Cats

Cat behavior offers insights into their world, enhancing our bond

Cat Language

Cats are fascinating but sometimes mysterious creatures. Cats communicate in a variety of different ways, and to properly understand cats it is vital to appreciate how and why they communicate.

Visual signals are important for communicating mood and intentions. Body postures, expressions, pupil size, and their ability to erect hairs on some or all of the body, are all involved in visual signalling.

Eye of tiger

When your cat is giving you the "eye of the tiger" or looking at something intensely, watch out! She's probably ready to pounce on her next prey.

Cats like to examine their victims to ensure that when they are finally ready to spring, it will be for good reason.

Why do you sit in an unladylike position? Because it's comfortable, of course! Same goes for your kitty. When she is sprawled with her legs open, she is relaxed, happy and trusting in you. She knows that she is safe in your presence, so she can relax.

The reason your cat rubs against furniture is the same reason she likes to rub herself against you. She is giving you her "scent;" you are her human, and she wants the whole world to know. By releasing pheromones from her head, your cat is showing pride in her ownership over you.

Express anger

Not only does your cat hiss to express anger, but also fear. Most cats will hiss when agitated, or to simply warn you to back off and avoid a kitty fit.

Other cats will hiss when they're afraid of something or someone. A hiss may also erupt when they feel threatened by a new member of the animal family. Let your cat calm down, and show him that all is right in his world.

Naturally curious

Cats are naturally curious animals, and this includes a huge curiosity in humans. They love to smell your face, breath and overall scent.

They truly enjoy the warmth that humans present. If you don't mind, let her smell as much as she'd like — as it will only make her love and trust you more.

Upright, slightly pointed ears are usually an indication of your cat being alert. He is listening intently to his surroundings and is ready to spring into action if needed. Let your cat act on his natural instincts, as it will make him feel good about his abilities.

A short and sweet meow is a greeting from your kitty. Usually heard when first seeing you, your cat is simply saying, "Hello." This will usually be met with a jump into your lap or a rub against you. Give your kitty a hello back with a nice rubdown.

Feed me, and do it now! When your cat is hungry, he may give out a longer, louder meow that almost sounds like he's whining. And it's because he kind of is. Acknowledge the meow with food or explanation of when the food is to come.