Posted on by Barky Boy

Why Do Cats Like Being Slapped On the Bottom So Much? Facts & FAQ

Have you ever noticed how your cat acts when you walk by and slap it on the bottom? Seeing their rear end rise and the resulting meow of approval may seem a bit strange. Of course, cats are quirky creatures that have a lot of strange behaviors. But what is it about being slapped on the bum that they enjoy so much? Well, oddly enough, there are several reasons cats may like this but the main takeaway of their reaction is that the pressure of your hand activates nerve endings. When this happens, the feel-good endorphins are released. However, that isn’t the only reason cats like it. Let’s take a deeper look into this subject so you can better understand your cat and their enjoyment of a good spanking.

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Reasons Why Cats Like Bottom Slapping

Yes, most cats enjoy a nice pat on the bottom. Then again, some cats aren’t fans. Like many things when it comes to felines, it all depends on the cat and its mood.

a hand scratching cat's butt
Image Credit: Christin Hume, Unsplash

Releasing Endorphins

As we mentioned, many believe that patting your cat on the bottom connects to nerve endings near the base of the tail. Stimulating these nerves could be the trigger needed to tell your cat’s brain to release the endorphins dopamine and oxytocin. These feel-good hormones can signal to your cat that this action is pleasurable.

It’s a Way to Bond

Certain cats aren’t big on interaction. Others can’t get enough of it. When you slap your kitty on the butt, they could see this as your way of trying to socialize and bond. Cats are quick learners. If you smack their bottom on a few occasions and then offer a bit of affection afterward, they’ll remember. Then each time you do it, they’ll see it as a way to bond with you more.

Young woman bonding with calico cat bumping rubbing bunting heads
Image Credit: Kristi Blokhin, Shutterstock

Slapping Is Sexually Satisfying

Unaltered kitties have certain times when they are feeling a bit frisky. When an unspayed female cat is in heat, a little slap on the bottom feels good to her. The same can be said for the males. If we’re being honest, even altered cats can get a little frisky and enjoy a nice slap on the bottom.

An Itch Your Cat Can’t Scratch

If you pass by and pop your kitty on the bum and the tail raises, an itch could be the culprit. Yes, cats groom themselves quite well. That doesn’t mean they can reach every spot. When your kitty has an itch near the base of the tail, the stimulation from a slap may feel good.

cat stretching in the wood
Image Credit: Piqsels

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How to Slap Your Cat’s Bottom

Just because your kitty gets happy from a slap to the bottom, that doesn’t mean it can’t hurt or irritate them at times. Yes, there are right and wrong ways to pat your cat’s tush. Let’s go over the basics so you can help your cat feel good without getting your hand clawed off.

  • Offer your kitty a pat on the head or other type of attention before immediately spanking the bum.

  • Hitting too hard can hurt your kitty. Be gentle and pay attention to your cat’s reaction.

  • Stop if your cat tries to move away or shows any sign of discomfort.

  • If your cat isn’t a fan of having their bottom slapped, don’t force it on them.

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Final Thoughts

Slapping your cat’s bottom is a great way to make them feel good and create a bond between the two of you. If you’ve tried this and your cat enjoys it, by all means, share the experience when you have the chance. Keep in mind, however, that not all cats are the same. If your cat reacts negatively to a bottom slap, don’t push it. The last thing you want is for your cat feeling fearful of your actions.

Sources

Featured Image Credit: Zoo Design, Shutterstock

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