How To Understand What Your Cat is Saying to You

 How To Understand What Your Cat is Saying to You

Unspoken Language

Humans are (for the most part) verbal communicators. Of course, body language greatly factors into the equation; however, it isn't something that we generally register on a conscious level. In addition, a great many people communicate through sign language, but for many of us, our main form of communication is through the spoken word.

Because we are so focused on the spoken word, we tend to write off other forms of communication (pun intended) and assume that humans are the only ones who attempt to articulate their thoughts and feelings to others.

A number of species communicate through a variety of methods. For example, most people know that it is probably a good idea to keep your distance when an animal's hair stands up along its back. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. According to Dr. Gary Weitzman, president and CEO of the San Diego Humane Society and SPCA and author of the new National Geographic book “How to Speak Cat," there are approximately 16 primary ways that cats communicate.

Kitty Communication

The meaning of these different signals can range from "feed me" to "let me go." Furthermore, Weitzman notes that cats usually only utilize these when people are around, i.e., they don't communicate this way with other cats. Of course, some things are universal, and cats use them to communicate to all organisms equally. The most common are summed up below, and if you have a cat, you'll probably recognize a few.

1. Blinking is how cats show affection, kind of their way of saying "I love you." A slow blink is, according to Weitzman, akin to a wink. To test this, try slow blinking at your cat and see if it blinks back.

2. A straight up tail means that the feline is very happy to see you. A cat that perks up its tail as it approaches you is showing its excitement. To test this one, well, observe how your cat responds once it hasn't seen you for some time.

3. Cats meow in order to get attention from their mother. This applies to kittens and also to adult cats who are trying to communicate with their owners (adult cats rarely meow at one another). Cats often do this when they want to be fed or want to be let outside.

4. When a cat purrs, it is (surprise!) emotionally content.

5. If the cat is chirping or chattering, be careful (if you are a mouse). This is what cats do when they see potential prey. So if it is making these noises while sitting by a window, it likely sees a bird or other small animal.

6. Hissing means that the cat is threatened. It is a warning, and if it is not heeded, the cat will likely attack (everyone probably already knew this one as well).

7. If its whiskers are naturally out to the side, then the cat is showing that it is happy or calm. Conversely, whiskers that seem to be pulled back towards the body are an indication that the cat is upset and possibly scared.

8. A continuation of the last one, if a cat's ears are flat, it's scared.

9. If a cat is lying down with its belly exposed, it is showing that it trusts you. Note: This doesn't necessarily mean that cats like to have their tummies rubbed.

10. A little wagging of the tail means that the cat is content.

11. Rapid swishing means that the cat is annoyed about something.

12. Kneading means that the cat is happy. This is what kittens do when they are feeding from their mothers, and they mimic this as adults as a sign of affection.

13. When cats rub their cheeks up against you, they aren't trying to cuddle; they are marking you. Cats have scent glands in their cheeks, and they rub these areas against objects that they are claiming. It is a sign of ownership (not really affection),

14. Licking is another way that cats show affection.

15. Turning sideways and doing a little "dance" means that the cat is intimidated (this is when the cat looks kind of "skittish").

16. A cat whose tail is laying limply down is mad.

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What Your Cat Is Trying To Tell You with Its Tail

What Your Cat Is Trying To Tell You with Its Tail

Have you ever known a cat whose temperament could change on a dime? One moment they'll crawl into your lap, purring affectionately. The next, they'll lash out with a paw and dash away.

Your best clue about your cat's moods could be their tail.

Cats use several strategies to communicate with their humans, including body language. One of the best ways to read your cat's mood is to look at their tail.

Cat Tail Language

Cats can't tell us how they're feeling. It can be annoying when we're not sure if they're happy or upset with us, or worrying when they can't tell us if they're sick.

Understanding your cat's tail language can help you improve your relationship with your companion. It can also help you identify health concerns before they get out of control.

Cats are happy when their tails point straight up or have a slight curve. 

"An upward or upright tail, with or without a hook, is typically a sign of positive emotions and precedes a safe and friendly interaction," Siracusa said.

This is the ideal tail position you want to see when you get home. If your cat is running towards you with their tail straight up like this, it means they're happy to see you. Or just happy you're about to refill their food bowl.

Question Mark

If your cat's tail is hooked in the shape of a question mark, that's another positive indication. This is a variation on the straight-up tail position.

