Reasons Why Cats Love ‘Cat-Bombing’ Yoga Classes and Video Calls

Whether it be staring into space, knocking things off tables, or nighttime zoomies that seem to come out of nowhere, our kitties can behave in some strange ways. Perhaps one of the most endearing (and confusing) quirks is ‘cat-bombing’—when your fur friend decides to join you mid-yoga session or when you’re on a video call. While this behavior can be cute, it’s not always ideal when you’re trying to unwind with yoga or participating in a video meeting. Curious to learn why Mr Whiskers loves ‘cat-bombing’? Cat in a Flat explains why your kitty likes joining you on the yoga mat or in your video calls.

Why does my cat like to do yoga with me?

Why does my cat like to do yoga with me? You’ve probably noticed that your furry friend is an incredibly agile creature. Most felines have a very specific anatomy that allows them to run, leap, and turn at high speeds. Remember that your tiny house tiger isn’t that far removed from their wilder ancestors. Mr Whiskers still maintains many of the skills needed for climbing, hunting, and surviving in the wild. So, it’s not much of a stretch (pun intended) to assume that your cat would be great at yoga. 

There could be a few reasons why your fur friend likes ‘cat-bombing’ you during yoga by joining you in a posture or lying on the mat. 

Your cat loves your scent and space

Felines have an excellent sense of smell and can pick up on odors our human noses can’t. You also have a very particular scent for your kitty—one they associate with comfort and happiness. This is one of the reasons why your fur friend likes sleeping on your laundry, or even on you! So, you should see it as a compliment when your fur friend is ‘cat-bombing’ you on the yoga mat. Just be careful about lighting any candles or incense that might bother your furry friend. Lavender, peppermint, or vanilla are all cat-friendly scents. 

Your cat loves the sense of calm

While it is possible to work up a sweat doing yoga, it is in general a calming activity. Mr Whiskers is probably picking up on that and finds the slow, steady movements relaxing! Even more so if you like playing soothing music while you do it. 

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Your kitty is curious

Our furry friends are very curious by nature—which is why it’s important to keep hazardous items out of paw’s reach. Your kitty might be ‘cat-bombing’ you because they find your actions odd or think they look playful. Many yoga positions are also close to the ground, so Mr Whiskers is probably delighted to have you more at their level too! 

Your mat is comfy

Beyond smelling like you, your fur friend might enjoy lying on your yoga mat because it’s comfy and warm. Try cutting another mat into smaller cat-sized sections and placing these around your mat for your feline to lie on while you practice yoga. 

Why is my cat ‘cat-bombing’ my video calls?

Why is my cat ‘cat-bombing’ my video calls? The internet is full of hilarious videos of felines showing up onscreen when they’re not supposed to. It might seem like your fur friend is content to ignore you, up until the moment you get on a video call. Then they start ‘cat-bombing’ like it’s their job! While it can be charming for Mr Whiskers to ‘cat-bomb’ a video call while you’re away and your pet sitter is caring for them, other times it can be annoying. We may never completely understand what cats are thinking, but there are a few possibilities for why they like ‘cat-bombing’.

Your cat wants attention

It’s possible your fur friend feels neglected when your attention is directed at a screen instead of them. And what’s the best way to get your attention back? ‘Cat-bombing’ by standing directly in front of your computer of course! 

Your voice and energy change

When you are on a video call, it’s only natural for your voice and demeanor to adjust to whoever you’re talking to. Your kitty might find this odd and simply wants to investigate what’s making you behave (to them) so weirdly. 

They’re attracted to movement

Your fur friend might be curious about the movement they see on your screen and want to know more! Hence, Mr Whiskers will try ‘cat-bombing’ as if they want to climb inside the screen. Hearing another person’s voice might also grab your kitty’s attention. 

Your set-up becomes their territory

Felines are very territorial, hence they sometimes struggle to adjust to a new baby or a new kitty in the family. Your cat might be ‘cat-bombing’ you because they see the area where you take your video calls as theirs. 

How to prevent my cat from ‘cat-bombing’ my calls

If your fur friend showing up in all your video calls has gone from cute to aggravating, there are a few things you can try to prevent it. However, NEVER punish your kitty for ‘cat-bombing’. This will only make them distrust or feel afraid of you. Furthermore, Mr Whiskers won’t understand why you’re punishing them. They just want to be nearby or get your attention! 

Here are a few things you can try if you don’t want your fur friend ‘cat-bombing’ you during video calls: 

• Give them attention before and after the call. Set aside fifteen minutes to play and spend time with them, especially beforehand. Put out a puzzle feeder for your kitty to solve while you’re in your video call. This will help keep them distracted. 
• Remove access to your workspace. This means always making it off-limits, not just when you’re working or on a call. Your fur friend may take time to adjust to not being allowed in that space, but eventually they’ll understand it’s a no-go zone for them. 
• Provide a dedicated area for your cat. Maybe it’s not possible to keep your fur friend out of your space, or perhaps you enjoy having them there (just not on your Zoom calls). Help prevent ‘cat-bombing’ by providing a designated space nearby. Place a cat tree next to your desk, or a comfy bed behind your screen. Leave out self-play toys too so your furry friend can keep themselves entertained. This will make your feline feel like they are a cherished part of your daily routine. 

Want to learn more about quirky kitty behavior? Check out our blog posts explaining why your cat follows you to the bathroom and what your fur friend gets up to when you’re not around.