Is there a little cat at your home that, the moment you take off your clothes, rushes to lie on top of them? Your slippers become its prized treasures, and that carefully folded pile of clothes? In the blink of an eye, it’s already claimed them as its own. Don’t be upset—here’s why…
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What your cat does with your clothes
The moment you take off your clothes, it immediately lies on them, keeping a close eye on your every move. Some cats knead, roll around, or rub their head or chin on your garments. Others love clutching slippers to knead or scratch them, even doing a playful “bunny kick.” Of course, some cats simply lie on the clothes. Some may even grab your underwear and run around with it, or stash your socks in their cat bed.
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It’s all about the scent
Cats possess superpowered noses—over 14 times more sensitive than humans—and can pinpoint their favorite scents with precision. Your clothes, especially ones you’ve worn, act as a unique safety signal to your cat. To them, your clothes and shoes represent your presence, offering comfort and easing anxiety like a pacifier. That’s why they perform those behaviors on your belongings.
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Comfort factor
Some cat owners might notice that even freshly washed, neatly folded clothes or bed linens get immediately claimed by their cats. Why? It’s not just your scent—they are drawn to the soft, snug, enveloping texture. The twist is, even freshly washed clothes carry your scent in layers: the top note is the laundry detergent; as you wear it, your body odor blends with the detergent—this is the heart note; eventually, when the detergent fades, only your natural scent remains—the base note. Cats are familiar with and fascinated by every stage of your scent.
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Claiming territory
Cats also mark their owners with their scent to assert ownership to other cats, signaling “this human is mine—stay away.” If you bring in a new or unfamiliar scent that your cat has never encountered, it will quickly investigate, mark, and claim it.
So, fellow cat lovers, have you ever used something to “claim” someone—like your boyfriend or girlfriend—or to let others know they’re taken? Share your stories in the comments below!
