Why Does My Pet Follow Me Into the Bathroom?

It’s a scene pet parents know all too well.

You close the bathroom door, sit down for a little me time… and suddenly, there’s a paw scratching at the door.

Or worse, unblinking eyes staring directly at you while you’re doing your business.

Why, exactly, is your pet obsessed with your bathroom routine?

Let’s break down this strangely universal phenomenon.

1. You’re Never Off Duty (and Neither Are They)

From your dog’s perspective, you’re their pack leader. From your cat’s point of view, you’re their loyal staff. Either way, your movement must be monitored at all times. Going behind a closed door? Suspicious. Going behind a closed door without them? Unacceptable.

2. Pack Instincts Run Deep

For dogs, following you everywhere (yes, everywhere) is a deeply ingrained pack behavior. In the wild, animals in a pack rarely separate—it could be dangerous! So when you head off alone to the bathroom, your dog might be thinking, “No way am I letting my human get ambushed while doing their business.”

Thanks, buddy?

3. Bathrooms Smell Like You (A Lot)

Your bathroom is full of fascinating, scent-rich mysteries—from the pile of laundry to your used towels to, well, your own personal aroma. Cats and dogs love familiar smells, and the bathroom is basically your scent’s headquarters.

To them, it’s not weird. It’s a sensory goldmine.

4. They Know You Can’t Escape

Let’s be honest—when you’re in the bathroom, you’re a captive audience. Pets learn quickly that this is one of the few times you’re not moving, scrolling, cleaning, or cooking. It’s the perfect time for attention, head scratches, or simply staring at you with soul-piercing intensity.

5. Curiosity. Always.

Cats in particular cannot stand a closed door. It doesn’t matter if it leads to a broom closet or the bathroom—it must be explored. If they hear it click shut behind you, the mystery deepens. What are you doing? Why can’t I be part of it? Are there snacks?