier.

We've mentioned how cats can recognise their owners before, and maintaining eye contact with humans is a key way they bond with us. It's a way of showing they feel safe.

Your cat is observing you

If your cat is watching you walk around the room and is closely observing you, they're likely just following natural hunting instincts.

They may be checking you closely for cues around food or playtime, which can help them set a routine.

Your cat is in predatory mode

Cats enter hunting mode on instinct, and when they're in this frame of mind, they tend to lock on to a specific target. You'll likely see your cat assessing movement and following potential "prey". This is a common reason why cats stare out of the window.

There is a difference between playful and aggressive predatory staring. For example, you may play with a laser pointer, and your cat will be more energetic and "bouncy", while a cat will combine intense staring with slow, meticulous movement when they're serious.

Your cat is anxious or stressed

This is an important point, as staring can indicate your cat is dealing with stress. Generally, you can't tell from the stare alone, so look for body language stress signs like:

• Appetite changes

• Excessive grooming

• Excessive vocalisation

• Flattened ears

• Hiding

• Litter box problems

• Low tail position

• Reserved body posture

Your cat has a medical issue

Occasionally, staring can indicate a health problem. For example, in older cats, prolonged staring could be due to cognitive or vision problems.

We covered this in more detail in our why cats stare at walls explainer. But generally, you should see your vet if your cat stares and has other worrying symptoms, like behavioural changes.

Why is my cat staring at me from a distance?

It's difficult to say. But generally, cats feel safer when they're far away, and the staring can fall into any of the categories we listed above.

Why is my cat staring at me when I sleep?

Your cat probably just likes you! A cat staring at you as you sleep is probably a mix of:

• Affection and bonding, as cats like to watch their owners when they're safe and comfortable

• Curiosity, as cats tend to find humans and our habits as a source of endless entertainment

• Security, as cats are naturally more alert and watchful late in the day

What to do if your cat won't stop staring

It all depends on your cat and why they're staring. For example, if you've given your cat fuss and food when they stare at you, you may have positively reinforced this behaviour.

First, check what type of staring your cat is doing. As an example, if they're engaging in fearful staring, try to make some changes to the environment to make them more comfortable.

You should engage with your cat if they're showing affection or playfulness, while you should give them space if they're frustrated or angry.

You can encourage positive interactions with your cat through things like positive reinforcement training, teaching them new tricks and making sure they have enough enrichment and stimulation, especially if they're indoor cats. Our indoor cat play guide can help if your cat needs more stimulation.

When to see a vet

You should see a vet if your cat's staring is accompanied by unusual behaviour like aggression, confusion and lack of focus.

Typically, excessive staring combined with other symptoms is linked with changes in cognitive or visual function.

While a cat staring has numerous reasons, it's usually nothing to worry about. But if you think you need to see a vet, cat insurance can help. 

Get behavioural cover up to £20,000 as part of your overall vet fee limit, on Complete Care

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