Tags Animal Life

Animals & Plants Arts & Entertainment Auto Beauty & Health Books and Literature Business Electronics Engineering & Technology Food & Drink History Hobbies Jobs & Education Law & Government Math People & Society Science Social Studies Sports Travel & Places

0

Subjects>Animals & Plants>Animal Life

Why does my cat's back move when I pet it?

Loraine Quigley ∙

Lvl 10

∙ 2mo ago

Updated: 1/13/2025

When you pet your cat, its back may move because it is a natural response called the "pilomotor reflex." This reflex causes the muscles in the skin to contract, making the hairs on the cat's back stand up. It can be a sign of pleasure or excitement in some cats, while in others it may indicate discomfort or irritation.

AnswerBot

∙ 2mo ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

Blake

As your older brother, I've been where you are—maybe not exactly, but close enough.

Chat with Blake

Judy

Simplicity is my specialty.

Chat with Judy

Devin

I've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.

Chat with Devin

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts

Q: Why does my cat's back move when I pet it?

Write your answer...

Submit

Still have questions?

imp

Trending Questions

How can I determine the gender of a kitten using pictures? How can you help me care for my cat? What animals climb? Where do musculus live? How do aquatic animals get oxygen and survive? How old is Bella sara? Why is biological diversity important? How are animals affected without sustainability? What was the weather like between 1990 - 2000? How do rabbits reproduce and what is the process involved? How did duckweed gets its name? What is Daniel craigs favorite animal? What is adapt sound? How do you treat a dog hit by a car that can walk a little but cries really loud when trying to stand after lying down or turning to get more comfortable? What kind of boffalo live in the Savannah? Why do geckos' tails fall off? What type of dog do you want to bring into your home as a new furry companion? How is a vacuole different implant animal cells? What are some alternative options for snake food besides traditional prey items? How does the lilypad adapt to its environment?

Related Questions

Why should you move slowly to pet a cat?

Because the cats are from Voodai. They are hazardous and must be eliminated

Why do cats' backs move when you pet them?

When you pet a cat, their backs may move in response to the sensation of your touch. This is a natural reaction called the "purr response," where the cat's muscles twitch and ripple as a sign of pleasure and contentment. It is a way for cats to show that they are enjoying the interaction with you.

Where do cats like to be petted?

Depending on the cat, they like to be pet everywhere. For instance, I've known cats that love to be pet on their bellies, though it's not that common. My cat likes to be pet specifically behind her ear on the bump of muscle. She also enjoys just being pet on her back near her tail. There is no certain spot that all cats like being pet on. Some cats don't like being pet at all because they weren't raised near humans or something like that.

Did pet cats used to be wild?

Yes. Cats were domesticated in ancient times, but all pet cats today are descended from wild cats.

Why do cats walk back and forth when you pet them?

Cats may walk back and forth when being petted because they are trying to find the most comfortable position or they are enjoying the sensation and are showing their contentment.

What is the best pet to get if you have cats?

More cats.

How do you make a zu zu pet move?

u push its back and it moves :)

Why are the backs of cats ears fur softer then the rest of their fur?

most people dont pet back there. your hands have oils and makes the cats fur oily or damaged and sometimes a cats fur is jus dirty but its hard to get their back of their ears dirty.

Where do the cats come from in pet stores?

Other cats

Are there big cats in Jamaica?

There are pet cats and stray cats but no big cats in Jamaica.

Why does my cat's back twitch when I pet her?

When you pet your cat and her back twitches, it is likely due to a reflex called the "scratch reflex." This reflex is a natural response in cats that causes their muscles to twitch when they are touched in certain areas, such as along their spine. It is a normal and common reaction in cats and is not usually a cause for concern.

When you pet a cats tail does it feel it?

I think so because when i pet my cats tail it moves it towards me.

Still have questions?

imp

Resources

Top Categories

Product

Company

Copyright ©2025 Infospace Holdings LLC, A System1 Company. All Rights Reserved. The material on this site can not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with prior written permission of Answers.