Growing up, I was always more of a dog person. I didn't like how stand-offish cats were or why they were so skittish around me.
Then a "cat person" explained the appeal to me: Dogs may love you blindly, but when a cat loves and trusts you, you have earned it.
So now I absolutely adore felines! The fact that they're so hard to read actually makes them even more entertaining. They are totally unpredictable. Just look at these kittens who turned their owner's closet into their own apartment complex.
Or look at these two cats who are anything but helpful when their owner tries to make their bed.
The fun of cats is that their intentions are sometimes completely indecipherable — have you ever had a cat drag a dead rodent into the house?
That's why I enlisted the help of Maya Borenstein from LittleThings to make these images. If you're ever wondering what your cat's trying to communicate, you can now find out!
Please SHARE if you love cats!
A Cat's Face
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If you see a cat with his or her ears perked forward, it means that cat is curious about you. Now's a good time to hold out your hand to see if the cat will approach. A shy cat will slowly approach for a sniff, while a friendlier cat may rub against you.
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If a cat's ears are standing straight up and the cat is also sitting straight up, this cat is alert and possibly on the hunt. There's a good chance they've heard something that they want — maybe a bird?
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If a cat's ears are flat back and his or her eyes are wide, they're feeling very nervous or anxious.
Of course, this is just the start! If you'd like to find out what a cat's noises mean, continue reading on the next page.
A Cat's Noises
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It doesn't take a rocket scientist to recognize that a cat is purring because it's pleased, but it's an audible sign to you that they'd like your contact.
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A cat's "meow" can communicate any number of thing. They might be hungry, happy to see you, or just want your attention. Many experts agree that, though kittens meow to get things from their mothers, a cat's meow seems to be specifically for humans, as adult cats do not typically meow at one another.
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If your cat is chattering or making any kind of noise near a window, it means that they've spotted prey.
Even more interesting is what a cat's posture can communicate to you. I had no idea why they show us their backsides! If you'd like to learn more, continue reading on the next page.
A Cat's Posture
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A cat that curls its back and sticks out its fur is trying to make itself seem bigger. It's feeling defensive or scared and hopes that you'll leave it alone.
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Don't be offended when a cat shows his or her rear to you. They're just trying to open up and let you know that they trust you and consider you a friend. Cats sniff each other just like dogs do!
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A cat that has rolled onto its back is ready to play with you. It's eager for some tickling or to get a belly rub.
Make sure you keep reading on the next page. There are still a few more cat behaviors to be explained…
A Cat's Behaviors
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A cat that brings a "gift" of its prey is just trying to show you what a good hunter he is, or especially if it's a she. Cats have natural hunting instincts that they pass on to their kittens. They are just trying to teach their (surrogate) family how to hunt.
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A cat that's rubbing on the table or on you isn't just trying to get a scratch. They now consider this their home and they're leaving their scent to better navigate.
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When cats knead pillows or blankets, it's just their way of getting comfortable.
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Cats love to curl up into boxes and small spaces because it makes them feel safe. It makes them feel as if predators won't be able to find them, but they'll still be able to be alert.
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If you see a cat lying in the "sphinx" position, they're just getting comfortable. If you see your cat lying in this shape, they'll most likely be purring.
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A cat that makes eye contact and then slowly closes their eyes wants something from you, probably some affection. If you do it back to the cat, then you're giving the cat exactly what it wants!
Please SHARE if you find these cat facts as fascinating as we do!
