Would you like to know what your cat is thinking? You can
never be sure what's on her mind. But if you know what to
look for, most felines have body language that will give
up a clue. When your cat behaves in these ways, here's what
she might be trying to tell you.
--CONTENTMENT:
Your cat is most likely to look happy when she is lying
down, looking at you directly. Her eyes may be half-closed,
her tail relaxed, and her ears are upright.
--PLAYFULNESS:
When your kitty wants to play, she may bat a toy with her
front paws, keeping her claws withdrawn so that no one will
be scratched. Sometimes she will roll over onto her back,
but this position can lead to aggressive behavior.
--AGGRESSIVENESS:
It is very common for your cat to roll onto her back, looking
as if she wants to have her tummy rubbed. But, watch out!
This is the best position for her to scratch, bite and grab
your hand with all four of her feet. Playing can turn into
unfriendly behavior very suddenly. A twitching tail usually
means that your cat is becoming aggravated. This is a
warning that she should be left alone.
--FEAR:
Cats who are afraid can become aggressive. Danger signs are
ears flattened back against the head, and a high pitched
"growl." Other cats who are fearful often hide in a safe,
quite place.
--POSSESSIVENESS:
When a cat rubs her face and body against you, it is actually
a back-handed compliment. You cat is "marking" you as a part
of her special family. While she's telling you that she
likes you, she's also saying that she owns you.
Cats will always be somewhat of a mystery to us. And after
all, isn't that one of the reasons that we love them so?
