How Can You Tell If Your Cat Is Happy?
Anyone who’s ever had a cat will agree: they’re funny creatures. One minute they’re rubbing up against you, the next they’re hiding in the closet. They love to snuggle, but only on their terms. And they seem to want the most attention when you’re running out the door. But that’s what makes them so great.
With all this mixed messaging, how can you tell if your cat is truly happy?
Here are five major signs of a happy (content, pleased, delighted) cat:
1. While the cat is sitting or lying, the tail lies in a relaxed curve.
This means “I’m relaxed and content. Life is good.” When your cat rubs against you, she’s marking you as her territory. Which means she’s claiming you as her possession, and she’s happy in your presence.
2. While the cat stands or walks, the tail stands upright, and it curls into a ‘fish hook’ at the top.
This means “I’m happy to meet you.” A cat who enthusiastically greets you when you first wake up or when you come home from work is saying she’s happy to see you.
3. While the cat walks, the tail stands upright, and the upper third sways slowly and gracefully.
This means “I’m delighted with what I see or smell.” (You can often see this when the cat walks to its feeding bowl when you’ve served its favourite food. A vigorous lashing of the whole tail would mean the cat is angry.) A healthy appetite can also mean your kitty is in a good mood. But if kitty’s appetite is too healthy, do take note it could be a sign she’s bored, depressed, or lonely.
4. The ears point forward.
This means “I like what I observe (especially a sound) and feel positively excited about this.” (Ears back would indicate that the cat is tense about what it observes.) If your cat grooms you, that's quite the compliment! Grooming indicates a deeper level of bond. Your cat is actively treating you as a member of the pride.
5. The cat sleeps and radiates content.
A sleeping cat gives off a happy vibe that most humans can discern. This is because cats enjoy sleeping, and they choose their sleeping place with care (somewhere safe, comfortable, cosy and warm), so if your cat sleeps an appropriate amount of time - she sure is contented! Kneading or “making biscuits” is also a sign of relaxation. When cats knead objects—or people—they are recreating a neonatal behavior. When your cat lies on her back and shows her belly, it’s also a sign she’s content and relaxed.
That said, not all cats behave the same way, so do not worry if your cat is not giving you all of the above signs to show you that they are happy. Looking after your feline friend, giving them nutritious cat food and lots of interaction will ensure that your cat is happy and healthy, and they, in turn, will make you happy with a shared bond of affection! :)