According to the American Pet Products Association, around 100 million people across the globe live alongside cats. While these furry friends are known for their loyalty and affection, improving your communication with them can truly enhance your connection.
By learning what works—and what doesn't—along with patience and consistent training, you’ll become better at reading your cat’s behavior and guiding them in a positive way.
Don't Judge Cats By Their Looks
Remember, cats don't express themselves the way humans do—they rarely use facial expressions to reveal their emotions. Instead, they rely on other cues to show if they’re feeling affectionate or defensive.
So, try not to judge your cat just by how they look. Instead, pay attention to their actions and body language to truly grasp their mood.
Cats Like A Quiet Tone
It's totally normal for owners to get frustrated now and then, but loud voices and harsh sounds can really stress out cats.
Try to keep your tone calm and gentle when you speak to your feline friend. Soft, quiet words help comfort them and create a sense of safety and calm.
Know How To Introduce Them To New Animals
For those who adore animals, having several pets is often second nature. Still, bringing a new animal into your home can stir up anxiety for your cat.
To ease the transition, start by introducing the new pet to your cat gradually. Arrange a few short, supervised outdoor encounters first, then carefully observe their behavior when the newcomer joins the household.
They Love Singing
Cats usually express their affection most when they feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. Owners have various ways to foster this sense of security, and one easy approach is through singing.
Gently sing lullabies throughout your home and notice how peacefully your cat responds.
Keep An Eye On Their Body Language
Cat owners gain a lot by closely observing their pet's body language. For instance, when a cat’s tail curls like a question mark, it usually means they’re feeling calm and sociable.
Conversely, ears flattened against the head often show that the cat is irritated or uneasy. If your feline seems distressed, it’s best to approach slowly and softly to help prevent adding to their anxiety.
How To Get Rid Of Their Stress
When a cat starts misbehaving, stress is often the underlying cause. The first step for owners is to identify what might be triggering their anxiety.
Common stressors include changes like moving to a new home or introducing another pet into the environment. After pinpointing the issue, you can help soothe your cat by offering comfort—whether through gentle petting or a favorite treat.
Why A Cat May Wag Their Tail
Unlike dogs, who often wag their tails as a sign of excitement and playfulness, cats use tail wagging to express irritation.
If you notice your cat swishing its tail, it's likely feeling annoyed. Try to pinpoint the source of their frustration and take steps to address it.
Be Happy If Your Cat Kneads
Cats have many ways of showing affection, but kneading is one of the clearest signs. This instinctive behavior begins in kittenhood.
Young kittens knead their mother's belly while nursing, and when adult cats continue this action with their humans, it’s a strong indication of love and comfort.
Do Not Yell At Your Cat
When pets misbehave, some owners might be tempted to discipline them right away.
But it's crucial to avoid yelling, scolding, or spraying your cat with water, as these actions can create fear and anxiety. A frightened cat may respond defensively, which can include biting.
Blinking Is A Big Deal For Cats
How quickly you blink can have a big impact on cats. They tend to respond better to slow blinking.
When you blink slowly, cats often feel more at ease and are more likely to come closer. This gentle blink is something they interpret like a smile. Though it may seem subtle, it can be the key to whether your cat feels comfortable enough to approach you.
Avoid Staring Directly At Your Cat
One of the most threatening gestures for a cat is direct eye contact. This can make them feel very anxious and uncomfortable.
Staring at a cat often tells them that you are looking to cause trouble, which can make them act out. It's perfectly fine to look at them every now and then, but staring is a bit much for them.
Avoid Laser Pointers
Cats typically enjoy some playtime, but there are certain activities that should be avoided. One of the least suitable toys for a cat is a laser pointer.
Chasing a target they can never catch can lead to frustration and potentially obsessive behaviors in your pet.
Be Cautious When Petting Your Cat
An animal behavior science professor advises being mindful when petting your cat.
The key is to pet them a few times and then pause. By observing their response, you'll know whether they want you to continue or if they prefer some space.
Scents Go A Long Way With Cats
If your cat isn't following you around the house, it might be a good idea to use a diffuser. When cats rub their faces against objects, they release a pheromone.
Certain diffusers mimic this pheromone, drawing your cat into the room. The scent promotes a calm and contented atmosphere for them.
