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My cat meows and rubs face in basement. Is it safe to keep him there?

Updated on September 23, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 11 lbs

I have a 6 year old male cat that I've had for the past year almost. He is neutered and has all the required shots. We let him upstairs during the day but we keep him in the basement at night, where his food, water and kitty litter is. He has generally been fine in temper but he definitely meows a lot when the basement door is closed and he rubs his face on everything, not just doorways, but anything with an edge. Is it okay to keep him in the basement? Our family just wanted to keep him secure.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Debi Matlack

Veterinary Technician

Published on February 15, 2017

It sounds like he's lonely and wants to be closer to people as much as he can. If he can still have access to the basement, try letting him stay upstairs more. The rubbing is a way of marking what is 'his', the cheeks have scent glands that he and other cats can smell.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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