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Our cats like to invade our space at our most vulnerable moments, and bathroom time is no different. Have you noticed your cat visiting their litter box when they spot you on the toilet? Is it a coincidence? Is it a competition? Is it a communal ritual?
It’s probably a matter of bonding with you, though it’s hard to speak for all felines. However, we’ll discuss a few reasons as we examine the feline’s fascination with the bathroom.
Cats & Bathroom Trips
It’s not common for your cat to use the litter box when you do your own business. However, that does not mean it’s unrelated to you. It’s typical for your cat to follow in between your feet as you shuffle to the bathroom. Many cat owners confess to their cats curling up by their feet or even trying to jump into their lap while they use the bathroom.
But is there a reason for this? Some cats prefer privacy while using the litter box, but others seem to enjoy sharing the bathroom with their owners. If you try to shut your cat out of the bathroom while you go, your cat may meow or scratch the floor. Some cats cannot tolerate having their access blocked by their owners.
Cats & Elimination Privacy
The bottom line is that cats don’t care about privacy as much when their human is the one using the bathroom. You might think that this is an incorrect statement. After all, think of all the hooded litter boxes advertised to shield your cat from peeking eyes.
Cats care a lot about protection. Using the bathroom is a vulnerable time for any mammal, so their instinct is to hide. In the wild, this could leave them susceptible to attacks, so you could say that it’s ingrained in their DNA. But they feel safe in your company, even if it means that they will use their litter box while you’re in there too.
When I Go, You Go Too
So, in addition to general bathroom visits, is there a real reason that your cat is so adamant about sharing this time with you? The truth is, there’s no scientific explanation for the behavior, just speculation. It could be a bonding activity. Some felines may prefer communal bathroom trips, much like middle school-aged kids between classes.
They feel more connected with you. It’s possible that going when you go may make them feel safer in your presence. Also, if they associate certain smells with you, they might want to share the experience.
If Bathroom Sharing Is a Problem
If you can’t concentrate on the toilet when you have judging eyes staring at you, maybe it’s time to relocate the litter box. This isn’t always possible if you have few options on litter box placement, but you can always give it a go.
Also, if you can handle the screams accusing you of betrayal, you can permanently shut them out while you go. You might get the stink eye for days without a break, but eventually, they’ll get over it.
Final Thoughts
Our cats are a real mystery, and it’s challenging to interpret their unusual behaviors, even for scientists. Joining you in the bathroom could be a bonding opportunity or a way to feel secure when cats use the litter box. It’s hard to say exactly why they develop certain habits or why they are widespread through the feline gene pool. But one thing is for sure: your cat doesn’t plan on stopping anytime soon.
Featured Image Credit: Jennifer McCallum, Shutterstock
