Every cat owner will be able to relate to this one, not a problem that dog owners have. Both of us in PubChat towers have experience of this with many cats over time.
Why do cats follow people to the toilet?
Cats of course do this for a mix of very cat like reasons 😄
Here are some of the most common ones that we have come across:
1. Curiosity
Bathrooms are usually closed off, so when the door opens, it suddenly becomes extremely interesting to them. Cats by their very nature hate to miss out on anything new.
2. You’re a captive audience
White you are on the loo, you’re sitting still, not going anywhere, and not distracted by other tasks. To a cat, this is prime time for them to get your attention, supervision, or judgment.
3. They’re social (on their terms)
Despite the “independent” reputation, cats often follow their favorite humans around. If you’re part of their territory, they simply want to be where you are.
4. Warmth & textures
Bathrooms have plenty of warm and often soft surfaces, bath mats, sinks shaped like cat beds. As well as sometimes having running water, all of which is very appealing to our feline friends
5. Protection instinct
In the wild, bathroom-like activities would make an animal vulnerable. Some cats seem to “stand guard” while you’re indisposed.
6. Routine
If it’s happened a few times, it becomes the ritual and the new normal. Cats as a species love routines even more than they love privacy.
7. Water fascination
Drips, flushing, showers, water is weird and mesmerising for cats. They want to inspect it closely (and of course maybe paw at it).
In short: You’re their person, the bathroom is interesting, and privacy is sadly not a concept cats respect.
