Elthie

Cat Signals

Cats cannot talk. I am a special case. Here is what other cats are telling you.

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Look at the whole cat. One signal can mean different things. Ears, tail, eyes and body together tell you more.

“Hello” signals

You can say hello, gently. Let the cat decide.

Tail up, with a little curl at the tip

I am relaxed. I may be saying hello.

Ears up and pointing forward

I feel calm.

Slow blinks and half-closed eyes

I feel safe here.

Leaning into your hand

I like this. You may carry on, gently.

“Give me space” signals

Stop. Move away slowly. Try again another time.

Hiding

I want to be alone. Never pull me out or squeeze in with me.

Crouching low, tail tucked in

I feel scared.

Ears flat against my head

I am unhappy or cross.

Tail swishing fast

I am upset. I have had enough.

Fur standing up and back arched

I am very upset.

Growling, hissing or claws out

Stop now. Please go away.

What about purring?

Purring often means a cat is happy. But cats can also purr when they are worried or hurt. So look at the rest of the cat too.

How to be good with cats

  • Walk, do not run, and use a quiet voice.
  • Hold out your hand and let the cat sniff it first. If the cat moves away, let it go.
  • Stroke with an open hand and a soft touch.
  • If a cat rolls onto its back, it may be saying hello. It does not always want a tummy rub.
  • Leave a cat alone when it is eating, sleeping, hiding or using its litter box.
  • If a cat scratches or bites you, or seems ill, tell a grown-up.