Understanding Your Cat’s Non-Verbal Communication

Cats have sophisticated communication methods that owners can learn to interpret to strengthen the human-cat bond further and ensure all of their needs are met. As a cattery, nobody knows this better than we do. This guide aims to help cat owners understand the various signals their pet may exhibit through posture, tail position, ear movement, eye contact and vocalisations.

How Crucial is Context?

When considering feline body language, it is imperative to examine the overall context. A singular gesture or stance can have varying implications depending on the circumstances. For instance, an elevated tail commonly conveys a happy mood but together with other indications, may suggest irritation or apprehension.

Cat Emotions and Their Associated Cues

Content and Relaxed

When a cat is feeling happy and at ease, you may notice its tail held high with a slight curve at the tip, indicating confidence and contentment. Its ears will be forward and slightly to the side, demonstrating relaxation and curiosity. Slow blinking, often referred to as “cat kisses,” signals trust and affection, while a relaxed, loose body posture signifies comfort. Gentle purring is another regular indication of contentment, though it is important to consider the context, as cats may also purr when under stress or in pain. Additionally, kneading with the paws is a behaviour rooted in kittenhood that denotes safety and security.

• Tail held high with a slight curve at the tip
• Ears forward and slightly to the side
• Slow blinking (often called “cat kisses”)
• Relaxed, loose body posture
• Gentle purring
• Kneading with their paws

Friendly and Affectionate

A cat seeking interaction or showing affection may display its tail in an upright position with a slight curve at the tip, resembling a question mark, often signifying friendliness and approachability. They may rub against individuals or objects, marking their territory with scent while strengthening the interpersonal bond. Gentle head contact, also referred to as “bunting”, demonstrates trust and affection, with purring combined with additional friendly gestures signalling happiness. Presentation of the ventral region can indicate trust, although this does not invariably constitute an invitation for stroking of the belly area, as certain cats may become defensive if their abdomen is touched.

• Tail straight up with a slight hook at the end (like a question mark)
• Rubbing against you or objects
• Gentle head-butting
• Purring combined with other friendly behaviours
• Presenting their belly (though this isn’t always an invitation for belly rubs)

Alert and Curious

When a cat’s attention is caught, their ears will swivel and point forward, demonstrating they are alert and trying to detect sounds from the environment. Their whiskers will point forward, indicating curiosity and interest in something particular. Eyes wide open with normally sized pupils exemplify focus without concern, and a tail held horizontally or slightly raised reflects a curious and relaxed disposition.

• Ears swivelling and pointed forward
• Whiskers pointed forward
• Eyes wide open with normal-sized pupils
• Tail held horizontally or slightly raised

Anxious or Fearful

There are several indicators that a cat may be feeling stressed or frightened. Adopting a crouched posture close to the ground represents an attempt to make itself smaller and appear less threatening. Ears will be flattened against the head, implying fear or a sense of being threatened. Dilated pupils are a common sign of anxiety or fear, especially when combined with flattened ears and a crouched posture. A tail tucked in or held close to the body signifies fear and a desire to retreat or hide. Cats often seek high places or secluded hiding spots when feeling anxious in order to feel safe and observe their surroundings from a place of security. Excessive self-grooming could represent a coping mechanism for dealing with stress and unease. Such behaviours may suggest that the cat feels apprehensive or fearful.

• Crouching low to the ground
• Ears flattened against the head
• Dilated pupils
• Tail tucked or held close to the body
• Hiding or seeking high places
• Excessive grooming or over-grooming

Agitated or Annoyed

A cat showing signs of irritation may display the following behaviours. The tail may swing rapidly from side to side, indicating annoyance or frustration. The ears may rotate to the side or back, suggesting an on-edge demeanour where interaction is unwelcome. Narrowed pupils could imply annoyance or aggression, frequently accompanied by tense body language. Low growling or hissing vocalisations unambiguously convey annoyance or a sense of threat. Twitching of the skin, particularly along the back, may denote agitation or overstimulation.

• Tail swishing back and forth
• Ears turned sideways or back
• Narrow pupils
• Low growling or hissing
• Skin twitching, especially along the back

Aggressive or Defensive

When cats exhibit behaviours of feeling threatened, their posture and physical signals can include an arched back with fur standing on end, making their size appear larger and more intimidating. Their tail will be puffed up, suggesting a state of fear or readiness to defend themselves, whilst their ears will be flattened against the head so as to protect the ears should a confrontation occur. Dilated pupils demonstrate heightened alertness as the cat prepares for a potential confrontation. Vocal warnings such as hissing, growling or yowling signify that the cat feels under threat and may attack if provoked. Additionally, maintaining a direct and intense stare can act as a challenge or warning to create distance.

