Why Do Cats Put Their Butt in Your Face?

It’s a moment every cat owner knows. You’re relaxing, maybe watching TV, and then boom: Your cat sticks her butt right in your face.

You're not alone by asking, "Why do cats put their butt in your face?" This strange behavior actually makes a lot of sense in the feline world.

Contents

It’s a Greeting, Not an Insult
It’s About Scent, Not Sight
Your Cat Might Be Asking for a Pet
Should You Worry?

It’s a Greeting, Not an Insult

Among cats, showing the rear end is considered proper etiquette. Mother cats often lick and sniff their kittens’ rear ends to stimulate the kittens’ bowel movements and to identify each kitten by scent.

When two cats meet, one might raise its tail straight up and expose the rear end for a good sniff. It’s just how cats communicate.

So when your cat shows you her butt, she’s not being rude; she’s offering a sign of trust and affection. It means she feels safe around you and is treating you like a feline friend.

It’s About Scent, Not Sight

Funny cat butt — This cat's rear end might not fit in the feline's hidey-hole. Lightspruch / Shutterstock

Cats rely on scent glands more than vocal communication. Specialized glands near the cat’s anus secrete pungent, pheromone-rich fluids that convey detailed chemical messages unique to each cat.

That kitty butt is basically a biological business card.

Pam Johnson-Bennett, a noted expert in cat behavior, says this behavior is part of cat manners and a trusting relationship. Cats use their body language to say things us humans miss, and a raised tail with an exposed butt can mean "I like you."

Your Cat Might Be Asking for a Pet

Cat being pet — Your cat trusts you (at least a little bit) if it shows you its hindquarters and accepts pets. cath5 / Shutterstock

Sometimes your cat may back up into your hand, hinting that she wants a scratch at the base of the tail. This is a common spot where cats enjoy being touched, especially during a bonding moment.

If she’s putting her butt toward you while purring, it may just feel good to her.

Should You Worry?

In most cases, this is normal behavior. But if you notice excessive scooting, licking, or a smell that's stronger than usual, it could be a vet-worthy issue like impacted anal glands.

Still, a cat putting her butt in your face is usually just a quirky sign of affection. Think of it as a feline version of a hug or a kiss—albeit a weird one for humans.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.