Why Cats Love Watching People Use the Bathroom
Typically, when a cat follows its owner to the bathroom, it's a form of "companion behavior." However, this wasn't always the case. Cats didn't naturally exhibit this behavior in the past, but as they spent more time with their human companions, they developed strong bonds and became curious about their every move. In households with multiple felines, there often emerges a "leader" cat that sets the trend. Once one cat starts following, the others tend to follow suit, leading to a group of cats gathered around their human's bathroom. In such situations, it's nearly impossible to shoo them away, and the owner often has to give in.
Cats also have a strong sense of territory. To them, elimination isn't just about disposing of waste; it's a sign of claiming their space and, in some cases, a sign of estrus. This is why they are particularly sensitive to their owner's bathroom habits. When their human enters the bathroom, they may be on the lookout for any signs of encroachment on their territory, and if they sense any, they can become quite defensive. Wild cats are accustomed to patrolling their territories, and they become anxious if they notice something missing. This is why domestic cats often follow their owners around or become restless if they can't see them, as they've come to see their human as part of their territory.
Curiosity is another driving factor behind a cat's interest in watching their owner use the bathroom. Cats are famously curious creatures, often driven by the search for food or hairballs, and they possess a strong sense of adventure from birth. They are constantly exploring, which has become a habit over time. Therefore, when their owner goes to the bathroom, cats are curious to see what's going on, and human actions can be quite bewildering to them. This is why they keep watching, finding it fascinating each time. This is similar to why cats watch their owners bathe; it's purely out of curiosity, with no hidden intentions.
Some cats may also enter the bathroom because they feel anxious and uncomfortable being left outside. Without their human's presence, they can become restless, and some may even scratch at the door and cry. Cats are highly social animals, and they seek attention not just when their owner is in the bathroom but whenever they feel ignored. This is why you might see funny videos of cats holding their owner's pens or lying on keyboards; they're simply trying to get noticed and feel secure.
While it can be quite awkward to be watched while using the bathroom, it's important to cherish the bond with your own cat, even if it means tolerating this behavior. Some owners may try to force their cats out, which can easily upset them or cause stress. It's usually best to let things be. If you have any further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinarian.
