Feline behavior is more complex and subtle than dogs’ body language. That’s why, in order to communicate with your cat, it is very important to learn how to interpret their rich body language. In today’s article, we explain the most important aspects of feline language and give you some keys to understanding your cat.
Index:
- The tail, the most important part of feline language
- Understanding cats’ body language: eyes and ears
- Keys to decoding your cat’s gestures
The Tail, the Most Important Part of Feline Language
Cats use their whole body to communicate. However, our little friends’ tails can give us more information about their mood than other parts of their body.
Learn to interpret your feline’s body language by translating their tail movements:
- Curved tail with gentle swaying. When cats arch their tails in a question mark shape or softly move the tip, it means they feel playful.
- Upright, moving tail. If your cat raises their tail and flicks it insistently when you try to pet them, it’s better to step back: you could end up with a scratch.
- Puffed-up tail. Although it may look funny, when a cat puffs up their tail, making it look fluffier than usual, it means they are very scared or preparing to attack.
- Hidden tail. Cats tuck their tails between their legs as a sign of anxiety or submission. This is common when they face a new environment or a new family member.
- Tail wrapped around the body. This is one of the most positive signs of feline body language. It means they feel comfortable and relaxed.
Understanding Cats’ Body Language: Eyes and Ears
Besides the tail, other body parts play an important role in interpreting feline language. To understand your little cat, you need to learn how to read ear positions and eye expressions.
Cats move their ears depending on their mood. Pay attention to the following positions:
- Ears gently forward. Your cat feels curious, happy, and playful.
- Ears stiff and upright. Something has caught your cat’s attention, and they are on alert.
- Flat ears pointing backward. Your furry friend is scared or very angry. This ear position is often accompanied by hissing or growling.
The eyes are another key part of feline language. Here’s what your cat means with their eye expressions:
- Slow blinking. Slow blinks are a feline sign of affection. They’re like “air kisses” in cat behavior.
- Dilated pupils. If your cat is playing or preparing to attack, dilated pupils indicate excitement. If combined with aggressive sounds or defensive gestures, it means fear.
- Narrow pupils. Half-closed eyes and slit pupils are a clear sign of irritation.
Keys to Decoding Your Cat’s Gestures
Cats’ body language goes beyond tail, eyes, and ears. To better understand your cat, study the meaning of these postures:
- Lying on their back with belly exposed. This means your cat feels comfortable and enjoys your company. But don’t try to pet their belly unless you want a swipe.
- Arched back. If your kitty approaches softly with an arched back, they want you to pet them. But if their fur is bristled too, they are scared or angry.
- Curling up. When a cat curls up, it means they are resting and feel safe and secure.
- Rubbing against you. Cats rub against objects and people to mark territory, not as a sign of affection.
- Licking. Cats show affection by licking skin, hair, and even nibbling the clothes of their loved ones.
We can say that to live peacefully and harmoniously with a cat, it is essential to recognize their emotions by interpreting their body language. Cats are very intelligent animals with strong personalities. If you learn to decode your cat’s complex gestures, you will improve your relationship and enjoy more intimate and fluid communication.
