Learn to understand your cat’s body language in our free guide – from every tail flick to the smallest whisker twitch.
Cats are subtle and complicated in the way they communicate but taking time to learn their body language can help to strengthen the relationship with your cat. Learning the signs that they are happy, or when they just want to be left alone, can be a big help to you both.
Unlike dogs, cats haven’t evolved to have lots of facial muscles, which means their faces aren’t as expressive as dogs. This is why it’s important to recognise even the smallest signs and changes in their body language because although they seem small, they say an awful lot.
Common cat body language
There are a few things you might’ve seen your cat do to let you know if they’re happy, upset or stressed. You can see more about body language in cats in our video:
Signs your cat is happy
There’s nothing better than seeing a happy cat! There are a few clear signs that your cat is happy.
An upright tail
Relaxed eyes
Rolling on their back
Relaxed whiskers
Cheek rubbing
Relaxed posture
Slow blinking
Ears forward and relaxed
Asking for a fuss
Signs that your cat is unhappy
Overgrooming
Hissing and swiping
Eyes open with wide pupils
Excessive lip licking
Puffed up fur
Ears to the side or back
Fleeing from people and pets
Slow, guarded movement
What is my cat feeling?
Curious
Your cat may have spotted something that’s interesting
Ears are forward and pointy
Eyes open with small pupils
Whiskers are pointed forward
Stressed
Your cat may be feeling stressed
Ears are flat
Eyes open with wide pupils
Whiskers are pointed forward or curving down
Your cat may be feeling content
Ears are relaxed, forward and rounded
Eyes shut or half closed with small pupils
Whiskers are relaxed and closer to the face
Anxious
Your cat may be feeling worried
Ears pricked with one ear to the side
Eyes open with wide pupils
Whiskers are pointed forward
Depressed
Your cat may be feeling depressed
Ears forward but drooping
Eyes open but looking down
Whiskers are drooping
Can I communicate with my cat through body language?
Understanding what your cat is telling you with their body can help you to communicate with them. The most important thing to remember is not to stare at your cat. They can see this as a threat which can be scary for them and won’t respond in a friendly way!
If your cat is telling you (through their body language) that they feel comfortable and relaxed around you, you can tell them the same. Slowly blink at them and move your head slightly to the side. If you’re lucky, your cat will do the same back.
Saying ’puss puss‘ or making any noises at your cat with a strong ’ss‘ noise will put them off. This sounds like hissing to them, so they’ll think you’re being unfriendly.
Purring
We often think that our cats are happy when they purr. This is only true if their body language is relaxed. They can also purr to get your attention and fuss.
Sometimes cats can purr in stressful situations, such as going to the vet. Sadly, this doesn’t necessarily mean they’re happy at the vet! They can also sometimes purr if they are in pain. It’s important to watch your cat’s body language as well as looking at the context as this is a better indicator of whether they are happy and comfortable.
