What is Your Cat Thinking?
Wouldn’t be just love it sometimes if our cats could talk? Sadly that will never be the case, but it is possible to get an idea of what is running through your cat’s mind by observing and understanding their body language.
Purring
Purring is generally done when a cat is feeling happy, relaxed and content. Cats also purr sometimes when they are feeling a little threatened and use purring as a way to try and befriend the enemy – for example the vet. They also purr when they want something like food, water or to be let outside.
Head Butt
The gentle head butt that cats do is a sign of affection. They do it to their owners to show their devotion. Don’t confuse it with when a cat rubs their face against you as this is more of a territorial gesture.
Paw Swiping
Cats will often do this at their owners to get their attention. Their claws will be retracted so it is not meant as an aggressive move. It is a non-aggressive way for a cat to show displeasure. When a swipe is made with extended claws, this is a sign of aggression and will be done when a cat feels threatened.
Kneading
This is a habit from birth when kneading their mother resulted in the flow of milk. It is a sign of total happiness and contentment when a cat does this on your lap or on the place it is about to sit down.
Tail Movement
When the tail is high and erect, this shows energy and confidence. When it moves slowly around in a wide arc motion it serves as a warning to the person or thing nearby that the cat is not happy with. Jerky movement indicate the cat is playing, hunting or maybe even about to pounce. Very small flicks of the tail show your cat is stressed or upset.
Meowing
Listen closely and you will be able to hear differences in your cats meowing depending on what they are doing. Asking for food, calling out to you or showing contentment often are accompanied with different sounds.
Rubbing Against Your Legs
Although sometimes annoying, this is a sign of affection and also ownership.
Whisker Position
When pointed forward and down, your cat is curious and wants to play. When they are pinned back your cat is scared. When they are very far forward and tilted up your cat is showing aggression.
If you pay close attention to your cat’s movements and behavior, you will pick up on a lot of messages and signals and will being to understand what your cat is thinking.
