Instructions
Observe the cat's ears. Upright or twitching ears indicate awareness and that the cat is listening closely or interested in something. Ears turned in an almost backward position mean that the cat feels threatened. If the ears are completely flat against the head, the cat feels very angry or frightened and will likely become aggressive if approached.
Look closely at the eyes. Contracted pupils are a sign of relaxation, but can also indicate that the cat is feeling threatened. The eyes of a truly content feline are often only half open, making the cat look sleepy. Fully dilated pupils can be a sign of anger or playfulness, so it's necessary to observe the cat's body language and other behaviors to be sure.
Watch the cat's tail for signs of mood. An upright, waving tail is evidence of a happy and sometimes playful cat. A shivering tail shows excitement, often over potential prey. A fast-waving tail with fur raised means a very unhappy or angry cat. As with most animals, tucking the tail between the back legs indicates fear.
Listen to the sounds the cat makes. Purring is an indicator of happiness, but can also mean the cat feels pain or fear. Hissing, growling and spitting let the offending party know that an attack is being seriously considered. Meows can be a greeting or a way to make a request. Loud, plaintive wails communicate that the cat feels very upset.
Study the way the cat positions itself for more clues to how it is feeling. A hunched-over position may mean it feels intimidated or physically unwell. An exposed belly and curled paws indicate that the cat feels completely safe in its environment. An arched back is never a good thing, unless the cat is "play-fighting" with you or another animal.
How to Tell How a Cat Is Feeling?
Cats are expressive creatures, from their eyes to the tips of their tails. Learning how to interpret the subtle clues of a cat's body language and behaviors is the key to understanding how they feel. This is especially important when dealing with strays or adding a new feline to the family. Understanding how to decipher a cat's feelings can help you win the animal's trust and avoid painful bites and scratches when dealing with unfamiliar cats.