What Does it Mean When a Cat Arches Its Back?

A black cat with an arched back is often seen around Halloween. People who own cats may see this posture frequently, and wonder exactly what it means. Cats arch their backs to communicate, to express emotion and as a symptom of pain.

  1. Fear

    • A cat may arch its back when it is feeling afraid or threatened. At the same time as a cat arches its back, its hair stands up on end. These two things together make the cat appear larger, and therefore more threatening to an opponent.

    Stretching

    • A cat who is arching its back might be stretching. Cats stretch after waking up from a nap just like humans do when they wake up. Unlike humans, who only have 34 vertebrae, cats have about 60.

    Friendliness

    • Sometimes a cat arches its back as a gesture of friendliness. Cats often arch their backs while rubbing against the leg of their human. Cats may also expresses friendliness with a dog or other pet in the same way.

    Pain

    • A cat may arch its back as the result of an injury, or because it is in pain. If you suspect that this is the case, it is important to seek veterinary care for your cat as soon as possible.