What does my cat's body language mean?

A cat's body language can be subtle, so it's not always easy to accurately read how they're feeling. To understand your cat's psychology, look at his or her eyes, tail, mouth and posture and use this guide to help you recognise important body language signals.

A happy cat

These cats are relaxed and happy.

Cat standing illustration showing happy.

Cat is standing

A relaxed body posture, ears are in a natural position, tail is held upright with the tip of the tail curved, eyes are normal shape, mouth is closed.

Illustration of a cat lying down demonstrating that their happy.

Cat is lying down

The belly is exposed, body posture is relaxed, body is stretched out, ears are in a natural position, eyes may be partly closed, mouth is closed.

An illustration of a cat sitting demonstrating that their happy.

Cat is sitting

The body posture is relaxed, tail is held out loosely from body, ears are in natural position, eyes are a normal shape, mouth is closed.

A worried cat

These cats are telling you that they're uncomfortable and don't want you near them.

An illustration of a cat demonstrating that they're worried by crouching.

Cat is in a crouched position

A relaxed body posture, ears are in a natural position, tail is held upright with the tip of the tail curved, eyes are normal shape, mouth is closed.

An illustration of a cat demonstrating that they're worried by hiding under something.

Cat is worried

Cats who are worried or anxious may hide.

An angry or very unhappy cat

These cats aren't happy and want you to stay away or go away.

Cat illustration demonstrating angry by lying down with ears flattened.

Cat is lying down

Its body is flattened, ears are flattened to the head, pupils are dilated, tail is held tightly into body, body is tense, limbs are held tight and close to body.

Cat illustration demonstrating an angry cat with ears back and tail waving.

Cat is lying down

Its body is flattened, ears are flattened to the head and drawn back, body is slightly rolled over to one side, pupils are dilated, mouth is open and tense, teeth are showing.

Cat illustration showing an angry cat demonstrated through raising their back and mouth open.

Cat is standing

Its back is arched, body is held sideways, hair is raised, posture is tense, front paw is slightly lifted off the ground (ready to swipe if needed), ears are lowered and pointing out to the side, mouth is open and tense, teeth are showing, tail is tense.

If you're concerned about your cats behaviour, speak to your vet first. They may refer you to an animal behaviourist.