Cat CareMay 31, 2026
Understanding Cat Behavior
Tail flicks, slow blinks, kneading — a guide to reading what your cat is really telling you.
Cats talk — we just have to listen
Tail signals
- Straight up with a slight curl = happy greeting
- Puffed up = scared or startled
- Low and flicking = annoyed or overstimulated
- Tucked under = anxious
Eyes
- Slow blink = "I love you and trust you" — blink back!
- Dilated pupils = excited, scared, or about to play
- Hard stare = warning
Body
- Kneading (making biscuits) = total contentment, a leftover from kittenhood
- Belly up = relaxed and trusting (not always an invitation to rub the belly!)
- Arched back, sideways stance = playful or defensive depending on context
Sounds
- Purring = usually happy, sometimes self-soothing when sick
- Chirping at birds = hunting instinct
- Yowling = needs attention, in heat, or feeling unwell
The more time you spend watching your cat, the more fluent you'll become.
