Why Does My Cat Follow Me Then Run Away? (6 Ways to Prevent)

Even the most well-mannered housecat may sometimes exhibit curious or unexpected behavior. If your cat follows you around the house, only to run away at the last minute, it can be quite puzzling. Fortunately, there are a few possible explanations for why this happens.

In this blog post, I’ll take a look at some of the most common reasons why cats do this and offer tips on how to deal with it. So, why does my cat follow me then run away? Keep reading to find out!

Why Does My Cat Follow Me Then Run Away?

There could be a few reasons why your cat is doing this. Some cats may simply follow their humans around as a form of bonding or companionship, while others may do it because they are seeking attention.

Here I’ll explore some of the reasons why your cat may be following you, and what you can do about it.

1. Lack of Attention

One reason your cat may follow you around and then run away is because they feel they are not receiving enough attention from you. If you are busy with work or other obligations, your cat may become bored and seek out your attention by following you around.

To stop this behavior, try to spend more time playing with your cat and giving them attention when you are home.

2. Fear or Insecurity

Another reason your cat may follow you around and then run away is because they are feeling scared or insecure. If there has been a recent change in their environment, such as a new pet or baby in the house, this could be causing their anxiety.

To stop this behavior, try to create a safe and secure space for your cat where they can feel comfortable and relaxed. This may include providing them with hiding spots, such as a covered litter box or elevated perch where they can watch over their territory.

3. Curiosity

Cats are naturally curious creatures, so it’s not surprising that they would want to follow you around to see what you’re up to. If you are constantly moving around the house or working on projects, your cat may become curious and want to investigate.

To stop this behavior, try to provide your cat with plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied.

4. Separation Anxiety

If you are away from home for long periods of time, your cat may start to experience separation anxiety. This can cause them to follow you around when you are home as they worry that you will leave again.

To stop this behavior, try to spend more time with your cat when you are home and create a routine that they can rely on. This may include feeding them at the same time each day or playing with them before you leave for work.

5. Hunger

Another reason your cat may follow you around is because they are hungry. If their food bowl is empty or they are not getting enough to eat, they will seek out your attention in hopes that you will feed them.

To stop this behavior, make sure you are feeding your cat enough and on a regular schedule. You may also want to try feeding them smaller meals more often throughout the day.

6. Thirst

Like hunger, thirst can also cause your cat to follow you around. If their water bowl is empty or they are not getting enough to drink, they will seek out your attention in hopes that you will give them water.

To stop this behavior, make sure you are refilling their water bowl regularly and providing them with fresh, clean water.

7. Illness

Finally, if your cat is suddenly following you around and then running away, it could be a sign that they are sick or injured. If you notice any other changes in their behavior or appearance, such as vomiting or lethargy, take them to the vet right away.

6 Proven Ways to Stop This Strange Behavior

Now that you know some of the reasons why your cat may be following you around and then running away, here are a few things you can do to stop this behavior:

1. Spend more time playing with your cat

Yes, even though you’re busy, set aside some quality time each day to play with your cat. Try using their favorite toy to entice them, and make sure to praise them when they catch it. This will help them associate you with positive feelings.

2. Create a safe and secure space for your cat

As mentioned above, if your cat is feeling scared or insecure, try to create a safe space for them where they can relax. This may include providing them with hiding spots, such as a covered litter box or elevated perch where they can watch over their territory.

3. Provide your cat with plenty of toys and activities

To keep your curious cat occupied, provide them with plenty of toys and activities. This may include puzzle toys filled with treats or a scratching post for them to scratch.

4. Stick to a routine

If your cat is experiencing separation anxiety, try to stick to a regular routine when you are home. This may include feeding them at the same time each day or playing with them before you leave for work.

5. Feed your cat on a regular schedule

Make sure you are feeding your cat enough and on a regular schedule. You may also want to try feeding them smaller meals more often throughout the day.

6. Refill their water bowl regularly

I know, it seems like a no brainer, but make sure you are regularly refilling your cat’s water bowl. You should also provide them with fresh, clean water.

Conclusion

There are a few reasons why your cat may follow you around and then run away. Some cats do it because they want attention, while others may be bored or seeking companionship.

If your cat is acting this way, there are a few things you can do to help, such as providing them with more toys and activities or spending more time with them.

You can also try keeping them in another room or putting them in their carrier when you’re not home. If your cat seems uncomfortable or scared when they follow you, these methods may help to prevent them from following you around.