Why does my cat scratch with his leg when I scratch when I scratch his head

Our question this week was:

Dr. Debra – Why does my cat scratch with his leg and move his head funny when I scratch in front of his tail?

John Davidson – Miami

Answer

Hi – thanks for your email John. You asked why your cat scratch with his leg and move his head funny when I scratch in front of his tail?

The answer is – because it feels good. Often it is an area that cats can’t reach well and they will tend to scratch with their leg – many to mimic the effect they would get if they could scratch that area themselves.

I have a cat that closes his eyes and moves his head from side to side like he is swaying – he is so happy when you scratch him there.

I don’t think it is a problem!

Best of luck!

Dr. Debra

Click here to see the full list of Ask Dr. Debra Questions and Answers!