Cat Language: Your Pet is Telling You Something

Has your cat ever rubbed her head against you? Have they slowly blinked at you, or have you heard consistent meowing from your feline? They’re telling you something! Cats have a language all their own, and learning it is crucial in understanding your pet. Your feline communicates with their whole body through vocals, ears, eyes, tail, and fur. Their scent helps convey messages to their fellow cats, as well.

Vocalization is a key component in cat fundamentals. Despite what many believe, meows are not often used for cats to communicate among themselves. Kittens meow at their mothers, but adult cats rarely signal other felines through meows. Cats adopted this practice to guide their humans towards their needs. Whenever your cat consistently meows at you, she is most likely pleading for you to help her out, whether that be a snack or attention. In greeting their owner, some cats meow happily at their safe return home.

Contrary to popular belief, not all purring cats are content. Many let loose the rumbling within their throat when calm or happy; however, some cats purr when scared. Purring is healing for a cat (and people, as well!), so it can act as self-help to combat fear. 

A growl or hiss should not be ignored. Cats both growl and hiss in warning others of their awareness and hostility. These signals can be directed towards any creature a cat comes into contact with. Anger or fear may be controlling them; it is also possible that she is establishing territory. If you encounter a growling or hissing cat, do not harass the cat. Leave them alone in the hopes they will calm down shortly.

Chattering is a unique form of vocalization. A broken record is a similar comparison in sound. Any small creature that a cat cannot reach can initiate her chatters. Cats often chatter while whipping their tail and staring intently at their ‘prey’. Chatters are thought to indicate either frustration or excitement.

Ears tell much about a cat’s mood. Forward-facing ears indicate a cat’s curiosity. If your cat is interested in something—it may be you! If you see that they are swiveling their ears often, they’re likely stressed. Take notice if your feline’s ears are facing backward: they’re one unhappy kitty. Backward-facing ears are often coupled with hisses and swipes of the paw. This signifies them feeling threatened.

Eyes are windows into the soul. This phrase applies to cats, as well. Wide open eyes are a good sign; you have a trusting cat on your hands. Sleepy-looking eyes are also positive; they are relaxed or happy. If your cat blinks slowly at you, do the same back to them! This is known as a “kitty kiss.” That means, the cat is displaying their contentedness and affection. Your cat is fearful or aggressive if their eyes narrow, and any sudden dilation of the iris indicates a strong emotion. If your cat happens to be staring at another cat, this is an aggressive act.

Always remember, tails don’t lie! A skyward-facing tail is a friendly tail. Your cat is accessible and wants to be approached. A swishing tail displays playfulness or frustration. You should stay away from a flailing or thumping tail because they are in an irritable mood. Bristling of the tail is a defensive act; a raised bristling tail means they’re ready to attack.

A cat’s coat says much about her emotions. If their fur is shiny and smoothly lies on their body, your cat is healthy and calm. Unkempt fur is a concern. Your cat may be sick and in need of a veterinarian’s assistance. A sudden fluff of fur is notable because it expresses fear or aggression.

Although humans cannot smell the way cats can, scent-marking transmits much information within the cat world. This form of communication establishes a cat’s territory; their territory can encompass land area, objects, or living things. Urine and feces are a means of establishing territory. Clawing releases scent for territorial purposes, as well. Bunting, the action of cats rubbing against objects, also deposits scent. Next time your pet rubs against you, recognize they’re marking you as their own. You should be proud to be part of the pack.

Cats co-inhabit the human world. They are little sidekicks, so it is important to learn your cat’s needs and moods. Cats signal their feelings through vocalization, body language, and scent. Next time your cat is content, give her a loving “kitty kiss”. You never know what could happen: they may kiss you back!