Reading Your Cat’s Body Language
Cats communicate in subtle and complex ways. Learning to read their cues can help you respond appropriately and build trust.
Key Cat Signals to Watch:
- Tail
- Upright = happy and confident
- Flicking = irritation or overstimulation
- Puffed-up = startled or frightened
- Eyes
- Slow blinking = trust (try blinking back!)
- Wide, dilated pupils = fear or excitement
- Ears
- Forward = interest or alertness
- Sideways or flat = anxiety, fear, or aggression
- Vocalisations
- Meowing = attention-seeking or hunger
- Purring = contentment (or sometimes pain)
- Hissing or growling = fear or warning
By paying attention to these signs, you can avoid negative interactions and strengthen your bond.
Why Cats Scratch and Hide (And Why That’s Okay)
Many pet owners ask, “Why does my cat scratch furniture or hide under the bed?” These are completely natural feline behaviours, not signs of bad behaviour.
Scratching
- Maintains claw health by removing dead outer layers
- Marks territory using scent glands in the paws
- Provides a full-body stretch
Tip: Place scratching posts near where your cat sleeps or plays to encourage use.
Hiding
- Cats hide when stressed, overwhelmed, or simply resting.
- Enclosed, high, or dark spaces offer a sense of safety and control.
Never punish these behaviours - instead, support them by offering designated scratch zones and hideaways.
Creating a Cat-Friendly Home
Your cat’s environment plays a big role in their happiness. A feline friendly home allows for choice, safety, and stimulation.
Essentials for a Cat-Friendly Space:
- Vertical Space: Provide shelves, window perches, or cat trees. Climbing and observing from above makes cats feel secure.
- Litter Boxes: Follow the rule of one box per cat, plus one. Place them in quiet areas and clean them regularly. Avoid covered boxes if your cat seems reluctant to use them.
- Scent Comfort: Cats rely heavily on familiar smells. Avoid strong air fresheners and let them rub against surfaces to mark their space naturally.
- Interactive Toys: Wand toys, puzzle feeders, and solo play items mimic hunting behaviour and reduce boredom. (CTA BUTTON?)
Enrichment not only keeps cats mentally and physically active, it also helps prevent unwanted behaviours.
When Behaviour Signals a Health Concern
Because cats instinctively hide pain, behavioural changes are often the first sign of illness.
⚠️ Watch for:
- Sudden aggression or social withdrawal
- Going outside the litter box
- Decreased appetite or excessive thirst
- Over grooming or licking one area repeatedly
- New or excessive vocalisation
If you notice these signs, consult your vet. Don’t assume it's “just a phase” - it could be a sign of pain, anxiety, or illness. Early diagnosis makes a big difference.
Happy Cat, Happy Home
Cats are complex, sensitive creatures who thrive in a world that respects their instincts. By understanding how they communicate, what they need, and how to respond to behaviour changes, you can build a strong, rewarding relationship with your feline companion.
