DOG:

When your dog touches you respectfully with his paw, he is showing
his deep affection for you – a sign of appreciation. He wants to signal
to you that he likes you and feels comfortable with you. It’s a really
nice feeling when you get this kind of appreciation.

In certain situations, your dog may try to take control. This instinct can
be especially evident when you give him treats or praise him for
something. In this case, he will put his paw on you as a sign of
dominance and authority. By the way, putting your paw on your dog as
a sign of dominance can also often be seen in dogs with each other.

Sometimes your dog just puts his paw on you as a sign of closeness
and security. This is his way of expressing that he is comfortable right
now – a sign of comfort. He wants to snuggle up to you and feel safe.
Such a gesture is particularly reassuring and gives man and dog the
feeling of a good bond with each other.
What does it mean when my dog puts his paw on me? (msn.com)

We also know that dogs experience an increased heart rate when around their
favourite canine friends. But did you know that your canine pal might also try to
herd you as a sign of affection? PureWow revealed that particularly dogs that are
part of the Herding Group experience this behaviour. So that means corgis, cattle
dogs, and every registered Belgian dog breed that has the instinct to wrangle
groups into organised pods will do this.
Though it's funny to experience your dog trying to herd you, this is a behaviour
rooted in affection. Herding dogs care about their charges and don’t want anyone
to get lost. When your favourite furry friend is herding you, it means they are
observant and notice where you move - and they want to protect you.
The UK Kennel Club also revealed that your dog will also follow you around if
they love you. As social animals, dogs love being around others. "If your dog
follows you everywhere then it's a sign that they trust and love you and that you
make them feel safe." If that doesn't make your heart explode with love for your
pup, then what will?
Subtle sign your dog is deeply in love with you - and it's very funny to observe - Mirror Online
Signs your dog is dangerous from hiding to gesture
mistaken for friendliness
There is an official banned breeds list in the UK which sees four dogs - pit bull
terrier, Japanese Tosa, Dogo Argentino and Fila Brasileiro - banned under
the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act. However amid the list's increasing attention
following terrifying incidents, experts are warning the public of its inaccuracy.
Battersea's canine behaviourist and training manager, Rob Bays, says there
are many faults with the 'old-fashioned' list, while he outlines body language
signals for the public to look out for if a dog looks like a potential threat. Battersea
Dogs & Cats Home is just one of the many animal charities and organisations
urging lawmakers to review and change the "outdated" breed-specific legislation
(BSL). Rob said: "The law came into play a long time ago and since we've seen
3,000 exempt dogs on the list. Whilst the breed has been previously believed to
be the indicator, it doesn't actually come into it.
"Fundamentally, it's about responsible pet ownership and educating yourself on
the characteristics of your pet. The dog's environment has a huge impact."
Battersea is in favour of scrapping the BSL entirely and instead believes it's
important to educate the public on body language signs a dog may act
aggressively. Rob explained: "It all comes down to people understanding their
dogs.
"If we can educate people and encourage everybody to take that approach, we
should be able to reduce the amount of attacks." He explains that it is possible to
prevent a dog from becoming dangerous in the first place.
"When you're looking at which breed to get, consider your lifestyle and do your
research. You want to make sure your dog will fit in with your life," Rob advised. A
positive upbringing will increase your dog's chances of feeling confident in new
situations.
As well as preventing dogs from becoming dangerous, it is possible to train an
aggressive dog to act safely. "There's a capacity to put training in place for dogs
that have displayed aggressive behaviour," Rob said. "For example, muzzles
have a negative connotation but they are a great safety tool."
If you own a dog that has acted dangerously, first you should seek professional
advice and safeguard yourself, other dogs and members of the public. A private
trainer or a behaviourist at a local animal rescue centre can give you the guidance
you need.
Signs your dog is dangerous from hiding to gesture mistaken for friendliness - Mirror Online
Think your dog is sweet, innocent
and harmless? Think again
New research from Edge Hill University, Lancashire, found that owners
often hold a “misguided anthropomorphic view” of their dogs, failing
to recognise behaviour that would trigger the animal to snap or bite.

The survey of 1,535 people discovered that nearly half, 44 per cent,
wrongly believed dogs try to be gentle and avoid biting children, even
though there is no evidence that is the case.

Many also thought that dogs would not attack children if their parents
were present, which again is not true, while most thought that their
animal was better behaved than the average dog.

More than 80 per cent of respondents said their dog was unlikely to
engage in a way that was likely to cause injury and believed their pet
would not become agitated from known triggers, such as kissing or
hugging a dog, or confiscating something from it.

The survey also showed that although most owners thought they
were good at interpreting canine signals, most could not spot
aggressive signs beyond obvious cues such as bared teeth.

Many were not able to pick up on subtle signs of anxiety, such as the
ears being pinned back, or a tense jaw and body.

A significant number said they would cuddle or stroke a worried dog,

even though it increases the risk of being bitten. Most dog bites
happen in the family home with a familiar dog.

