Understanding Cat Body Language: What Your Cat is Telling You

Cats do not talk, but still keep talking to us. They do it employing body, eyes, ears, tail, and even whiskers. Once you are taught on how to interpret these signs, you will know what your cat is experiencing. This enables you to provide them with what they require and maintains your relationship strong. This are some of the most notorious ways to express how cats feel.

The tail tells a story

Tail of a cat is similar to a flag indicating their mood-

Tail up high-Your cat is in a good mood and feels self-confident. He or she may even walk on his/her tail as a mini flag.

Tail curled at the tip-Playful and interested.

Tail low or tucked= Nervous, unsure, or maybe scared.

Tail puffed up-Extremely afraid or attempting to appear substantial, in order to defend themselves.

Tail flicking quickly-Getting cross or about to attack. This is one of the ways that you should stop petting.

Eyes and ears speak volumes

Notice the eyes of your cat and see how much can tell them. Notice their ears as well.

Slow blinking-That is an indication that your cat trusts you. It is like a kiss of a kitty. To say, “I love you” you can slow blink back.

Wide pupils-This may be excitement (as in case of play) or fear. To know which of their body it is, look at the rest of it.

 Ears forward - Interested and alert.

 Ears turning sideways or back-Unsure, worried, or annoyed.

Ears flat against the head-Frightened or angry. Space to be given to them.

Whiskers are mood indicators too

Whiskers are pretty telling although most people never give it a thought.

 Whiskers thrust towards: Curiosity, excitement or hunting.

 Whiskers drawn away across the face: Nervous or frightened.

Look at their whole body

 Half-relaxed body, lying on the side, or paws tucked under- feels safe and calm.

Back arched, fur standing up-Attempting to be larger since they are frightened or shocked.

Crouched low with wide eyes-Being not sure or observing something closely, playful or cautious.

Be cautious in case your cat rolls over to expose his or her stomach. This would mean a lot to many cats that they trust you, not necessarily an offer of belly rub. In trying, they may mellowly latch their bite or pincer on the hand. You will always need to be keen on the reaction of your cat.

Listen for sounds too

Although this post is on body language, it is worth bearing in mind that sounds count. Whenever there is a soft purr it is a sign of contentment and happiness, although in some cases cats will also purr to console themselves in pain. Growl, hiss or low yowl, This usually signifies, back off, they are upset or scared.

Learn your cat’s personal language

No cat is the same. There are those that like you to scratch the head, yet others do not want their hands touched at all. Some cats are talkative whereas others are silent. Listening to the manner in which your cat will respond to various incidents will teach you how they express happiness, stress, or love in their own ways.

Building a better bond

Once you know what your cat is trying to communicate with you, it becomes so easy to live under the same roof. You will feel when they feel to play, when they are scared and when they feel like just curling up beside you. This will create trust and your cat will feel safe and loved.

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