Learn the Cat Language
Cats don't talk, but they communicate all the more. They make their meaning clear through subtle body language. Learn the cat language too!
How does my cat communicate?
Cats communicate with their whole body. Their tail, coat, whiskers and ears all play an important role. They also use various sounds to convey messages to each other and to us. What is your cat trying to say? Here are a few examples.
How can I tell if my cat is scared?
- she hides
- she hisses
- she has a puffed-up tail
- ears and whiskers lie flat to the sides of the head
- large pupils
- arched back
- avoiding eye contact
- urinating outside the litter box
- excessive scratching
- meowing from low to high pitch
Approach your cat calmly when she is scared. Crouch down and let her sniff your hands before petting her. Do not pick her up unexpectedly. Distracting her with a toy or leaving her alone in her familiar spot also helps.
How can I tell if my cat is happy?
It is wonderful to see your cat enjoying herself:
- Her tail is pointing straight up.
- She makes a "prrrtt" sound.
- She head-butts you.
- She purrs.
- She sleeps in a fully relaxed position.
- Her tail hangs down.
When your cat gives lots of head-butts, keeps her tail up and makes the "prrrtt" sound, you can do no wrong in her eyes. You are her best friend.
What does my cat do when she is angry?
Anger in cats is often related to irritation, for example when another cat enters her territory. Here is how you can tell you are dealing with an angry cat:
- Bristled fur on shoulders and back.
- Hard lashing of the tail from side to side.
- Body slightly leaning forward with stiff legs.
- Growling.
- Baring teeth.
- "Yowling": a mix of anger and fear.
Calm your cat by placing her in her own spot for a moment. If possible, remove the source of irritation from her environment.
What does my cat mean when she meows?
Cats meow mainly at people, much less at other cats. When your cat meows at you, it is either a greeting or a sign of dissatisfaction — for example because she is hungry, bored or feels she is not getting enough attention. Non-stop meowing indicates pain. Consult the vet in that case.
Why does my cat bite?
Our purring friends usually have a good reason to bite, we just do not always understand it. Your cat bites:
- when you often play with her using your hands or feet (she has come to see them as prey).
- out of fear.
- to protect her kittens.
- when she feels threatened.
- when she is tense.
Rest and routine are very important for your cat. This may reduce any anxiety, causing her to bite less.
How do I make something clear to my cat?
Show your cat she is doing something right by rewarding her with a stroke or a treat. Want to tell her what she is doing is wrong? Show her what to do instead. Always use a cheerful voice. Whatever you want to make clear to your cat, do so from a relaxed posture and always approach her positively. Cats are very sensitive to stress and pick up on tension immediately. Keep communicating well and you will stay the best of friends.