Cat’s aren’t as easy to read as dogs. They can seem aloof, standoffish and complicated, and many owners struggle to communicate with their cats, even after they’ve been living together for many years. But if you know how to read their signals then it can be easy to interpret. This is how to decipher your cat’s language so you can better bond.

Meow

Meow is an all-purpose word. Your cat can be saying meow as a greeting or a command such as I want to get down or I want more food. It can be an announcement such as I found my toy.

Chirping

Meowing isn’t the only sound a cat makes. Chirping is a way to get attention and to communicate with you or other cats. Occasionally you might hear your cat chirp to get you to feed them or play with them. Mother cats are often heard making chirping noises with their kittens.

Chattering

If you have ever heard a cat make a chattering noise that sounds kind of like Hannibal Lecture, she was probably watching pretty like birds or a squirrel. There are various theories as to why cats make this sound. Some scientists think they do it out of frustration, while others think its to warm up those jaw muscles.

Growling

If you hear a cat hissing, spitting, or growling, this indicates it is frightened or angry and might react in an aggressive manner such as biting or clawing. It’s best to stay away.

Purring

Peopled have always been confounded by a cat’s purr. While purring is usually associated with happiness or contentment, however some cats also purr when they are hurt, hungry or sad. To be sure of how your cat is really feeling, observe her body language. If your cat seems relaxed and happy, you can probably take her purring ot mean she’s pleased to be around you.

Displaying Tummy

When a cat rolls over on his or her belly, it doesn’t necessarily mean they want a tummy rub like you might expect. It means you’ve won their trust. The posture puts the cat in a very vulnerable position as its belly is exposed and it cannot run away easily. Your pet feels safe in your presence, but for many cats it can be a betrayal of that trust if you rub them on them the belly and may result in a nip or a scratch.

Tail Wagging

A cat’s tail, like a dog, indicates their emotional state. When the tail is raised and held in an upright position that means the cat is feeling friendly. On the other hand, a rigid tail indicates tension and caution, while one that is held low indicates fear. If you see your cat’s tail puffed up with its fur standing on end, that means she’s angry or afraid and is tying to look larger and more dominant. A cat whose tail is jerking back and forth is annoyed. Finally, a cat whose tail is lazily draped around her is feeling affectionate or relaxed.

Hopefully this has given you a better understanding of how your cat operates. If you have any questions about your pet, pleased don’t hesitate to give us a call