“sometimes it takes me a long time to get ready (365.2.69)” by splityarn is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
by Nomi Berger
If so, you’re definitely not the only one. What is it about bathrooms that our feline friends find so utterly fascinating?
Some cats see bathrooms as the purr-fect playrooms – whether their owners are in there or not. From a tub to circle or slide around in to rolls of toilet paper to unravel, from towels and robes to tug at to rugs or bathmats to roll around on – MEOW! Is it any wonder cats can’t get enough of such tempting “play things”?
Then there’s the sink. Its rounded sides are ideal for cradling a cat’s body, creating a cozy place for lounging and sleeping.
Its coolness may feel wonderfully refreshing during the warmer months, while her own body heat will warm it during the colder months, making it ever so comfortably toasty.
Although it’s common knowledge that most cats dislike being wet, many LOVE being near water – especially fresh, running water. In the bathroom, they can drink fresh water from both the sink and tub faucets, while some cats fancy licking a wet tub and lapping up bathwater.
Nothing piques a pussycat’s interest or provokes her ire more than the sight of a closed door – particularly a closed bathroom door with you on the other side of it. If you and your kitty share a special bond, not only does she know all of your habits and daily routines, she’s understandably curious about what you’re doing and wants to spend time with you. She yearns, even demands, to share in whatever activities are going on without her. Simply put, she doesn’t want to miss out on “all the fun.”
Notorious for seeking affection on her terms, a kitty who finds you seated on the toilet will take full advantage of your “trapped” paws-ition, knowing she now has your undivided attention. What could be more alluring or inviting than the sight of your warm lap exposed for her – if you allow it — to settle in and purr up a storm? What better way for her to garner some extra strokes and pets, head and chin scratches from you than by rubbing herself back and forth against your legs? Or … if you’ve just taken a bath or a shower, your kitty may relish her role as devoted “dryer” by lovingly licking your wet skin with her tiny tongue.
In short, a bathroom contains all of the subtle scents and smells of you: your cat’s most cherished being. This is where you spend much of your time each day performing so many of life’s little rituals. What you may consider mundane – combing your hair, washing your hands, flossing and brushing your teeth, drinking water, swallowing pills — may seem nothing short of miraculous to your cat as she watches every move that you make – from her perch on the vanity, the sink or the closed toilet lid.
Ironically, then, bathroom time can prove to be extremely valuable and pleasurable bonding time for you both.
