Why My Cat Likes to Pull My Hair

Nearly 40 million households own one or more cats. Many of these feline owners claim that their cats actually own them, being fiercely independent, and at times aloof. However, there are moments when cats become affectionate, purring and rolling at your feet or perhaps licking and grooming your hair. This is normal behavior.

  1. Basic Cat Behavior

    • Most cats are fastidious about cleanliness. That's why they groom themselves regularly. It's an instinctive behavior. Even as tiny kittens, cats groom each other from head to tail. They also rub on each other, an action that marks the other cats in the litter with pheromones released from the cheek region. This scent is important because cats rely heavily on smell to guide them, more so than even their eyes. So if your cat pulls your hair and rubs his face into your neck, he is marking you as family.

    Grooming

    • Another reason your cat may pull your hair is as a natural extension of the kitty's grooming habits. A cat spends about 10 percent of her day preening. If the cat's lying behind you when grooming, you may find yourself getting combed and licked.

    Pica

    • For some cats, pulling an owners hair and eating it is a sign of Pica. It happens more frequently with kittens that were improperly weaned. The key here is that your cat won't be just eating your hair. He will chew on other inedible items, too. If that's the case, discourage the behavior and take the cat to the vet for a check up, as Pica may be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

    Affection

    • As with kneading, cats groom their owner as a way to show affection. Some cats find comfort in your hair or near the small of your neck, and knead your hair as they do your lap when you're cuddling. This behavior seems more prevalent in older cats.

    Cat-Human Interaction

    • When cats are happy, they endeavor to communicate that to their human owners. Grooming your hair and face is one more means of communication, as is purring and certain types of mewing. While her tongue may be rough, try to remember that your cat is bonding with you. It won't last long and improves your relationship with the cat.