Communication
Understanding Cat Body Language
Tail position, ear angle, pupil size and the slow blink — what cats are actually telling you.
The tail is the headline
An upright tail with a slight hook is a friendly greeting. A low or tucked tail signals worry, a puffed tail signals fear, and a fast thrashing tail means stop what you are doing now.
Ears, eyes and whiskers
Ears rotating sideways or flattening indicate rising anxiety or irritation. Dilated pupils in normal light suggest arousal — excitement or fear. A slow blink is a genuine affiliative signal, and you can return it.
Petting-induced overstimulation
Many cats enjoy brief contact and then suddenly object. Watch for skin twitching, tail flicking and ears turning back, and stop before the cat has to tell you more firmly. Cats overwhelmingly prefer being stroked around the cheeks and chin rather than the belly or the base of the tail.
Purring is not always contentment
Cats also purr when stressed, injured or unwell, apparently as a self-soothing behaviour. Interpret purring alongside posture, appetite and everything else the cat is doing.