A cat that does this usually tries to attract attention by doing so. It is actually an act of marking their territory. A cat’s scent glands are located on their paws, which they use to knead up the area before leaving their urine and feces. They also use this scent to mark the object that they are on, which is why your cat probably kneads you while purring or nuzzling up against you.
The reason why cats like feet specifically are that they love warmth. A warm foot means a nice cozy place to sleep in. Cats would love to sleep on your feet because that’s where the warmth is and since they like you so much, why not share some of it?
Why does my cat sit at my feet and stare at me?
A cat is a social animal. In the wild, where they are vulnerable to predators, they must be part of a group. Kittens, in particular, need plenty of human contacts when they are developing because that provides them with security when their mother is away hunting or unable to tend to them.
As with kittens, adult cats enjoy being around their owners too. They are not just social animals. They are also solitary hunters. So while they may enjoy being around humans when the hunting is done, cats do much better on their own when it comes to taking down prey. This is why they often go out for days at a time without returning home to feed or rest until nightfall.
One thing they do need from their human owners is companionship and attention, and that is why cats like feet – because it is close to you and gives them a chance to be with you. A cat staring means they are simply looking for your attention or perhaps something else.
If your cat feels threatened by another animal or person in the home, they will pester you to let them out. If they are content and bored, then staring for a prolonged period is a sign that they require more attention from you.
What does it mean if my cat rubs against me?
Rubbing against your legs means she is marking her territory – think of it as a feline way of giving you a hug! Cats have scent glands in their cheeks, and they rub against objects to leave their own scent, which will tell others that the object is marked by them.
Your cat may even be digging her teeth into your legs too, which lets everyone know she has been there. Cats often mark territory with urine, but sometimes this is too obvious. So, cats have developed a way of marking without being so obvious about it. Sometimes this is to mark you as their territory!
But there are other times when your cat rubs against your legs simply because she wants you to notice her. Cats enjoy their attention from rubbing against humans or just sitting on them. But cats also enjoy the company of humans, and so they will try to get your attention in any way possible.
Do cats sleep on your feet to protect you?
A cat sleeping on your feet is probably more about the warmth than anything else. Cats are good at regulating their own body temperatures, but they actually need you to help them stay warm too.
When a cat lies on top of your legs or feet, it’s usually because your lower limbs have a higher temperature than the rest of your body or perhaps the rest of the bed. This is why cats often sleep around or on top of their owners during winter or cold nights because it helps them to keep warm and comfortable.
You might think that a cat sleeping at your feet means they are protecting you, which isn’t completely true. Cats rarely form such strong attachments with their human companions, so they may simply be using you as a pillow. But at the same time, they still think of you as their territory and feel safer next to you or near your feet. Suppose dangers are lurking outside like burglars or other predators. In that case, your cat will likely wake up before you do if anything approaches!
Conclusion
Cats are social animals that need plenty of human contact when developing, which is why kittens need to be around their owners.
Your cats also enjoy the company with you. They will try to get your attention in any way possible- this could mean sleeping on top of you or rubbing against your legs.