Keep The House Warm
Since house cats are descendants of wild animals such as cheetahs and pumas, they want to live in a warm environment.
The ideal temperature for a cat is between 86 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. While many probably don't want their house that warm, it can be helpful to keep a heating pad nearby for them.
Use Clickers To Train Your Cat
Most pet stores have clickers available for training. However, other tools can be helpful as well.
It's recommended to have a long stick with a toy at the end. Every time the pet touches its nose to the end of the stick, use the clicker. Then, reward them with a treat.
Give Your Cat Special Attention
Giving your cat special attention is a giant sign of love that they will appreciate. Doing things such as cleaning their coat and removing their shedding hair helps them stay healthy.
Other ways you can show attention is by giving them cuddles, taking them for a brief walk, or letting them sleep on a special pillow near you.
The Right Way To Massage Your Cat
When you know that your cat is comfortable around you, it may want a quick pet or massage. It's important to know the right way to give them one.
Touching them from nose to tail is the best way to give them a massage. Not only is it relaxing, but it can help lower their blood pressure.
Find Your Cats A Fun Toy
In order to have a happy and healthy cat, it's best to prevent them from being bored. One way to curb their boredom is to get them an interactive and stimulating cat toy.
Also, a good toy can serve as an outlet for predatory behavior, reduce their stress, and provide them with physical exercise.
Why Cats Licks Themselves
It may seem annoying when your cat is licking their fur, but they have a reason for doing so.
Licking their fur promotes the production of sebum, which is an oily fluid that helps them maintain healthy skin. Not only does it protect their fur, but it eliminates loose hair, mats, dirt, and parasites.
Keep Snacks Around
If you want to show your cat you love them, one way to get their attention is through treats.
While you should not go overboard, letting them have a treat every now and then for good behavior is something they will love. It's best to avoid human food and stick to snacks specifically made for cats.
Tips For Holding Your Cat
While it may be fun to hold your cat and carry them around, there are certain things people shouldn't do when picking them up.
Cats should be held carefully but not too tight. If they're held too tight, it can be seen as a sign of aggression, which can lead to scratching or biting.
How Cats Mark Territory
If a cat feels threatened by another animal, it will do its best to mark its territory. One way they do this is to urinate, spray, or deposit feces in a specific spot.
However, if this behavior is ongoing, it may be a sign of a urinary tract or bladder infection.
The "Purrfect" Way To Greet A Cat
Since cats often greet each other by touching noses, humans should try to replicate this when greeting their cats.
You can do this by curling your index finger and slowly extending it to touch the cat's nose. This gives your cat a way to greet you in their own language.
Make A High-Pitched Sound If Your Cat Gets Too Rough
When cats participate in playtime, they can get a bit rowdy. This can lead to them acting out by biting your fingers or toes, which they may mistake for a toy.
When they first start doing this, the best thing to do is make a high-pitched yelp. This tells them that it hurts and that they should back off.
Why Your Cat May Show You Their Belly
It may seem playful for a cat to roll over and expose their belly. This gesture is most likely their way of telling you that they want attention.
Just by them rolling over and showing their belly, it is their way of saying they trust you and are putting themselves in a vulnerable position.
Meows Are Special
Owners are probably used to hearing their cats meow, but that sound is only reserved for humans. According to Pet MD, cats rarely meow at each other.
A meow from a cat can mean dozens of things, such as asking for attention, food, or wanting to be pet. Try to listen closely because each meow is different.
Chattering Is A Good Sign
Cats can make all sorts of noises; one of the good ones is chattering. This noise is very common when cats greet their owners at the door or when they follow them around the house.
Chattering is a cat's way of talking in a friendly manner and shows that they're interested in interacting with you.
Purrs Can Mean A Bunch Of Things
Those who own cats have often heard them purr but may not know why. Purrs are usually a sign of comfort and security.
However, cats will purr for other reasons, such as feeling sick or after they get injured. Purring is a way for them to comfort themselves, but it's also a sign of affection.
Repetition Is Key For Cats
One of the ways cats learn is through repetition. For example, if you repeat the word "up" when they climb up to sit on the couch, they will associate that word with being able to sit there.
According to Love Ferplast, repeating the same word several times makes the cat associate the sound of the word with actions.