One thing cat lovers must definitely know is how to read a cat’s body language. Before you try to pick up a cat, you need to see whether the cat is comfortable with it. Like humans, a cat’s body language reveals how it feels about its surroundings. As cat lovers, we must be sensitive to this.
Here are three cat body language that can help you know what your cat is feeling.
The Direct Stare
Although humans use direct eye contact to show affection, in most animals it is threatening. The more fearful a cat becomes, the wider its pupils expand. When a cat’s pupils are dilated, it means he is trying to take in as much visual information as possible. It also means that the cat is very frightened and wants to run away.
When a cat is aroused or angry, the pupils may become narrowed or constricted in order to focus more effectively on detail. It is important to note, however, that cat’s eyes respond to ambient lighting, so it is important to consider the context of their reaction.
Tummy Display
Cats are very different from dogs. Whereas dogs roll over their belly when they are being playful, it is not always so with cats. Have you ever tried stroking your cat’s belly when they are in this position, only to be responded with hissing and scratching? Although your cat may stretch out and roll over when he is content and relaxed, in other situations, he may do this when he feels cornered and cannot escape and follows this pose with fully extended claws and sharp teeth. This indicates that the cat is highly defensive and is prepared to fight.
The Fluttering Blink
When a cat greets another cat or a person with slow, languid blinks, it’s communicating affection. In cat psychology, closing one’s eyes in the presence of another is the ultimate sign of trust. By blinking slowly at your cat, you are communicating that you are aware of its presence and pose no threat.
These are only a few aspects of cat psychology. Check out the full article by pets.webmd.com here.