Cats have always had a reputation for being standoffish.
In an article from The Guardian, clinical veterinarian Karen Hiestand of the University of Sussex state1, “Cats are not social. They do not need friends.” Unlike dogs who enthusiastically jump, lick, and fawn all over their owners, cats can seem standoffish, making it a little harder to know when they’re truly happy and content.
As a cat owner, you want nothing more than to ensure your feline friend is happy, healthy, and thriving.
By observing these nine telltale signs, you can gain insight into your cat’s emotional state and confirm that they are indeed a happy kitty.
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1. Purring
One of the most well-known signs of a happy cat is purring. This low, rumbling sound is made when your cat is feeling content and relaxed. However, did you know that cats can purr for different reasons?
While most purring indicates happiness, cats may also purr when they’re hungry, stressed, or even in pain. To distinguish between these types of purring, pay attention to the context and your cat’s body language.
2. Kneading
Have you ever noticed your cat pushing their paws in and out against a soft surface, like a blanket or your lap?
This behavior, often referred to as “making biscuits,” is a leftover instinct from kittenhood. (ref) When nursing, kittens knead their mother’s belly to stimulate milk flow. As adult cats, kneading is a sign of contentment and happiness, often accompanied by purring.
3. Rubbing Against You
If your cat starts rubbing their face and body against your legs, it’s not just them being quirky.
Cats have scent glands on their cheeks, head, and body that release pheromones. Rubbing against you is their way of marking you as familiar and part of their territory. It shows a high level of trust, comfort, and happiness when they’re with you.
4. Relaxed Body Language
A happy cat’s body language is relaxed and at ease. Some signs to look for include:
- Forward-facing ears
- A tail held high, with a slight curve at the tip
- Soft, relaxed eyes with a slow blink (often called a “cat kiss“)
- A calm, relaxed posture
In contrast, a stressed or anxious cat may have flattened ears, a twitching tail, dilated pupils, and a tense, crouched posture.
5. Belly Display
While exposing their belly can sometimes be a sign of playfulness or a request for belly rubs, it’s also a sign of trust and contentment when your cat lounges with their belly exposed. This vulnerable position means they feel safe and secure in their surroundings.
6. Playful Behavior
A happy cat is often a playful cat. If your feline friend engages in playful activities, chases toys, or initiates playtime, it’s a good indication that they’re feeling happy and energetic. So, grab their favorite toy and have some fun!
7. Sleeping Near You
Cats who feel safe, secure, and content will often sleep near their owners. If your cat chooses to snooze on your lap, at your feet, or curled up right next to you, it indicates they see you as part of their family group.
This is a big sign of trust and happiness when your cat lets their guard down to nap with you nearby.
8. Good Appetite
A healthy appetite and willingness to be fed by you demonstrates that your cat is feeling happy and comfortable. Lack of appetite could potentially signal an underlying health issue, so be sure to monitor their eating habits.
But in general, a cat happily chowing down on their meals is a good indicator that all is well in their world.
9. Bringing You “Gifts”
While it may not be the most pleasant sign of affection, if your cat brings you “gifts” like toys or even prey, it’s a sign that they feel content and bonded to you. This behavior stems from a cat’s natural hunting instinct and their desire to provide for their family. (ref)
By presenting you with these “gifts,” your cat is showing that they see you as a part of their family and want to share their bounty with you.
Understanding Your Cat’s Happiness Cues
Cats may not wear their hearts on their sleeves, but they have their own special ways of showing us that they’re happy and content.
If you pay attention to these 9 telltale signs, you can gain a better understanding of your cat’s emotional state and ensure that they are happy and thriving.
Remember, every cat is unique, and some may display these signs more prominently than others. The key is to get to know your individual cat’s personality and behavior patterns and to provide them with a safe, stimulating environment that meets their physical and emotional needs.
Source:
- https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/dec/08/the-inner-lives-of-cats-what-our-feline-friends-really-think-about-hugs-happiness-and-humans
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.