Prof Claire Parkinson, the co-director of Edge Hill’s centre for human
animal studies, said: “The data highlights people’s inclination to
perceive dogs as inherently gentle or humanised.

“However, the reality is that dogs, even well-trained ones, can pose a
risk, particularly around children who haven’t been taught how to
interact with them. Many seem to think dogs will respond differently to
children. But of course, dogs don’t discriminate.
“People also really overestimate their ability to read a dog’s body
language, and struggle to interpret more subtle signs of stress and
discomfort.

“We know that dogs seldomly act aggressively without warning, but a
lot of responders failed to spot those warning signs, and actually had
the potential to escalate the dogs’ distress.”

The number of dog attacks recorded by police in England and Wales

has risen by more than a third in the past five years, from 16,000 to
22,000 in 2022, costing the NHS more than £70 million a year.

Spate of fatal dog attacks

There have been several fatal dog attacks already this year. In
January, Natasha Johnson was mauled to death as she walked a pack of
dogs in Caterham, Surrey.

The following month, Alice Stones, 4, was killed by a family pet in

Milton Keynes.

In May, Jonathan Hogg, 37, suffered fatal bite wounds from a dog
attack in Leigh, Greater Manchester.

Last week, a 70-year-old grandmother was killed by a dog in Bedworth,

Warwickshire as she sunbathed.

The number of dogs removed from their owners also rose by 26 per
cent since 2018, with 3,500 animals seized by police last year, and
there has been a 24 per cent rise in pet abandonment.

Experts said that the pandemic was partially behind the increase
because puppies bought in lockdown were not socialised around
people or other dogs.

Under the Dangerous Dogs Act, pitbull terriers, Japanese tosas, dogo
Argentinos and fila Brasilerios are banned. However, experts said the
focus should be placed on legislating against bad owners, not dog
breeds.
Calls to bring back dog licences
The team at Edge Hill has called on the Government to bring back dog
licences, which were scrapped in 1982, as well as more community
training.

Prof Parkinson said: “We are in the middle of a companion dog crisis.
There were 3.2 million puppies born during the pandemic, and people
couldn’t access trainers and behaviourists. So it certainly had a huge
impact and we are seeing the results of that now.

“Dog attacks are rising despite dangerous dogs legislation which has
focussed on breed, even though it is a very poor predictor of
aggressiveness. We need to shift the focus from the breed to the
owner, and increase awareness of dog bite risk.

“A public information campaign and improved access to dog training

would definitely help to address some of the current issues.”

The research will be presented at an event in Edge Hill, Public

Perceptions of Dangerous Dogs and Dog Risk, on June 12.

Think your dog is sweet, innocent and harmless? Think again (msn.com)

**Master’s video talk on not hugging dogs

https://suprememastertv.com/en1/v/194923077221.html
19:11min -25:56min

Your dog might be in distress if you spot this subtle

sign in their behaviour
There's a subtle sign to know when your furry friend is distressed and needs
some love and attention. A classic canine expression of fear, anxiety, and
discomfort in dogs is what's known as "whale eye". When dogs display a whale
eye, it means they could feel threatened so owners will need to remove their
precious pets from a certain environment.
For many dogs, being around a stressed family member can affect them as well
as a change in routine, such as a reduced amount of exercise. A pooch can also
become stressed when they are bored, frustrated, scared, or anxious.
The way to spot whale eye is if a dog shows the white part of its eyes.
A psychologist explained: "Dogs will often show what is commonly called a 'half-
moon eye' or 'whale eye' which is where you can see the white portion of the eyes
at the corner or the rim."
Writing in Psychology Today, psychologist Stanley Coren shared another
behavioural trait which indicates if your canine companion is under stress. The
pro said: "The most common sign of anxiety is when the dog turns his head away
from whatever is bothering or worrying him, sometimes also closing his eyes, at
least partially. Another sign is when "dog's ears are lowered or slicked against the
side of his head. Lip licking or licking a person's face can also be signs of anxiety,
as can yawning or raising one paw."
The expert warned that hugging your dog can, in fact, result in its stress levels
soaring, and could potentially lead to biting. Cohen added: "Dogs are technically
cursorial animals, which is a term that indicates that they are designed for swift
running. That implies that in times of stress or threat, the first line of defence that
a dog uses is not his teeth, but rather his ability to run away."
"Behaviourists believe that depriving a dog of that course of action by
immobilising him with a hug can increase his stress level and, if the dog's anxiety
becomes significantly intense, he may bite." According to the Blue Cross, the
best way to keep dogs calm is through exercise, and walking, to stay nice and
calm, and keep them entertained.
Your dog might be in distress if you spot this subtle sign in their behaviour - Mirror Online

Dogs TV channel: DogTV set

to launch to help with stress
and behavioural problems
Man's best friend no longer has to put up with joining
humans on the sofa for soaps or the latest binge-watch
series - soon the nation's dogs will have a range of
specialist pooch-friendly content to enjoy.

