Cats may appear to be mysterious creatures who are difficult to read, but they are constantly communicating with humans. Cats can tell us if they’re comfortable, fearful, angry, or even ready to play via their body language and facial expressions.
“Cats are continuously communicating their pleasure, unhappiness, boredom, fear, or disease,” said holistic cat behaviorist and celebrity cat consultant Layla Morgan. “However, it can be complex and easily ignored if humans don’t take the time to notice.”
It’s particularly important to be able to read your cat’s mood when taking him outside. If your cat appears to be having a good time, you may wish to extend your hike and explore new territory, but if your cat appears afraid or on edge, it’s time to return home.
The drawings below will assist you in better understanding feline nonverbal cues. When considering a situation, however, additional considerations such as the location, your cat’s personality, and your cat’s comfort level with being tied and outdoors must all be considered.
Tail up
Flat-furred tails and tails carried high with a question mark-like curvature at the tip are both signs of a playful, friendly cat.
Tail down
When a cat’s tail is drooping low to the ground, it may be an indication that he feels threatened and may claw out in defense. If you have a cat, it’s crucial that you know what kind of tail-carrying habits they’re accustomed to.
Tail tucked in between the legs
This tail stance indicates worry or anxiety. Something in the surroundings is probably bothering your pet.
Straight tail, fur on end
If your cat’s tail grows large and bushy all of a sudden, you’ve got a very upset animal on your hands. In order to appear larger and frighten away the perceived threat, cats puff out like this.
Tail moving slowly back and forth
A cat’s slow-swishing tail shows curiosity, and the animal’s attention may be attracted to something specific, such as an insect. Just before your cat pounces, you may detect this tail movement.
Thrashing tail
When a cat’s tail is whipping back and forth quickly or slapping the ground, this means that the animal is angry and may act violently.
Ears forward
The ears of a happy, comfortable, or lively cat point up and slightly forward.
Ears straight up
When a cat’s ears perk up like this, something has attracted his eye.
Ears angled and flattened
The ears on this feline reflect annoyance, anxiety, or fear.
Ears turned back or flat
When a cat’s ears fall back like this, it’s a solid sign that it’s scared or furious, and it’s likely that it’ll act aggressively.
Eyes in alert and blinking
This kitty is taking in all that is going on around him.
Pupils squeezed together
This could suggest that a cat is disturbed, although cats’ pupils constrict in a stronger light as well.
Enlarged pupils
When a cat is scared or angry, its pupils will dilate. In low light, however, pupils may become bigger either.
Slow blinking
This behavior implies that a cat is secure and at ease. In fact, a cat’s slow blink is thought to be a manner of smiling at you.
Which of your pet’s body language was familiar to you?