Treat this the same way you would treat a straight-up tail. It's a good sign and means that you're doing something your cat likes.

Cats will rub up against you and wrap their tails around your leg when they want attention. 

This is another positive indicator. Cats use their tails for expression, so if they wrap their tail around you, treat it like a handshake. When your cat does this, it means they feel comfortable getting close to you.

Cats may also wrap their tails around your leg when they rub up against you. They do this to spread pheromones and mark you as their human. It's a way of getting your attention when they want affection or food.

Relaxed

"A relaxed tail position that does not move much is usually indicate of a low emotional arousal," Siracusa said. "For example, when a cat is just moving from point A to point B and does not want to communicate any specific emotion."

Cats often use their tail language like we use speech or body language. Sometimes you just don't have anything to say, and cats are the same way. Don't read too much into a relaxed tail.

Low

If your cat has their tail—and possibly their whole body—low to the ground, it's a sign they're scared or anxious. Cats do this when they want to avoid being seen or caught.

Many cats do this when it's time to go to the vet. Especially if they don't like the cat carrier very much.

If your cat consistently has its tail and body low to the ground and there are no frightening stimuli nearby, that could mean they are in pain. Talk to your veterinarian and mention your cat's body language as your reason for concern.

Cats puff their tails up to look bigger when they're agitated.

This is probably the most well-known declaration in cat tail language. A puffed-up tail means your cat is extremely agitated.

Cats instinctually puff their tails up in dangerous situations to appear bigger and more frightening to other cats and potential predators. If their tail is puffy at home, that probably means you've done something to alarm them.

Fast Slapping

If your cat is moving their whole tail back and forth quickly, that's a sign that they're emotionally aroused. This isn't necessarily a bad thing—those emotions could be positive or negative—but it is a sign that you should be especially gentle and avoid doing things that would upset your cat in this state.

"I would approach with caution a cat that is so emotionally aroused," Siracusa said, "in particular if the entire tail is moving from one side to the other with very fast 'slaps'."

Cats will swish their tails back and forth when they're focused and alert. 

"Slower movements of the tail, that may not involve the entire length of it, may mean an increased focus and not necessarily aggression," Siracusa said. "For example, before a cat pounces when playing."

Your cat might do this when you bring out their favorite toy. It's common behavior for cats who are excited and ready to play.

Sudden Twitching

If your cat starts twitching their tail, it probably means they're upset with you. They might be annoyed with how you're touching them or just done with you for now.

The best thing to do in this situation is to give your cat some space. Respect their boundaries and let them seek you out when they're ready for attention again.

How to Interpret the Meaning of Your Cat's Tail Movement

"Cats' body language, including tail language, is pretty universal," Siracusa said. "However, individualities have to be considered always."

You know your cat best. Take what you've learned about the general meanings behind cats' tails and apply it to them. Consider things like:

Your cat's temperament. Are they usually shy or outgoing? That could influence how you read their tail.

The situation. In some situations, a twitching tail could mean your cat is getting annoyed. But if they're sitting on your lap and purring at the same time, they're probably just excited.

Your cat's history. Cats can change their tail language based on their history. For example, some cats behave like dogs if they're raised in a canine-heavy environment.

Cats are expressive creatures. Learning to read your cat's body language can help you spot feline colds and other cat illnesses early on.

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Understanding Cat Body Language

34 Ways Your Cat Is Secretly Communicating with You

Cats are a conundrum. They want attention, but you better not smother them. They like to play, but will also scratch without warning. Plus, unlike canines, felines don’t take too kindly to commands. It’s been proven that they can definitely learn commands but following someone else’s rules doesn’t really go with their whole…thing. Which means it’s up to us to interpret their bizarre cat body language, behavior and vocalizations to understand what is going on inside their cute little cat heads!

At first, this is daunting. But, hopefully after sifting through the many ways in which cats communicate through body language, you’ll have a better understanding of what your pet wants, needs and feels in certain moments. This can be especially helpful to those of us with super shy cats. Being able to pinpoint when a cat who is typically fearful actually begins to feel comfortable and confident can completely change the way you interact with her. The goal, after all, is to have the best relationship possible with our pets.

