Any cat lover knows that the theory that cats are antisocial is wrong. We tend to assume this because of their strong sense of independence and mostly calm nature, but cats have a whole repertoire of ways to communicate, often using subtle body language to express themselves. Every cat is slightly different, but if you can translate these cues, you’re one step closer to understanding what your cat is saying.
purring
Ok, you might think that figuring out this aspect of cat communication is a no-brainer, however, things are not as simple as they seem. Cats not only purr when they are happy, relaxed, and content, they often use their purr to indicate that they want something. Scientific studies have shown that cats purr at their owners when they want to eat, and some cats purr when threatened, as a form of self-comfort or possibly as an attempt to try to “befriend” their “enemy,” for example . a veterinarian or groomer.
Another interesting fact is that scientists have never tested how cats purr. There are various theories as to which parts of the throat make the noise, but so far no one has conclusively figured out how the mechanism works.
the header
Cats will often press the tops of their heads against someone they feel close to as a sign of affection. This action is slightly different from rubbing his face against the owner, which is a way of marking his scent and is a more territorial gesture although it still indicates affection.
The kick of the paw
Cats hit their owners to show disgust. This is often done if someone stops paying attention to them or takes away their food. If the cat is feeling a bit neglected, this gesture can be similar to a human trying to touch someone to get her attention. While it’s unfortunately possible to get caught by a particularly sharp claw, cats will generally perform this strike with their claws inward. A sharp blow with outstretched claws is a much more aggressive action and cats will usually only do this if they are threatened. All other instances of hitting humans or other animals with outstretched claws is bad behavior and should be actively discouraged.
Kneading
Cats will sometimes spend several minutes pawing and kneading on their bed or on their owner’s lap before going to bed. Cats learn this action from birth, as they knead their mother’s nipples to stimulate the flow of breast milk when they are hungry. The behavior then becomes a form of relaxation that translates into a strong feeling of happiness and contentment.
tail movement
Your cat talks a lot with his tail. Held tall and upright, his cat is confident and energetic. If he sweeps you slowly in wide arcs, this shows that he is unhappy with something or someone nearby, and can be seen as a warning. The smaller, jerky movements can often be seen when your cat is hunting or playing and are often a sign that he is about to pounce. The smallest movement of the tip of its tail is said to signify stress or discomfort.
meowing
Some cats are more vocal than others. While one cat may rarely make a sound, others chatter almost constantly. Cats also have different types of meows with different meanings. If you listen carefully, you may come to recognize meows designed to beg for food, to call other people or animals, to be allowed in or out, or to signify happiness.
Rubbing up against your legacy
While making your cat walk in a figure eight between your legs can be frustrating as you try to walk, this is your cat’s way of expressing affection for you and claiming you as his own.
mustache position
Did you know that the position of your cat’s whiskers is a great way to tell what mood he’s in? Whiskers pointing forward and down indicate that they are feeling playful and curious, while whiskers pulled back show a frightened cat. If the whiskers are far forward and tilted up, it is a sign of aggression.
Of course, every cat is different, and cats may use other behaviors such as blinking, yawning, or paw flapping to express themselves. Take some time to study your cat and you will surely strengthen your bond.
