Another sign of friendliness (and no surprises here) is head bunting and rubbing against your shins. Well that vertical tail is a strong sign that the cat is curious and prepared to give you the benefit of the doubt. You know the cat with the flag-pole tail that comes strolling to meet you. So let’s look at some more body language signs and what they mean. We now understand that in our opening scenario the cat was showing distance increasing signals because she was frightened and wanted you to stay away. Distance Increasing Signals: The cat wants to be left alone.Distance Reducing Signals: These mean the cat is relaxed, curious, and wants to be friends.This makes sense because they can read the shape of the body from some distance away, and thereby avoid entering into tricky situations that could end in injury.įeline body language can be broadly divided into two groups: RELATED: New Kitty on the Block – Introducing a New Cat to Another Cat Image: Barbara Wells via Flickrīody posture is an important way cats tell each other how they are feeling. This isn’t a relaxed cat eager for a fuss, but an anxious, fearful cat in a state of inner conflict. Tail: An agitated tail, especially one flagging to-and-fro is a sign of agitation.This is also why you shouldn’t stare directly at a cat you are trying to befriend: you are actually threatening her, rather than acting friendly. Cats go to great lengths not to get into fights, but a frightened cat backed into a corner will come out fighting in order to protect herself. If a tense looking cat meets your gaze then she is prepared to attack if given provocation. Pupils: In cat language, a direct stare is a challenge to a fight.Flattened back against the muzzle means the cat is anticipating trouble and keeping them out of the way.Drooping down in a neutral position and the cat is relaxed.Bristled forwards are usually a sign of curiosity or that the cat has seen something to hunt.However, some cats just like resting with all four paws beneath them…but more about the vagaries of confusing cat body language shortly. Body Posture: Being hunched up with a lowered head is a sign of vigilance, especially when the cat seems ‘tense’.Looking deeper at the situation above, what are the tell-tale signs that the cat isn’t happy? Practical Cat Body Language Tell-Tale Signs.Learning to interpret and respond to cat-talk can truly enhance your relationship with your feline. They roll onto their backs, or pose like a “J” with their head sideways and upturned, the rest of their body lengthened and still.Įyes can convey relaxation, too, in slow blinks, normal-sized pupils, and soft gazes. They just seem to melt into whatever surface they’re on. Relaxation (Picture Credit: Getty Images)Ĭat parents have all seen - and envied - the postures of a relaxed cat. They may still strike, however, so be prepared. When you see these signs, stop the activity and give kitty a time-out until their adrenaline calms down. But there are warning signs: Their tail will begin to swish back and forth, ears will twitch forward and back, they may vocalize, or they might turn their head toward your hand. Overstimulated cats sometimes respond with a burst of energy directed at the nearest object - maybe you. Many pet parents end up bewildered - and with a few scratches - by a “sudden” attack during a play, petting, or brushing session. Over Stimulation (Picture Credit: SAMUEL KUBANI/AFP/Getty Images) Obviously a kitty lying on their side but unresponsive or breathing funny needs immediate medical attention. Look for half-closed eyes, downcast ears, or a blank expression. They may pace back and forth, sigh, or talk to you as if to say, “I need something to do.” Illness (Picture Credit: Getty Images)Ī crouched body and tucked tail may mean your kitty is in pain or ill. Their tail might be low, at “half-mast,” or swishing slowly back and forth, telling you, “I’m not happy.” If your kitty is bored, they may groom constantly, with long, intense strokes. A cat in this pose is ready to - but may or may not - attack. Offensive aggression is the “ Halloween Cat” - hair standing up, back and tail arched, pupils huge, tongue curled, hissing or yowling. Stay several feet away and speak softly until they calm down - and let them come to you for reassurance afterward. If you see your cat in this position, don’t approach. If the threat continues, they may launch an attack. Their ears will be flattened, pupils dilated, and they may be hissing. They might be curled up in a ball, rolled to one side, tail tucked in close. Aggression (Photo by BSIP/UIG via Getty Images)Īggression can be defensive or offensive.Ī defensive cat is fearful, and reacting to a threat. Bright eyes, perked up ears, and forward-facing whiskers mean they’re ready for some interaction.
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