Meet the Expert:

Before we dive in, it’s important to note that context plays a huge role in decoding cat body language. Just like dog body language, context could mean the difference between “I’m ready to fight,” and “I’m ready to nap.” Dr. Marci Koski, a certified feline behavior and training consultant who founded Feline Behavior Solutions, advises always factoring in context when considering a cat’s body and behavior. Context includes—but isn’t limited to—where your cat is, who else is around, when your cat last ate, and what activities are happening in close proximity.

How to Tell If a Cat Likes You

Yes, if a cat nestles its warm body into your lap, chances are he likes you. Beyond that, there are key indicators that a cat trusts, loves and enjoys you. A big one is exposing their bellies to you. Rolling onto their backs, legs up, belly out is a significant display of trust. Your cat’s body is vulnerable, but they know you are a safe presence. Another indicator that your cat likes you is sitting near you but facing away from you. Again, they know you aren’t a predator and trust you won’t attack when they aren’t looking.

In terms of loving gestures, kneading and rubbing their faces against you are key cat moves. Kneading expresses deep contentment and comfort. If a cat sits on your lap, rubs their cheeks against you to mark their territory, then begins kneading, you can safely assume they do, in fact, love you.

How to Tell If a Cat Is Anxious

Cats tend to prepare for swift exits when they feel anxious. You will probably witness their body in a crouched position with wide eyes, ears standing straight up to indicate they are alert to any unfamiliar or threatening sounds. Pay attention to how your cat’s ears rotate. If they flatten, this means anxiety is mounting. Are their tails flicking back and forth? Jackson Galaxy says this shows apprehension.

If you want to better understand your cat, pay attention to his unique reactions and tells. After six years with my two cats, I can tell the difference between Jacques’ anxious behavior (he becomes very vocal and skittish) and Foxy’s anxious behavior (she grows quiet and wide-eyed).

Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about cat communications.

Physicalizations

Body language is the name of the game here, folks! Sounds your cat makes cover broader territory. Physicalizations will tell you whether your cat is ready to fight (arched back, erect ears) or flee (crouched position, facing sideways). The primary indicators are the ears, posture and tail.

1. Tail High in the Air (Relaxed Context)

Dasha Burobina

My cat Jacques almost always has his tail straight up in the air as he trots down the hallway. This is his way of saying, “I’m happy and absolutely ready to play if you wanna.”

2. Tail High in the Air (Tense Context)

Cats who toss their tails straight into the air when meeting a new cat or facing a potentially threatening situation are indicating they’re ready to fight if necessary. Often, this action comes with bristled fur.

3. Tail High on the Air (Quivering)

I typically only see this behavior in my cats right before meal time. According to the Humane Society, a quivering tail likely means your kitty is really excited about something, or about to spray or urinate to mark territory. Spraying is more common in unspayed or unneutered felines.

4. Low, Tucked Tail

When a cat is afraid, he tries to make his body as small as possible. A tucked tail makes him a tinier target and shows us he’s not into whatever is happening.

5. Tail Flicking Back and Forth

You might get an ominous feeling looking at your cat’s tail flick back and forth like a metronome. That’s because she’s a little agitated and telling you to leave her alone. In certain contexts, it could simply indicate she’s on high alert (almost like she’s thinking).

6. Arched Back (with Bristled Fur)

An arched back combined with bristling fur and an alert expression is a sign of aggression. Your kitty is alarmed. Cats will try to make themselves as big as possible if they feel threatened.

7. Arched Back (with a Yawn)

It’s also a really nice stretch (hello, cat pose!). Odds are your cat is either just waking up or about to curl up for a nap.

8. Standing Sideways

This seems like something cats might do on the regular, but positioning their bodies sideways or moving to a position that only exposes one side of their body means they are ready to run if needed. In a word, they’re fearful.

9. Facing Head On

Unlike canines who may see a head on interaction as a sign of aggression, cats position their bodies this way when they are feeling self-assured and positive.

10. Facing Away

My cat Foxy will often waltz into a room and sit down facing away from me. It feels like an absolute insult; she could not be less interested in what I’m doing and needs me to know it. In reality, she’s demonstrating how much she trusts me. I definitely shouldn’t launch a surprise snuggle session on her, but it’s nice to know she feels comfortable enough around me to trust me chilling in her blind spot.

11. Crouched (with Alert Expression)

Again, a crouching body is simply preparation to leap out of harm’s way. An alert crouch means your cat is anxious.

12. Crouched (Wiggling Butt)

I’ve seen this more times than I can count. A crouched cat, wiggling its butt, is about to pounce on something. It’s … a delight to watch.

