Veterinarians

Different Ways Cats Communicate with Body Language

Do you know that cats use body language to communicate with you and those around them? If you watch your cat closely, you will be able to glean information regarding your pet’s state of mind and emotion, paying particular attention to their eyes, ears, tails, and posture.

Watch for signs of anxiety, pain, and even contentment through cat body language:

Anxiety

How do you tell if your cat is feeling anxious? There are numerous signs; for one thing, you may find that your cat is quieter than normal. Sometimes, cats tap into that urge to flee when feeling stress, so you may notice that they freeze and shirk from view. Some other signs to look for include:

  • Abstaining from normal activities, like using the litterbox or eating. They may lie and wait until the situation or environment has calmed down.
  • Slinking or slowly crawling away, with tail down and ears back.
  • Quick exit from the area.
  • Feet on ground and body crouched, as if waiting to make a fast escape.
  • Also, watch your pet for tremors, trembling, or tensed-up muscles; these are also signs that your cat is feeling anxious and/or frustrated.

 

Pain

Do you know how to tell if your cat is in pain? Pets, especially cats, tend to suffer in silence, so it can be tough to identify whether your pet is uncomfortable. Watch for these signs that your pet could be hurting:

  • Limping.
  • Staying out of sight or hiding.
  • Quiet, less vocal than usual.
  • Ears laid back.
  • Dilated pupils.
  • Squinted eyes.
  • Back rounded or hunched.

 

If you cannot pinpoint the underlying cause of your cat’s discomfort, make sure to contact and visit your veterinarian immediately.

 

Contentment

Okay, so what about signs of your cat’s contentment? There is definitely body language to indicate if your cat is a happy cat; some signs may be vocalization, purring, eye movement, or head-butting. Here are a few more:

  • Sitting or lying still, not tense.
  • Very-little tail movement.
  • Kneading.
  • Rubbing-on objects or individuals.
  • Rolling over to expose belly, which is a sign of trust.
  • If your cat is chill enough to groom themselves in a laid-back manner, they are content. They typically do not groom during moments of heightened anxiety or discomfort.

 

Is your cat trying to tell you something? Call us with your veterinary concerns.

Behavior changes in cats can be quite subtle and can be difficult to notice unless you are really paying attention. Call your veterinarian and voice your concerns to identify how your cat is communicating with you, as well as what they are trying to tell you.

Looking for veterinary care in Columbia, SC? Look no further than CVETS , a brand new, state of the art Emergency Vet and Surgery center. We look forward to meeting and treating your pets!