Why Do Cats Follow You to the Bathroom?

The bathroom door is shut and in no time at all a paw pokes its way under the door. Or a loud meow starts. Or your cat just walks in, as if it were home. Why do cats follow you to the bathroom, of all rooms? There are clear explanations as to why, according to cat behaviour specialists: attention, curiosity, routine and comfort. Let's go through the questions that owners ask the most, one at a time.

It is normal. Cat behaviourists and veterinarians agree this is a normal cat behaviour. Your cat isn't weird.

The habit does not imply that your cat considers the toilet to be special. One cat behaviourist noted that if you were to sit on a chair in the bathroom instead, your cat would behave the same. The room isn't the draw. You are.

Consider what you are doing. You're not moving. A cat finds it easy to approach a person who is sitting still in one place.

Cats come to us most often when we are at rest, according to experts. A sitting or lying down position may appear as a friendly, non-threatening signal. And when it comes to the bathroom, walking away simply isn't an option. Your cat gets your full attention, possibly for the only time all day. Cats do make very close bonds with their people, and this quiet time is important to them.

Very often, yes. Cats are inquisitive and want to know what is going on. That is blocked by a closed door. A University of Pennsylvania veterinary researcher says cats become frustrated when they don't know what's going on behind a door.

A cat is both a predator and prey, so knowing all the rooms helps it feel safe. When you close a door on your cat, your cat wants in, in part because it wants to see what's going on.

Cats get used to routines quickly. If you feed your cat right after your morning bathroom visit, your cat will make the association. Soon, following you there becomes part of the "breakfast is coming" plan.

This is the same for petting. A lot of people pet their cat when sitting on the toilet. A cat that enjoys being stroked learns that the bathroom is a reliable place to get it.

A lot, from a cat's perspective:

Some veterinarians suggest this. Going to the toilet is a vulnerable moment for cats. They need to remain still, and their scent might attract predators. So a cat may stay by your side when you're in the same position. This is an idea, not a proven fact.

Usually not. However, if your cat suddenly follows you everywhere and becomes very vocal, pay attention to what else has changed. Cats may be clingier when they are stressed or after a loss in the family. Some vets also believe that constant attention seeking is linked to boredom. More play and puzzle toys can help. If this is accompanied by changes in eating, litter habits or energy, consult the vet.

It is okay to let your cat in, but make the room cat-safe:

Looking to interpret more of your cat's body language? Discover why cats headbutt you and the secret meanings of purring.

Your cat likes to come to the bathroom with you because you're still, the door is shut, and there are interesting things in the room. The rest is taken care of by routine and love. Keep the space safe, enjoy the company, and remember that your cat likes being near you.