CATS POSTURE
AFFECTION
* Did
you know if your kitty "head-butts" or licks you, it means she really
likes you? Rubbing on nearby objects is called "redirected affection"
. If her tails pops straight up as she's happy to see you. If she's
grooming in short, rapid strokes, and looking at you, she's saying, "all
is well". Bright eyes, perked up ears, and forward-facing whiskers mean
she's ready for some interaction.
AGGRESSION
*Aggression can be
defensive or offensive. A defensive cat is fearful, and reacting to a
threat. She might be curled up in a ball, rolled to one side, tail
tucked in close. Her ears will be flattened, pupils dilated, and she may
be hissing. If the threat continues, she may launch an attack. If you see
your cat in this position, don't approach, stay several feet away and
speak softly until she calms down, and let her come to you for
reassurance afterward.Offensive aggression is the "Halloween Cat", hair
standing up,back and tail arched, pupils huge, tongue curled, hissing or
yowling. A cat in this pose is ready to (but may or may
not)attack. Nevertheless, get out of the way!
BOREDOM
*If your kitty is
bored, she may groom constantly,with long, intense strokes.Her tail
might be low, at "half-mast", or swishing slowly back and forth, telling
you, "I'm not happy". She may pace back and forth, sigh, or talk to you
as if to say,"I need something to do".
ILNESS
*A crouched body
and tucked tail may mean your kitty is in pain or ill. Look for
half-closed eyes, downcast ears, or blank expression. Obviously a kitty
lying on her side but unresponsive or breathing funny needs immediate
medical attention.
OVER STIMULATION
*Many owners end
up bewildered (and bleeding) by a "sudden" attack during a
play, petting, or brushing session.Overstimulated cats sometimes respond
with a burst of energy directed at the nearest object. But there are
warning signs: her tail will begin to swish back and forth, ears will
twitch forward and back,she may vocalize,or turn her head towards your
hand. When you see these signs, stop the activity and give her a
time-out until her adrenaline calms down. She may still strike out,
however, so prepared.
RELAXATION
*Cat owners have
all seen (and envied) the postures of a relaxed cat.They just seem to
melt into whatever surface they're on.They roll onto their backs,or
pose like a "J" with their head sideways and upturned, the rest of
their body lengthened and still. Eyes can convey relaxation too, in slow
blinks, normal-sized pupils,and soft gazes.