Understanding A Cat’s Body Language
W
ouldn’t it be great if we could know what cats are thinking? Well, we might not be able to read their minds, but they certainly give us some clues via their body language! Cats often use body language to communicate their mood to people, as well as other animals. It can even help you to spot the signs they might be feeling unwell. In this guide, the pet wellness experts at Itch Pet are here to give you the lowdown on what a cat’s body language is telling you.
Signs of a Happy Cat When a kitty is neutral, happy or relaxed, you might pick up on some of the following signs (often accompanied by purring): • Sitting on their hind legs, with front 20 | Total Grooming Magazine
paws neatly together and upright ears, which might rotate in response to certain sounds. • Lying down with their paws tucked underneath their chest, and eyes closed or slowly blinking if they’re feeling drowsy. • Sleeping on their back, with bellies exposed and paws in the air or by their sides – this is one fully reclined feline!
Signs that a Cat is Playful or Alert If a cat is in a playful mood or feeling alert, here are the key things to look out for: • Playful behaviour often mimics hunting behaviour in cats, so they may have their ears forward and their pupils slightly dilated, with whiskers forward too. • A cat will have a raised tail while
playing, and might crouch down to stalk their prey (even if it’s a toy) before swinging out with their paws. You can play some great games with a cat when they’re in this sort of mood. Just be careful not to get clawed midplayful swipe!
Signs that a Cat is Anxious or Scared If a cat is feeling fearful, anxious or worried, be on the lookout for the following: • Eyes: their pupils will be dilated and round or oval in shape, with no blinking. • Ears: these may be swivelling quickly to catch any noise, or even flattened back. • Whiskers: pulled back, to the side, or bristling when they’re afraid of something.