• Arched back with fur standing on end
• Tail puffed up
• Ears flattened against the head
• Dilated pupils
• Hissing, growling, or yowling
• Direct, intense stare

Playful

When in a playful mood, a cat may display certain characteristics. Their ears will be positioned forward, demonstrating engagement and interest in play. The tail will be held straight up or gently swaying from side to side, signalling excitement and preparedness to leap or chase. A crouched body posture, primed to pounce, shows a readiness to engage in playful activity. Dilated pupils also indicate a state of excitement and anticipation. Common vocalisations accompanying a playful mood include chirping or trilling sounds.

• Ears pointed forward
• Tail straight up or gently swishing
• Crouching posture (preparing to pounce)
• Dilated pupils (from excitement)
• Playful vocalisations (chirps or trills)

In Pain or Unwell

There are several signs that a cat may be experiencing pain or discomfort. Adopting a hunched posture can be a means of protection, especially if it is reluctant to move freely. Squinting of the eyes is also commonly seen when a cat feels unwell and can be accompanied by a reduction in appetite. Ears positioned flat against the head or held to the side may indicate that a cat is feeling discomfort or is otherwise unwell. Alterations to a cat’s normal vocalisations, whether increased or decreased, can act as a signal that its health has changed. Changes to eating habits or litter tray usage, such as decreased appetite or irregular litter tray visits, may also point towards underlying health issues that merit examination by a veterinarian.

• Hunched posture
• Squinted eyes
• Ears held flat or to the side
• Changes in vocalisation (more or less than usual)
• Changes in eating or litter box habits

Respecting Your Cat’s Communication

It is imperative that once you have learned to decipher your cat’s body language that you respect what they’re telling you. If your cat exhibits indications of unease or strain, it is best to give them some distance and refrain from forcing interactions. Conversely, when one’s cat displays happy body language, responding with considerate focus and fondness is suitable.

Practical Tips for Better Understanding

Observing Your Cat’s Behaviour: Spend time watching your cat in various situations to have a better understanding of their unique body language. Observe how they react to different stimuli and situations.

Learning from Multiple Cats: If you have more than one cat, observe both their differences and similarities in body language. Each cat is unique, and their communication styles differ.

Consulting Resources: There are several books, websites, and videos dedicated to understanding cat behaviour. Use these resources to broaden your knowledge and improve your ability to interpret your cat’s cues.

Seeking Professional Help: If you’re having problems understanding your cat’s behaviour or if they exhibit persistent signs of stress, consult a veterinarian or a cat behaviourist.

Understanding your cat’s body language takes time and practice, but it’s a valuable skill that can greatly improve your relationship with your feline companion. By paying attention to these subtle cues, you’ll be better equipped to meet your cat’s needs and ensure their happiness and well-being.

FAQs

Why does my cat’s tail puff up?

A: A puffed-up tail often indicates fear or aggression. Your cat is trying to appear larger and more intimidating to potential threats.

What does it mean when my cat slow blinks at me?

A: Slow blinking, or “cat kisses,” is a sign of trust and affection. Your cat is showing that they feel safe and comfortable around you.

Why does my cat swish their tail back and forth?

A: Tail swishing can signal frustration or impending aggression. It’s a sign that your cat is annoyed or focused on something.

How can I tell if my cat is stressed?

A: Signs of stress in cats include excessive grooming, hiding more than usual, changes in eating or litter box habits, and increased vocalisation. Monitor your cat’s behaviour for these indicators.

What should I do if my cat hisses or growls?

A: Hissing or growling are clear signs that your cat feels threatened. Give them space and avoid forcing interactions until they feel more comfortable.

How can I improve my understanding of my cat’s body language?

A: Spend time observing your cat, learn from multiple cats, consult resources, and seek professional help if needed. Practice and patience are key to understanding your cat’s communication.

By taking the time to understand and respect your cat’s body language, you can build a stronger, more trusting relationship with your feline friend. Remember, every cat is unique, and learning to interpret their signals will help you provide the best care possible.