Cats are undoubtedly much harder to read than dogs, but their reputation – and often aloof manner – masks the fact that it is actually much easier to understand them than we often think.
We’ve talked before about how you can understand whether your cat really loves you, but in this article we’re going to dig a little deeper into other aspects of cat behaviour, so that we can understand just a little better what it is that they’re trying to tell us.
The eyes have it
You can read a lot about how your cat is feeling by closely watching its eyes.
- Eyes shut or half closed with small pupils: generally happy and relaxed
- Eyes open with small pupils: still okay, but something has got its attention
- Eyes open with wide pupils: anxious, approach with caution; or stressed, approach with even more caution
- Eyes open and looking down: this could mean you’re cat is depressed
The quivering tail
If your cat approaches you with its tail high up and quivering, you should be pleased. At first glance, it might look like your cat is quivering with fear, but in fact it’s usually a greeting and shows that your cat is excited to see you.
The roll on the back
We’ve probably all seen cats roll on their backs when we approach them – it’s one of the cutest things they do. It’s meant as a greeting or as a way of attracting your attention, perhaps even as an invitation to play. What it is not – repeat not – is an invitation for you to rub their tummy. You might get the odd cat that lets you do that, but most will probably take the opportunity to dig their claws into your forearm and hang on for dear life.
The purr
The purr is always seen as the ultimate sign of a cat’s contentment – and this is indeed usually the case. However, it can also be a sign that they are trying to manage pain or reduce anxiety, so you need to be looking at other indicators if you suspect this might be the case with your cat.
The tail tap
If your cat is lying down and tapping their tail strongly and repeatedly, this is often a sign that they aren’t feeling well or are in pain. If they are sitting up and doing it, they’re probably irritated or annoyed with something. If you try to pet your cat and they start to thrash their tail, the best move is to let them be for the time being.
Sitting in boxes
All cat owners will have seen their pet climb into an empty cardboard box the minute its contents are removed, but what is it about boxes that they love so much? Partly, it’s because being in an enclosed space makes them feel secure, but some scientists also believe it’s because they’re ambush predators and the box – in the cat’s head, anyway – is somewhere to hide and then launch a surprise attack from. That also makes it good for games with you!
Sitting on random things
Have you ever noticed how your cat will happily plonk itself onto your book, your purse, an envelope, in fact on anything you leave lying about on the sofa or dining table? All they’re doing is leaving their scent on your stuff. It’s basic territorial behaviour, and they’re doing the same thing when they rub up against you – they’re marking you as theirs (but you knew that was the case anyway!).
Here at Green Lane Farm Boarding Kennels and Cattery, we’ve been looking after cats for over 50 years and have learned a bit about what goes on in a cat’s head. That means we know how to keep them happy and content while they’re away from their normal home. Of course, we can do the same for your dog, tortoise, rabbit or guinea pig, too!
If you need somewhere to place your cat while you’re away and someone to trust to look after him or her with the love and attention they deserve, then get in touch with us today. We’re located in Chessington in Surrey and also convenient for those living in and around Kingston.
