Understanding Cat Behavior: What Your Feline is Trying to Tell You

Cats are fascinating creatures with complex communication systems. Understanding your cat's behavior can strengthen your bond and help you meet their needs better.

Body Language Basics

Your cat's body tells you a lot about how they're feeling. A relaxed cat has soft eyes, ears forward, and a loosely curved tail. An alert or playful cat may have dilated pupils and a twitching tail.

Tail Positions

- **Upright tail**: Happy and confident

- **Puffed tail**: Frightened or aggressive

- **Tucked tail**: Scared or submissive

- **Slow wag**: Focused or slightly annoyed

Vocalizations

Cats use various sounds to communicate. Meowing is typically reserved for humans, while cats use other sounds with each other. Purring usually indicates contentment, but can also mean distress. Hissing and growling are clear warning signs.

Kneading Behavior

When cats knead with their paws, it's a sign of contentment that dates back to kittenhood when they kneaded their mother to stimulate milk flow.

Head Bunting

When your cat rubs their head against you, they're marking you with their scent glands, claiming you as part of their family.

Understanding these signals helps you respond appropriately to your cat's needs and emotions.