How to Read a Cat's Body Language

From its ears to the tip of its tail, a cat uses body language to convey its mood. Submission, aggression, affection and fear are just a few of the emotions you can read by observing your cats posture, movements and subtle physical changes. Interpret your cat's body language and enhance your ability to understand your feline friend.

Instructions

    • 1

      Let your cat own you. When your cat rubs against you, glands around her nose, cheeks and chin secrete a scent. This scent marks your cat's territory (you), which shows great affection and ownership.

    • 2

      Notice when a cat is excited to see you. His tail may be held straight up and his body may be quivering. This indicates that he is happy all over.

    • 3

      Stroke the submissive kitty that thumps her tail back and forth. By holding her tail a little lower to the ground, she is expressing her acceptance of your dominance.

    • 4

      Pay attention to a cat's ears. Perked up ears indicated curiosity, while ears pulled back flat against the head signal anger, irritation or a potential fight.

    • 5

      Watch out for the bristling tail. A cat bristles his tail and back when he is frightened. The bristling is an attempt to appear larger and more threatening to an enemy.

    • 6

      Make eye contact with your cat. A cat's will look deeply into your eyes to show trust and love. Like a human, a cat's eyes will dilate when it is frightened or upset.

    • 7

      Beware of the swishing tail. Be cautious of a cat that swishes her tail from side to side, sometimes thumping the ground with it. The faster the swishing, the greater the frenzy, so step aside.