When cats are happy or during their playtime, they often wag their tails slowly in a waving motion from side to side. They could just be in a good mood, or they could be focusing on something, whether it is a bird outside the window or a toy you are waving at them.
When your cat slowly swishes their tail from side to side, they may be intently focused on something like a toy, another animal in the home, or something outside. They may be about to pounce!
“When the tail is fully and rapidly wagging, they are about to attack prey or another cat,” DeVoss says. Similarly, Roth says that a cat swishing its tail while looking at a toy or another cat probably means it's about to jump and play. Speed of tail swishing can also indicate your pet's emotional state of mind.
When a cat wags its tail and purrs at the same time, it is often a sign that the cat is feeling happy and content. The wagging tail can be a sign of excitement, while the purring can be a sign of relaxation.
When a cat shows you their belly, the cat is relaxed, comfortable, and doesn't feel threatened. They feel safe enough to expose their vulnerable areas without worrying about being attacked. They are pretty much telling you, “I trust you with my life.” It's a great honour!
To show affection
Licking is not only a grooming mechanism but also a way cats show that they love you. Your cat is creating a social bond by licking you, other cats, or pets. This sign of affection may stem from kittenhood when your cat's mother licked them to groom them and show care and affection.
If your cat sleeps on your bed, he may choose a position that lets him see out your bedroom door more easily. If he's curled up in a ball under your bed or in a quiet corner, then he may be hiding. Cats who sleep under the covers might love being close to you, or they might be hiding to feel safer.
They have relaxed body language
If your cat tends to sit like a perfect loaf, with their paws tucked under their body, their tail wrapped around them, and their eyes closed or softly open, these are all signs that they are feeling happy and comfortable in their environment.
Yes! According to Teresa Manucy, DVM, a veterinarian at VCA Fleming Island Animal Hospital, cats can recognize and differentiate their name from other household pets' names. She says this recognition is likely due to positive reinforcement or a cat's association of their name with attention, food, or play.
Cheek rubs and head-butts
Both are ways in which cats build bonds and affection with other animals and by extension, with the humans they do it to.
Rubbing: Affectionate Ownership
It's their way of saying, "Hey, I claim you as mine!" They transfer their scent onto you, almost like marking you as their own. Whether it's a full-body rub or just a gentle forehead or cheek nuzzle, cats are declaring their ownership and seeking your undivided attention.
Yeah, me too and it's clear that cats react to their human's voice. "Cats can distinguish human emotional state based on the tone of voice, or if the human is making "sad" or "happy" sounds," McGowan says.
It's quite common for a cat to give their owner a lick or two on the hand, arm, or even on the cheek. For cats, licking is mostly a sign of affection or a method of cleaning, since cats lick themselves (or their kittens) in order to groom. However, cats will also lick each other to show various types of affection.
Sleeping with you provides them with security and an extra defense if a predator should launch a nighttime attack. They sleep with you because they trust you, they know you're not a danger and you can also provide an extra layer of defense if needed.
Strengthens the bond – Cats who sleep with their humans are closer to them. This comfortable snuggle helps them feel more trust and safety with their owners. It's warm – For those who get cold easily, a cat in the bed is the perfect feet warmer.
A cat's favorite person may be the one who makes them feel comfortable and safe just by being in the same room with them. Over time, you and your cat will learn how to best communicate with each other.
Cats will miss their owners when they are gone, but the response to a cat missing you may vary. Some kitties may express their sadness through purring, meowing, or following their owner around, while others may show no outward signs of sadness. Here are some common signs your cat missed you: Meowing and Crying.
This isn't because they're pernickety, but because they're keeping themselves safe. Cats feel vulnerable in these situations; and a covered litter box gives them a sense of security. You, on the other hand, aren't in need of that extra measure of safety, hence your cat thinks it's okay to follow you to the bathroom!
Cats are often considered to be uncaring or disinterested toward their human family members, but this isn't true. Although cats don't need as much constant attention as most dogs, they do connect and bond with their humans, and they feel unhappy when separated for too long.
The truth is, many cats HATE to be hugged. They don't like being held against their will, and especially not in a firm fashion.
In a multi-human household, it seems that cats will choose one family member they want to spend more of their time with. According to a study done by the nutrition company, Canadae, they discovered that the person who makes the most effort is the favorite.
When your cat is snuggling up to you, it's pretty obvious she's displaying her thanks for all that you do. Kisses, in the form of gentle licks or full-on grooming, are that extra special way she shows you thanks. In a cat's world, to groom is to be grateful.