Everybody knows that cats purr when they’re content, but what about the other ways they communicate their feline feelings to us?
Ever seen your cat rub its cheek on a sofa, a chair, a wall – even you? The cat is marking its territory and connecting to its network by leaving its scent.
When you arrive home, your cat may rub against you and purr. This is how a cat welcomes you, tells you that you’re their friend, and graciously bestow their forgiveness for your sin of leaving them. Your cat may also carry its tail flag-like in greeting.
Cats also have a welcome ‘miaow’ for your homecoming, which is different to the many other sounds a cat can make – eg, you’ll hear another distinct miaow when your cat wants something to eat.
As well as their wide range of vocal expressions, cats communicate their state through many different tail gestures. Most cat owners are familiar with a cat twitching the end of its tail in irritation. When a cat swishes its tail violently from side to side, you know it’s really mad. A cat thumping its tail heavily and wildly also indicates displeasure, or that the cat really wants something.
If a cat is wagging its tail, it may be making a decision about what to do. Cats also stare with their eyes wide open if they are wondering about something they can hear.
Why do cats torture you by repeatedly kneading your lap or limbs with their front paws – claws extended? This trance-like activity means that cats feel relaxed and secure – and that their nails might need a trim!
Sometimes a cat sitting on your lap may blink slowly and close its eyes for a moment. This also means the cat feels safe and trusts you. And if you gently smile and blink slowly at the cat, it might blink back at you in the same way.
Cats can gently pat objects and people with their claws retracted. This is a playful gesture and if they pat you this way they’re seeking attention. Of course, an angry swipe with their claws extended means something else entirely!
If you are patting a cat and they begin to groom you, it’s a sign of bonding and affection. Cats can also use grooming to show their contempt – have you ever seen a cat sitting just out of reach of an enraged dog, washing behind its ears without a care in the world?
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