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Understanding Cat Body Language

Submitted by Michael Adams on February 25, 2010

One of the ways in which cats communicate is body language. Scent and sound are also used by cats to communicate with each other, especially as kittens. Adult cats however mainly rely on non-vocal communication.

Cats use their entire bodies when they need to send across a message. Understanding cat body language will help you understand your cat better and make you more attuned to her needs.

The tail of the cat is often indicative of her mood.

However since the ears, eyes, legs, face and coat are also involved in communication, only determining the position of the tail may sometimes be misleading. Cat body language is very apparent during play with other cats or humans. Body signals are also used when two male cats meet, maybe for establishing territory or when vying for a female cat. These non-vocal signals are mainly used to prevent physical conflict from taking place as both cats are aware that a conflict could result in severe injuries. When the tail of the cat is upright, it is used to indicate contentment or friendliness. Also, if the tail quivers slightly it means that the cat is pleased with the other cat or human she is meeting.

However, an upright tail with the hairs standing on end indicates anger and rage. Cats also depend on their sharp hearing as part of their defense response. Each ear of the cat can turn on its own and move up and down depending on the source of the sound. Upright and pointed ears mean that the cat is relaxed, but also alert. Ears that point sideways indicate that the cat is alert to her surroundings but is uncertain about them. Upright and backwards pointed ears mean that the cat is disturbed and may turn aggressive. Understanding cat behavior also involves understanding what is being conveyed by the cat’s eyes. Staring may indicate threat and aggression. Enlarged pupils may convey fear, pain or even excitement.

Understanding cat language is also possible by analyzing the cat’s head and mouth signals. Aggression may be conveyed when the cat’s head is held low and the eyes are fixed upon something. Defensiveness is indicated when the cat holds her head to one side and looks sideways at the aggressor. Cats that meet in friendship will often rub their heads together or gently bump their heads. Defensiveness or aggression may also be indicated when the cat hisses or snarls.

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