Why do some cats go crazy with joy when you pet them behind the ears, while others run away? What makes them close their eyes, squirm in pleasure, and purr like little motorbikes – or look at you like you're the worst criminal on the planet?
Cats. Science has some surprising answers, and one of them completely contradicts everything you thought you knew about your cat.
Why this area is so sensitive – it's not just about pleasurable sensations
No part of a cat's body is randomly shaped, and the skin behind the ears hides a network of hypersensitive nerve endings that trigger an explosion of signals in the cat's brain.
If you touch the right spot, a cat experiences something similar to a human when the tension in their shoulders is released or their thoughts finally clear after a long day.
But if you miss, if you press too hard or too fast, if you are too intrusive – be prepared for cold ignorance or even an aggressive response.
Caressing is not just pampering – it is something much deeper.
This touch is something intimate, personal, reserved only for those closest to you. When you pet her behind the ears, you are essentially sending her a signal that she is safe, that she is part of the family, that she does not need to be on the defensive.
Your cat may even mark you as theirs with the pheromones they secrete from this part of their body – if they start rubbing against your hand after scratching, you are officially accepted as part of their world.
But be careful – if she doesn't like it, you're permanently excluded from this ritual.
The biggest misconception – not all cats enjoy this
There is a belief that all cats love being petted behind the ears, but this is a lie, a big lie. Some cats have overly sensitive nerve endings in this area, and touch can even itch or bother them, while for others it is due to a bad past experience.
If you've ever seen a cat suddenly back away, it's a clear sign that you've crossed a line.
A cat that indulges in petting experiences more than just pleasure
When a cat starts closing its eyes, purring, writhing, and even turning its head to direct you to the right place, it's not just experiencing a pleasant touch—it's releasing a whole cocktail of hormones.
This is a combination of endorphins, serotonin, and oxytocin, which act as natural tranquilizers, improving her mood and helping her to completely relax. If you notice that after petting your cat, she holds a soft, long gaze – this is the highest level of trust she can give you.
But be careful – if you do it wrong, everything will turn against you.
If you're too fast, too rough, or touch a spot that's uncomfortable for your cat, it can turn into a nightmare. Tail wagging, tense posture, head turning, or even mild biting are clear signs that you've missed the mark and it's time to stop.
Every cat She has her own threshold of pleasure and discomfort, so you need to read her signals – if she surrenders to you, continue, if she withdraws, stop.
The right technique – how to do it like a pro
To get the most out of your cat, it's important to use the correct technique. Start gently with your fingertips, not your nailsMove in circular motions and don't press too hard.
If your cat responds positively, try the side of her neck, where there are often additional pleasure points. Watch how she moves - if she tilts her head, this is an indication of where she wants more pressure.
