A cat’s body language can be difficult to decipher at times, but understanding what their posture tells you can help you better understand your feline friend. Cats use a variety of postures to convey different emotions and feelings, and it’s important to be able to read these cues to know how your cat is feeling. Here are some common cat postures and what they mean.

The Relaxed Cat

When your cat is relaxed and happy, they will have a loose posture with their bodies at ease. You may also notice their tail is pointing downwards and slightly curved at the end. Their ears will be positioned normally, and their eyes will be partially closed. This is a good sign that your cat is content and feels safe in their surroundings.

The Arched Back Cat

When a cat raises their back and arches it, they are either startled or frightened. This is often accompanied by the hair on their tail and body standing up. This posture is meant to make them appear bigger and more intimidating as a way to protect themselves against perceived threats.

The Defensive Cat

A defensive cat will often be hunched over, with their ears pinned back, and their pupils dilated. You may also notice their claws are extended and their tail is fluffed up. This posture is a clear indication that your cat is feeling threatened and may become aggressive if approached.

The Hunting Cat

When your cat is in hunting mode, they will have a low crouch with their back legs tensed, ready to pounce. Their tail will be still, and their eyes focused on their prey, often dilated. This posture is an indication that your cat is in hunting mode and should be left alone to do their thing.

The Playful Cat

A playful cat will have a relaxed crouch with their front paws stretched out. Their tail will be slightly curved, and their ears will be positioned normally. This posture is an indication that your cat is feeling playful and wants to engage with you.

The Stalking Cat

When your cat is stalking, they will have a low crouch with their tail held still and their eyes focused on their prey. Their ears may be positioned slightly forward, and their back legs will be tensed, ready to pounce. This posture indicates that your cat is about to pounce, so it’s best to stay out of their way.

The Agitated Cat

When your cat is agitated, they may have a stiff posture with their ears pinned back, tail twitching, and pupils dilated. This posture is often accompanied by growling or hissing and is an indication that your cat is feeling stressed or annoyed. It’s best to give your cat some space and let them cool down.

The Friendly Cat

A friendly cat will approach with a relaxed posture, tail slightly curved, and may rub their head or chin against you. Their ears may be positioned normally, and their pupils will be small to medium in size. This posture is an indication that your cat is feeling friendly and wants attention.

Understanding your cat’s body language is an essential part of building a strong bond with your feline friend. By learning to read their postures and cues, you can better understand their emotional state and respond accordingly. Remember that each cat is unique, and their body language may vary slightly, so take the time to observe and learn your cat’s unique cues.