Cat behaviour

Understanding A Cat’s Body Language

Wouldn’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 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.

• Tail: it’s likely their tail will be still, or flicking slightly at the tip if a cat is anxious. • Posture: they may arch their backs, cower down onto their paws, or crouch if they’re preparing to run away.

If you notice any of these signs, try and provide some reassurance to the cat – or remove the stressor if you know what’s causing them to worry. To help a frazzled feline, you could try using a pheromone diffuser. Pheromone diffusers release calming pheromones that a furry friend will subconsciously associate with a sense of security, helping them feel safe, happy and relaxed.

Signs of a Sad Cat

Cats can be sensitive souls, and it’s absolutely possible for them to feel sad or get depressed after prolonged stress. Here’s what to look out for: • Lacking interest in treats or toys. • Becoming reclusive or demonstrating a heightened fear of strangers. • They’re looking a bit unkempt. Sad cats may stop grooming themselves, and develop a less than catwalk-worthy, shabby coat. • Sleeping a lot.

Sometimes cats show signs of depression when they’re dealing with underlying health issues and may need getting checked over at the vets. Give them plenty of attention and affection (if they’re receptive to this, of course), and make sure there’s enough food, water and space for them to relax.

Signs that a Cat is Angry or Irritated

There are various things that can rub a cat up the wrong way. For example, going in for a belly tickle when they’re just not in the mood. Keep an eye out for body language like this: • Pacing impatiently or yowling to communicate their frustration. • Turning all their attention to the object or person causing their anger or irritation. • Drawing their lips so you can see their teeth. • Crouching with their tail stiffly underneath them, eyes open with slit pupils, and fur standing erect on their backs.

If a puss is giving off these vibes, it’s best to back off and leave them alone. Don’t hold eye contact with the cat either and give them some space to calm down.

How to Show a Cat Affection with Body Language

From treats to ear rubs, there are many methods of reassuring a cat, including with your own body language. You can help a cat relax by: • Blinking at them slowly, and looking into their eyes when they’re feeling sleepy or calm. • Building trust with a cat by allowing them to fall asleep on you. • Letting them rub their cheeks on you – this is usually their way of claiming ownership. • Letting them knead their paws on your lap before they settle down. • Grooming their fur with a glove or brush when they’re already feeling pretty chilled.

We hope these tips will help you better read a cat’s body language so you can provide them with a calming grooming experience.