13. Stretching, Belly Up

Exposing the belly is a huge sign of trust! It means your cat feels totally secure and relaxed around you. As Cat Protection warns, it doesn’t mean she wants you to rub her belly, though. No. She’ll protect that by biting and scratching. Try it!

14. Rolling Around, Belly Up

Again, she may roll around with her belly up and look at you like, “What are you waiting for? Play with me!” But if you rub her belly, she will not love it.

15. Standing Still, Frozen

A cat that stands (or stops mid stroll) perfectly still is assessing an uncomfortable situation. Her body may tense up or crouch unexpectedly.

16. Tall, Erect Ears

Your cat is on high alert. What. Was. That. Noise.

17. Forward, relaxed ears

Your cat is calm and cool as a cucumber.

18. Swiveling ears

Your cat is investigating everything going on around her, taking it all in.

19. Flattened Ears

Your cat is not having a good time; she’s mad or scared and probably about to bolt.

20. Flattened whiskers

Often, flattened whiskers accompany flattened ears as a sign of fear. VCA Animal Hospitals notes that whiskers are extra sensory tools cats use to interpret their environment. If you see whiskers flatten then puff out, your cat may feel threatened.

21. Slow, steady blinks

Eyes aren’t exactly the windows to your cat’s soul, unfortunately. The rest of their body is way more communicative. But, if you get a slow, steady gaze with some blinks, it means your cat is comfortable around you and maybe a little sleepy.

22. Dilated Pupils

Simply put, dilated pupils are a sign your cat is keyed up. It could be due to anything from anger to fear to excitement. It’s important to rely on the rest of the body for additional context clues.

23. Tiny Pupils

When your cat’s pupils narrow into tiny slits, they could be signaling aggression. Look for other signs of body language to help interpret. (It could also just be really bright.)

24. Head Rubbing

When cats rub their heads against stuff (your leg, a chair, the corner of a door), they are marking their territory. It’s sweet, when you think about it.

25. Kneading

Often referred to as “making biscuits,” cats will scrunch their paws into tiny fists over and over again as a way to express extreme happiness. As kittens, this is the mechanism they used to increase milk flow from their mothers during nursing.

26. Sniffing face

Have you ever seen your cat make this face: eyes squinted, mouth hanging open, head lifted? She’s smelling stuff! Felines have what’s called a Jacobson’s Organ. Connected to the nasal passage, it’s located on the roof of the mouth right behind the top teeth. It allows cats to better collect and interpret scents. This face means your cat is just conducting her own investigation.

Vocalizations

Relying on physical body language to understand your cat doesn’t mean you get to ignore vocals completely. Sounds cats make are simply the icing on the cake. Again, check in on the rest of the body and the context when deciphering sounds. If your cat is kneading and purring, she’s pretty content. If she’s lethargic and purring, she could be sick.

27. Meow

Truly, a meow can mean so many different things. It’s literally a one-size-fits-all noise from your cat. Look at the context of the situation and her body language to figure out what she’s trying to tell you. Learn to decipher the many meows your cat uses to get your attention. There’s probably one that says “I’m hungry” and another that says “Play with me!”

28. Constant Meowing

Meowing the point of absurdity (aka, a consistent, constant meow) could very well mean your cat doesn’t feel good and should see the vet.

29. Chirp

A cat who enters a room chirping likely wants attention and is frustrated by being ignored. A chirp once the toys come out indicates pure joy and enthusiasm.

30. Trill

Similar to a chirp, a trill is a friendly, “Hello! What’s up with you? Anyone interested in playtime?”

31. Purr

Purring is often solely associated with utter pleasure (which is true!), but it’s also a form of self-soothing. A lethargic or reclusive cat who routinely purrs could be in pain.

32. Growl

Yes, cats growl. I’ve heard it several times when Foxy has approached Jacques while he’s got his favorite toy (a dragonfly) in his mouth. He’s saying, “Back off. This is mine.”

33. Hiss

I’ve also heard Foxy hiss when Jacques gets too rough as they play. She’s saying, “Enough. I’m angry at you.”

34. Yowl

A low yowl is a sad noise. Your cat is expressing despair; she feels like there’s nothing else she can do and is very afraid or upset.

Finally, remember that every cat has its tells. By observing and getting to know what your cat’s quirks and habits are, you’ll be much better equipped to handle certain behaviors and notice when they change.

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