Cat’s body language...

Cat’s body language can help you decipher its moods. A cat’s body language is indicative of its moods and needs. Since cats cannot communicate through verbal means, it is essential that you understand what your cat is trying to tell you by its body language. This is not too difficult a task; it merely requires that you pay close attention to your pet’s actions for the first few months.

The most important way in which cats communicate is by vocalizing. A purr implies contentment, a hiss is a warning signal while a snarl is definite sign of irritation, offense and possible attack. These different ‘speeches’ made by a cat are easy and important to understand. You can also identify your cat’s moods by watching its body language:-

Happy Cats:

• A definite indication that your cat is very happy to see you is when it holds its tail rigidly vertical with the tip completely straight.
• A happy cat will always walk straight, its manner confident yet alert and its eyes narrow.
• Happy cat eyes are always wide open when lounging and the ears are constantly moving, trying to catch the direction of every little sound.

Angry Cats:

• A definite indication that your cat is angry is when it is swishing (wagging) its tail from side to side. While a slight twitch in the tip implies irritation, a vigorous swish is a warning sign that the cat is highly agitated. A bristling tail shows that your cat is ready to attack any moment.
• Angry cat eyes are large with dilated pupils and the ears are always pointed forward at an angle.
• The aggression of a cat is best recognized by its hiss and spit; open mouth, lips retracted and teeth bared are all signs of a highly irate cat.

Playful Cats:

• A cat is in a playful mood when it arches its back, seems to stretch out a bit, curls its tail upward loosely and puts its head down. This is a sign that it wants to play and that it likes you.
• Another sign of a playful mood is when the cat comes up to you and rubs against your face with its nose or forehead; it is a true sign of affection and good-humor.

Curious Cats:

• A curious cat fully extends its whiskers, so as to explore the world around it.
• The eyes of a curious cat have a faraway look and its ears rotate like radar dishes - as it seeks the source of the sound that has caught its attention.

Each of these actions is the formative means by which you can develop an understanding relationship with your household feline.