If you own a cat, you probably already know they are beautiful, charming, unpredictable animals. Cats send different signals to their human caretakers through different behavior patterns. One of those behaviors is cats rolling in the dirt. Although cats are considered spotless, you may be confused by this situation sometimes. So this article discusses whether this behavior is normal, why cats roll in the dirt, and what can be done if you want to prevent them from doing so.
Are cats rolling in the dirt a normal behavior?
Cats squirm and roll over at you trying to get your attention and protection. The belly is the most sensitive area in cats; they show different behaviors exposing their stomach when they are safe and relaxed. But you might wonder if it’s normal for cats to roll in the dirt and if it’s terrible for them. In response to that situation, it is widespread for cats to roll in mud gently. Cats may do this to keep themselves cool, for fun, or win your love.
But if your cat is rolling like crazy, it means that the cat is experiencing some discomfort. If we look at the reason, we should observe the cat. Cat feces can sometimes be dangerous. Also, debris such as glass and stones hidden in the dirt can injure the cat. Deadly parasites can harm your cat, especially by rolling in the outdoor litter.
Dust and dirt from cat litter can cause itching, and mites, fleas, ticks, or other parasites can cause dermatitis. In such a case, you can consult a veterinarian, and prescribed antiparasitic drugs can be used. So, it is important not to play with dirt too long and to pay attention frequently. Then you can protect your pet from these adverse conditions.
Reasons for cats roll in the dirt
In this situation, it’s helpful to know why cats roll in the dirt. Because if you keep any animal as a pet, you are responsible for their safety and health. Accordingly, let’s take a look at some of the reasons behind this behavior of cats.
- To cool down – A cat’s body temperature is usually high, and they roll around in the dirt when they need to cool down. Cats prefer to be exposed to the sun to cool down their body temperature, and cats move on the ground mostly on hot days. The soft soil under the dump is more excellent than the surface, so they often dig and roll over it in the evening.
- To get attention – You may miss your pet when you are busy. In such a case, the cats roll in the dirt to divert your full attention. If this plan is successful, they will likely do it repeatedly, so be careful to give the cat-loving care.
- To attract male cats – If your pet is a female cat, she will roll in the dirt like this to attract male cats in a flirtatious manner. Moving like this signals to male cats that she is ready for mating. Your cat has no control over this condition.
- To protect the digestive system – Cats are more concerned about their health than other animals. Like taking care of your hair daily, you also maintain a sound digestive system. When cats roll in the dirt, they pick up bacteria from the soil, which they ingest by licking and making the food easier to digest.
- For fun – Cats prefer to hang out outdoors because it is a space where they can have fun activities. Cats have as much fun rolling in the dirt as climbing trees and walls. Some cats like to be joined in the action, while others want to be left alone. You can also understand this behavior as an invitation to play with cats.
- To claim their territory – You already know cats have a good sense of smell. Cats use this scent to communicate with each other. Their scent glands are around the tail, cheeks, and even on the feet, and dust bathing is a way of survival. Claiming territory means staying away from their environment to other cats.
How to prevent cats from rolling in dirt?
If you don’t mind your cats rolling in the dirt, you don’t need to do anything about it. But if your cat hangs around a lot outdoors and rolls over the dirty stuff a lot, there are a few things you can do to prevent that situation.
- Keep indoors – If you want to stop cats from rolling in the dirt, you should avoid going outside and be safe inside because of the risk of possible cat accidents, injuries, and poisoning. But cats can be challenging to keep indoors as they run, jump, and paw freely.
- Set up cool spaces – Cats often roll around in the dirt to cool off, especially on hot summer days. There are several alternative ways to make your cat comfortable in this situation. One option is to install a fan in the house; if that is not possible, You can provide your pet with access to places with cold water. Resting in a cool place is necessary to regulate your cat’s temperature.
- Play with the cat – You can minimize this behavior if you can play with the cat. Cats can be chased, hiding your pet’s favorite toy under a rug so cats can dig it up and get it. Giving your pet more love and care will make it forget about playing with dirty things.
- Build a playhouse – Create a playhouse with plenty of toys to play with and choose from so your cat doesn’t get bored. Set up a cat tree nearby in an easily accessible location. This cat tree can divert attention away from rolling in the litter.
- Set up a Catio – You can set up a catio to prevent cats from rolling into the litter box so they can enjoy the outdoors safely. Be sure to build with a window open to be more secure and come out when needed.
Conclusion
You already know that cats roll in the dirt. You don’t have to worry about that behavior as it creates a favorable environment for their existence. But if your furry pet is unusually pooping, it should be closely monitored. If you suspect a problem, take your cat to a veterinarian and get the necessary treatment.
