Cat lovers and owners are all too familiar with the common feline fascination with computer keyboards. It’s a scene many of us have experienced: you sit down at your desk ready to get some work done, only to have your cat suddenly leap up onto the keyboard, walking back and forth across the keys and even curling up for a nap. But why are keyboards such irresistible magnets for our furry friends?
This peculiar cat behavior has inspired many lighthearted memes and viral videos. But there are also practical implications for cat owners trying to manage the potential disruption. Understanding the psychology behind this quirky cat obsession can help us better accommodate both human work and feline play.
Cats’ Natural Curiosity
Cats are inherently curious creatures who like to explore new objects that capture their interest. This trait likely stems from their predatory instincts, as cats use their senses to investigate unknown items in their surroundings (https://books.google.com/books?id=K9VQCgAAQBAJ&pg=PA93&lpg=PA93&dq=%22cats+explore+new+objects%22&source=bl&ots=fAE2PDcJia&sig=ACfU3U2mlaMFJzY_8Lb_1yBAGQft_tMX5w&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiUxujy09WDAxWEq5UCHSDDCqsQ6AF6BAgJEAM). Keyboards, with their shifting keys and clicking sounds, present novel stimuli that naturally catch cats’ attention.
As curious creatures, cats are drawn to explore keyboards through sight, sound, touch, and even taste. The visual motion of keys going up and down is difficult for cats to resist investigating. The clicking sounds and vibrations from typing also provide intriguing sensory input for cats. And of course, cats love cozying up to the warmth generated by operating keyboards and computer equipment.
Sounds and Movements of Typing
Keyboard typing produces a combination of sounds and movements that can intrigue curious cats. The repetitive clicks of the keys going up and down are similar to sounds that attract cats in nature, like birds chirping or rodents scurrying. According to research, cats are drawn to high-pitched sounds like squeaking or chirping [1]. The tapping sounds of typing likely remind them of prey they would hunt. Cats also seem fascinated by repetitive motions, such as fingers moving quickly across a keyboard. Their natural predatory instincts make them inclined to watch and pounce on fast movements.
Additionally, the sounds and motions of typing are unpredictable, which further fuels cats’ curiosity. Unlike the constant hum of appliances, typing patterns change as keys are pressed in different combinations. This unpredictability compels cats to investigate the source of the intriguing sounds and motions.
Keyboards as Warm Lounging Spots
One of the main reasons cats like to lounge on keyboards is that laptops give off heat that cats find enjoyable. As obligate carnivores with a lower body temperature than humans, cats are attracted to warm places that allow them to conserve energy. According to Catster, cats love curling up in warm places for comfort when not feeling well[1]. Laptops and computer keyboards generate heat from the internal components and serve as ready-made warm spots for cats to lounge. Cats enjoy the warmth and may even associate it with the comfort of their mother’s body heat as kittens.
In addition, keyboards provide cats a warm place to lounge near their owners as a social activity. As Our Cats’ World explains, cats like being around the natural warmth of their owners[2]. Lounging on a computer while the owner is working allows a cat to enjoy both a warm spot and quality time together. The opportunity to lounge near their beloved owner is part of what draws cats to keyboards.
Typing Interferes with Cat Owners
One of the most common complaints from cat owners is the distraction caused when kitty walks across the keyboard while their human is trying to work. This sudden appearance in the owner’s line of sight understandably breaks their concentration. But often this behavior comes from a place of affection – cats crave the attention of their favorite people.
Cats are highly social creatures who bond closely with their humans. So when an owner has been focused on work at the computer for a prolonged time, the cat may take it upon themselves to divert that attention back to them. Walking on the keys is an effective way to suddenly block the screen and elicit a response.
While many owners find this mildly frustrating in the moment, it’s important to remember the motivation is one of love. Providing playtime and affection before settling into work can help preempt the interruptions. And taking occasional breaks to reconnect with kitty can reassure them their human still cares.
Conclusion
To re-state the question – do cats like keyboard typing? After reviewing cats’ natural curiosity, the sounds and movements of typing, keyboards as warm lounging spots, and how typing can interfere with cat owners, the evidence points to an overall “yes.” Cats do seem to like keyboards and the typing happening on them, even if that affinity can cause annoyed owners. The sounds and motions attract their curiosity. The heat allures them to rest. Ultimately, cats see keyboards as intriguing objects of play and comfort.
