What Is My Pet Thinking?
Reading Your Cat's Body Language
ASPCA
The Mew Story...
THE TALE OF THE TAIL...
When the tail is flying high: "all is terrific."
When it is at half-mast: "all is not terrific."
When it is dropped low: "I'm very unhappy."
When it twitches back and forth: "back off."
When the tip twitches: "I'm self conscious."
When it's bushy: "I'm angry!"
TONGUES TALK WHEN CATS GROOM...
Embarrassment: Rapid, non-stop licking.
OK: Short staccato licks looking at you.
Boredom: Constant, deep intense licks.
Nervousness: Short, shallow licks.
Affection: The cat licks you. A good time to train.
THE EAR STORY... Ears alert/straight up: Ready for fun or affection.
Ears flat out sideways: "What's up?"
Ears downward: "I'm defensive. Watch out!"
Ears down and back: "I'm furious. Watch out!"
LISTEN TO MY PAWS...
Paw kneading: "I'm content."
Paw strokes, Paw hugs: "I love you."
Paw nagging: "Hurry up!"
Paw blows:" A fight!"
THE EYES SAY IT...
Eyes wide open and looking at you: "I'm listening."
Eyes half closed: "I'm sleepy."
Eye pupils in slits: "I'm feeling alert and confident."
Bug-eyed: "I'm frightened."...so be careful!
Blinking and winking: "I'm talking to you, I like you."
Eyes clouded: "I'm ill."Or, "I'm relaxed."
Eyes staring: "Stay away." A stare is a challenge.
Advice: Take a few minutes every day to have a conversation with your cat. The sound of your voice will help your cat become responsive and friendly.
Courtesy of
ASPCA
424 East 92nd Street
New York, NY 10128-6804
212-876-7700
www.aspca.org
Next in
After You Adopt: What Is My Pet Thinking?:
Why Do Cats Meow?
