Cat body language – what you need to know

People say that cats are harder to read, but if you can spot these tell-tale signs that they are feeling uncomfortable then you can take steps to advocate for them and help them. You probably recognise a few of these already!

Looking at your cat’s facial features rather than their body can help you stay up to date with how they may be feeling in a given moment. A cardboard box can be a safe haven for a cat and help them regulate stress if there are visitors they may not want to interact with.

A ginger cat sits in a cardboard box under the table

Let’s think about their body to start off with…

If they have an arched bark and their fur is standing on end (pilo – erection) this is a sign they can be scared. They may be anticipating confrontation and they feel anxious. This is similar to imagining the appearance of a haloween cat.

If they are crouched down, it can be easy to think they are comfortable but this is not always the case.

A note on feeding

Sometimes a cat can feel conflicted regarding food if it’s provided from a hand. They may be scared of a hand but also interested in it as it is providing food. It’s more sensible to place food on the examination table at the vet’s /with someone new to establish positive emotions.

A cat eats from a hand

A cat’s tail

The tail can be a great indicator of the amount of emotion a cat is feeling. If it is thrashing then they may be feeling agitated in a given moment.

Rolling

A cat who rolls on their back and shows their tummy does not mean that they want a belly rub. They may be rolling in defense as their 4 legs can be used to grab and bunny kick.

The face

Look at tension in the face in regards to muscles.

Their ears may be back or placed in a position that are like aeroplane ears.

If your cat has pixy type ears this can be a sign of frustration and frustration can sometimes lead to aggression.

Dilated pupils can also be a sign that they’re uncomfortable. 

Negative experiences

Past history of experience and memories about them can influence behaviour on subsequent visits. 

This is a helpful guide when monitoring behaviour and attempting to distinguish triggers

Who was there and what was happening?

What signs did you see in your cat?

What was the response from your cat?

What was the response from the person?

Wait for our next blog that talks about less stress at the vets…