7 quirky cat behaviors and what they mean

While some cats are clumsy, most cats intentionally knock items off of surfaces as a ploy to get their owner's attention.

"Sometimes they seem to do it for their own entertainment or because they have learned that this is a game that their owner seems to enjoy," Bradshaw explained.

Source: Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015

Even though cats are considered masters at concealing their thoughts and emotions, they do try to show affection by slow blinking. Researchers call these slow blinks "kitty kisses."

Next time you notice that a cat is giving you this feline eyewink, try and slow blink back. More often than not, a cat will continue to slow blink with you.

Source: Cat Sense, The Cat Behavior Answer Book, Petful

Walking across your computer keyboard and attacking your screen may be the simplest way for your feline friend to get your attention. Then again, if your cat isn't seeking your attention, researchers note these following reasons:

• Cats love the warmth of a computer.

• Keyboards feel super interesting underneath a cat's paws.

• Could there be anything more intriguing to a cat than watching a computer screen?

Source: Cat Sense, The Cat Behavior Answer Book, Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015

Cats become frustrated with their inactivity and usually resort to running around in order to counteract their boredom.

"The slightest movement, perhaps just a speck of dust caught in a shaft of light, can set them off," Bradshaw noted.

Source: Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015

Cats that lick plastic bags may either be bored or trying to alleviate stress.

According to Moore, some cats were removed from their mothers' milk before they were completely weaned, and therefore cats “seek out wool blankets and other clothing as a way to compensate for their shortened nursing time.”

Source: Cat Sense, The Cat Behavior Answer Book, Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015

According to a study conducted by the University of Utrecht's School of Veterinary Medicine, some cats hide in boxes as a way to reduce short-term stress.

Cats crave protection, and a box is an ideal spot for a cat to observe its surroundings.

"Why some seem to prefer too small boxes over just right ones is a mystery though," Bradshaw explained.

Source: Scientific American Special Editions, September 2015, University of Utrecht