Cat Behavior & Gesture Guide | How to Correctly Interpret Your Cat's Feelings

How Cats "Speak"—Diverse Communication Methods

Cats evolved as solitary predators, so they haven't developed communication as socially sophisticated as dogs. However, through long coexistence with humans, they have developed **unique communication behaviors directed toward humans**. By correctly interpreting your cat's actions, you can deepen your bond of trust with your beloved pet.

Types and Meanings of Vocalizations

Cat vocalizations can be broadly divided into four types: "meows (meow)", "growls (urrr)", "hisses (hiss)", and "purring (purring)".

**Meow-type vocalizations** are primarily communication directed at humans. A short "mya" is a greeting or light request, a long "myaaaao" is a strong demand (for food, play), and a high "nyan" is an appeal or call. Adult cats basically don't vocalize toward other cats. "Meowing" is communication that developed through coexistence with humans.

**Purring (purring)** is a sound produced by rapid contraction and relaxation of throat muscles and occurs not only when cats are relaxed, but also **under stress, during illness, and during childbirth**. Research suggests that high-frequency purring (25–50Hz) may aid bone repair and muscle recovery.

Reading Your Cat's Feelings Through Gestures

**Slow blink**: When a cat watches you intently while blinking slowly, it's a sign of "I trust you · I feel affection for you." Returning the same slow blink can deepen your bond of trust.

**Belly display (belly up)**: Showing the extremely vulnerable belly is the ultimate sign of "I trust you." However, note that **this doesn't necessarily mean they want to be petted**. Some cats dislike belly touches and set up an "abdominal trap" by biting when their belly is touched.

**Tail signals**: A tail held high is a sign of friendliness, confidence, and joy. A fluffy, puffed-up tail indicates anger or fear. Vigorous side-to-side swishing is a sign of irritation (opposite meaning from dogs).

**Ear position**: Ears pointing forward indicate relaxation and interest. Ears to the sides (airplane ears) are signs of stress, dissatisfaction, or anger.

Reasons for Biting and How to Handle It

There are multiple reasons why cats bite: - **Play biting**: A continuation of the sensation of playing with siblings during kittenhood. Kittens bite "without restraint" because they don't understand pain. - **Overstimulation-induced aggression (OAS)**: Biting when overstimulated from too much petting. If your cat's tail begins swishing while being petted, it's a sign to stop petting. - **Fear and defense**: Defensive biting when a cat feels cornered.

If bitten, leave the area quietly without making noise. Desensitization training that teaches "the game ends when I bite" is effective.

Understanding Marking Behavior

**Head bunting (bunting)**: Rubbing scent glands (under the chin, forehead, cheeks) to mark territory—a sign of affection and possession meaning "you are mine." A cat that head bunts you shows deep trust.

**Kneading (kneading)**: Alternately pressing the front paws, a remnant from kittenhood when kittens stimulated their mother's mammary glands. Cats do this when feeling safe and content.

Conclusion—Deepening Your Relationship by "Listening" to Cat Language

Cat gestures, facial expressions, and vocalizations carry rich meaning. Observing your cat's behavior and trying to understand its intentions is the first step in building a relationship of trust. Your cat watches you carefully. Observe your cat in turn, and build a relationship where you truly understand each other.