Cat Language

Cats can't talk like we can but they can tell us how they are feeling with their bodies. They can tell us that they are happy, frightened, scared or angry by the way that they look. The golden rule is if you are unsure then do not go near it. Cats are different to dogs so the messages that their bodies give us can also be different.

How does a cat tell us that it is feeling happy and relaxed?

The Face:

• Ears are up facing forward.
• Eyes are wide open.
• If relaxed the eyes might be half closed.
  

The Body:

• Generally relaxed.
• May stretch out and slowly push out and then pull in its claws.
• Treading (pushing with their front paws).
• Purring.
  

The Tail:

• Tail can be moving gently from side to side.
• Carried high with the tip hanging over and twitching from side to side.
  

How does a cat tell us that it is feeling scared or frightened?

The Face:

• The ears are lying flat on the head.
• Whiskers could be flat against the face.
  

The Body:

• Back arched, or
• Makes itself look small (crouched).
  

The Tail:

• Holds the tail very high and straight.
• The hairs on the cat's back and tail may stand up.
  

How does a cat tell us that it is angry or upset?

The Face:

• Has ears turned to show more of the back of the ear.
• Eyes wide open.
• Whiskers pushed forward.
• Mouth may be open and showing its teeth.
• Might make a hissing sound.
  

The Body:

• Straight back.
• Keep its head the same height as its body.
• The hairs on the back and tail may stand up.

The Tail:

• Tail is held close to the body.
• Tail may flick from one side to the other.
• The tail may be held up straight and high in the air.

http://www.pets.info.vic.gov.au/01/dc_lang.htm