In summary, key points show that cats are drawn to keyboards due to their innate curiosity, the typing sounds and motions, the warmth, and cozy spaces to lounge. However, the feline interest frequently interrupts owners trying to work. While amusing at first, owners may find it increasingly disruptive.
In conclusion, the answer is yes – cats do like keyboard typing, though owners may have a love-hate relationship with this fascination. With patience and providing alternative spaces for cat naps and play, owners can better share their work computers with their curious felines.
Tips for Cat Owners
Cats are naturally curious creatures who like to explore and play. This can lead them to walk across keyboards, interfere with work, and even send strange messages. While cute, this keyboard walking can be disruptive for owners. Instead of scolding cats, there are more positive ways to redirect their energy.
Provide alternative stimulating surfaces and objects for your cat. Place cardboard boxes, cat trees, toys, and scratching posts in spaces near your work area. Giving them appropriate scratching surfaces and playthings can satisfy their curiosity. Cats also love cozy beds and heated pads, which you can place near your desk.
If your cat persists in walking on the keyboard, gently pick them up and move them to a different space. You can also try startling sounds like shaking a can filled with pennies to deter them. Just be sure not to punish or yell at a cat, which is ineffective. Stay patient and keep gently redirecting them.
By giving cats stimulating activities and responding calmly, owners can redirect keyboard walking and establish boundaries.
Cats and Technology
As curious and playful creatures, cats often show interest in interacting with technology designed for humans. Although keyboards, mice, screens and other devices are made for people, cats still find ways to engage with them based on sight, sound, and motion.
Feline companions have been known to walk across keyboards and paw at mice during work calls or typing sessions. Some cats even try swatting at on-screen animations. While this can be disruptive for owners, it comes from a cat’s natural desire to hunt, play and explore.
To satisfy this curiosity in a less bothersome way, technology made for cats offers interactive apps, games and toys. Popular options include foods dispensers like the Whisker Feeder Robot and motion toys like the Cat Dancer. Cats may also enjoy chasing lights from laser pointers or watching videos designed for feline entertainment.
Ultimately, many cats are fascinated by technology not made for them. By providing stimulating high-tech toys, owners can direct feline curiosity in less disruptive yet enriching directions.
Notable Viral Cat Keyboard Moments
Cats on keyboards have become an iconic internet meme, with many famous viral videos and photos capturing felines interacting with computer keyboards in silly or chaotic ways. Some of the most well-known viral cat keyboard moments include:
The original Keyboard Cat, a 1984 clip of “Fatso” the cat appearing to play a keyboard that went massively viral in 2007. This launched the meme and inspired countless remixes and parodies.
Videos of cats walking back and forth on keyboards, pawing at keys, and generally wreaking adorable havoc as their owners try to work. TikTok and YouTube are full of these entertaining moments.
Photos of cats cosily curled up and napping on top of keyboards, preventing their human from being able to type. These snapshots tend to spark “aww!” reactions and emphasize cats’ love of warm, compact spaces.
Clips of cats startling and “typing” gibberish by pouncing on keyboards or swatting randomly at keys. The seeming nonsense typed by cats is often played for comic effect.
Whether tapping away or just snoozing nearby, famous internet cats on keyboards exemplify the collision between feline curiosity and human technology. Their antics humorously illustrate the challenges of sharing space and objects with our furry companions.
Cats Enhance Workplace Productivity?
Having an office cat can provide some surprising productivity benefits, though there are also potential downsides. On the plus side, interacting with pets at work has been shown to reduce stress and boost morale. Lower stress can lead to higher engagement, creativity, and performance. Cats can also encourage employees to take small breaks from work which can improve focus when they return to tasks.
However, kitties wandering on keyboards during video calls or important tasks can certainly disrupt work. Some employees may also be allergic to or afraid of cats. And no one wants surprises in their coffee mug from a curious cat visitor!
The key is setting some boundaries. Giving cats a designated play area near employees’ desks could enable fun cat interaction without constant feline stomping across keyboards. With some preparation and training, office cats can be an engaging addition that makes the workday a little brighter.