Experts estimate that 65 to 90 percent of all human communication is through body language.  Since your cat can’t tell you what he or she wants with words, you really need to be able read your pet’s nonverbal signals.

Mieshelle Nagelschneider, a feline behavior consultant, shared the four body posture messages that have helped her clients improve their feline-human relationships. She also suggests responses you can use to reinforce your cat-human bond.

Don’t pet me anymore

“Most of my clients don’t realize that over-stimulating the cat through petting almost always results in a bite,” Nagelschneider says.  “Before this happens, your cat’s tail begins to twitch.  Their ears turn back or flick back and forth. This signal means your cat is preparing to bite.  Because cats are predators, attacking is the release cats have when stimulation is overwhelming, even if that stimulation is pleasurable.”

“The trick,” Nagelschneider says, “is to recognize the signal and stop immediately.”  With practice, you can learn to distinguish the first signs of over-stimulation and stop before your cat is distressed.

Leave me alone, I’m content

“Contented cats sit or lie with the tail curled around the body, paws tucked beneath.  This is an indication to you and to other cats that everything is peaceful and harmonious, and that you are unwelcome visitors.  This is not an invitation to come closer.” Nagelschneider advises to let contented cats lie.

I’m afraid

When cats are afraid, they crouch, often rolled slightly to the side.  They tuck their tail or flatten it against their body, and lay their ears back. Remove the object, dog or small child that’s creating your cat’s reaction.  Allow your cat to retreat and leave her or her alone.  Your pet will come to you when it is ready.

You caught me off guard

Your cat may react defensively or with aggression. Or, it may flip from aggression to defense and back again.

To defend, cats roll onto their backs, claws out. In aggression, the cat will make himself look as large as possible to intimidate an “enemy.”  Techniques that signal increased aggression include turning to the side, arching the back with body fur up, tail upright and fur splayed.  Hissing, yowling or growling usually completes the effect.

Nagelschneider suggests owners never punish a cat for his aggression. Physical punishment teaches your cat that you are to be feared.  In order to avoid aggressive behavior try  speaking to your cat before approaching.

For more help

If you’ve got these four postures down and you feel you and your cat still cross signals, contact Nagelschneider at www.thecatbehaviorclinic.com for a one-on-one consultation. If you prefer reading to talking, try Pam Johnson Bennett’s books at www.pamjohnsonbennett.com.

Share Your Stories

Please share your stories about deciphering cat postures. I’d love to hear from you. Send your stories to feedback@petside.com with “Cat Postures” in the subject line!

Like this article?  Get more training tips in the Treats & Tips section!