Cat body language is very important to learn in order to better understand and to communicate with cats. Cats utilize body language to communicate using their ears, eyes, whiskers, tails, and body posture. It is the responsibility of humans to better understand these body language signs and respond in the appropriate manner.
Understanding Cat Body Language
Cats have long rooted instincts as predators and also deep rooted behaviors as potential prey. Cats will often forecast their next intended direction by pointing their body in their next desired direction. Here we take a look at both positive and negative forms of Cat body language.
Positive Cat Body Language
Trusting – . The exposed belly is a sign of comfort and trust, but it is not necessarily an invitation for a belly rub. Many people have touched a cat’s stomach only to have their hand seized and rabbit kicked. The majority of cats consider the belly a vulnerable area and will defined their stomach region.
Relaxed and content – a relaxed cat has their tail straight back and their muscles are loose with their head still instead of turning and looking around. A relaxed cat will be confident and should walk around with their head held high with whiskers will be in their normal position. When your cat is relaxed and happy, they might look sleepy or totally chilled out. Comfortable and relaxed cats are calm, quiet, and content. They will lie on the floor stretched out with their tail extended or wrapped around their body.




Negative Cat Body Language
Irritated, agitated and angry – tail is high in the air and rapidly flipping back and forth from side to side. If a cat feels trapped or is blocked from escape, they will often exhibit agitated body language. Their ears will be laid back against their head and whiskers will be flat against their face. Hissing or growling may be vocalizations to accompany irritated body language.


Offended – a cat that knows you and is offended may turn their back to you to demonstrate that you are no longer worthy. A strange cat that is offended will typically just flee the scene and escape.