DogTV is a new television network created specifically for our

four-legged friends which is set to launch in the UK on Monday.

Created after three years of research, the channel will air

scientifically tested programming aiming to alleviate symptoms
of conditions such as separation anxiety, loneliness and stress,
bosses say. It will also have shows to help owners better
understand and look after their pets.

With the number of people getting dogs rising dramatically

during the lockdowns, it could be a timely arrival - especially as
many owners have now returned to work and animals are being
left alone more.

The channel has been developed following studies into animals'

physiological and psychological needs, moods and responses,
to help them feel more stimulated or relaxed when needed,
producers said in a statement.

Colours, audio frequencies and camera alignment have all been

adapted to cater to dog senses.

Professor Nicholas Dodman, chief scientist for DogTV, said:

"DogTV is an excellent resource for dog owners to help
alleviate some of the behavioural problems that can arise when
dogs are left alone.

"With numbers of dog owners rising over the pandemic, and

owners now returning to work, DogTV helps canines to feel
relaxed and comforted until their owners return home."

The channel, which is already available in other countries, will

also feature programmes for dog owners, including shows by
celebrity dog trainer Laura Nativo, who will provide tips on how
to live better at home with a pet, as well as programmes that
provide simple recipes for dogs.

According to Dog TV, one out of six dogs suffers from overt
separation anxiety.

Symptoms that appear when owners are away can range from
excessive barking and refusing to eat, to trying to escape and
destructive behaviour.

British animal trainer Victoria Stilwell said: "People think that

DogTV is a bit of a weird concept at first, but when I tell them
the amount of research that has gone into this - that this TV
channel can help their dogs while home alone, improve their
lives considerably and help with different stresses and anxieties
- they get it."

The service will be available on a range of smart TVs, Android

and Apple devices and online.

Dogs TV channel: DogTV set to launch to help with stress and behavioural problems | Ents &
Arts News | Sky News

I'm a dog behaviour expert – and these

are five things to try if your dog
refuses to go for a walk in the rain
Angela Laws, head of community at Trusted Housesitters, told FEMAIL that breeds
with thin fur or short coats, like greyhounds and whippets, can become
overwhelmed by torrential downpour.

She explained: 'Dogs can become so overwhelmed by a downpour, with some

reactive dogs even disliking the sound of rain on the windows. However, it’s
important that pets are exercised and stimulated'.
Here, experts offer advice on how to encourage your pups to get moving in the
rain, and what to do if they won't...

1. Start off small

Since we've learned that certain dog breeds can be sensitive to the rain, keeping abreast
of weather forecasts in your local area is key to making sure pups aren't caught
unprepared.

'It's key to find a time that the rain is likely to be lighter', explained Angela. 'Begin by
taking your dog out for short walks in the light rain and gradually increase their time
outside with lots of verbal encouragement and some tasty treats to turn the experience
into a positive one'.

Even starting of small for a few minutes in the garden is enough, if the rain is too heavy to
get outside in.

'Remember, dogs love routine, so try to keep outside toilet times similar to avoid any
accidents'.

2. Raincoats or umbrellas

Before grabbing your trusted brolly or raincoat before leaving the house, why not consider
the same for your pup?

Dressing your dog in protective gear can keep it both comfortable and motivated in the
rain.

Angela said: 'Some dogs may be more willing to go for a walk in the rain if they are
wearing a raincoat or a waterproof harness to keep them dry.

'This can help protect them from getting too wet and make the experience more
comfortable for them'.

But be sure to maintain enough control over the dog lead to avoid any nasty accidents.

3. Dry them off

There's nothing worse than getting soiled with rain water on a miserable and blusterous
day.

Dogs hate sitting around in wet clothes just as much as we do, and they're not partial to
walking around in wet fur either.

Angela says: 'Although dogs may have a raincoat, pat them dry as soon as they’re back
inside to make sure you're minimising any discomfort.
'Pay special attention to their tummy, as muddy puddles can splash up, causing skin
irritation once it dries'.

Dog dressing gowns are a great choice for wrapping your pooch in whilst they dry off.

It also prevents pups from leaving disastrous stains if they decide to have a shake.

4. The right location

Even if your dog shows signs of throwing caution to the wind and wants to head out into
the rain, some areas are less conducive to adventure than others.

Ideal locations are areas with more shelters and less puddles, like places with plenty of
cover from trees.

Angela said: 'If storms are forecast, it’s best to avoid trees in case of any lightning strikes.

'For fearful dogs, thunder can cause them to bolt, so keep them on a secure lead, or
postpone walks until it’s passed.

'If there's one available in your area, an indoor dog park is also a great alternative to a
wet and drizzly walk'.

5. Stay indoors

Some dogs will want to put their paws down and make a stand against the rain, no matter
how much you try.

The good news is that, according to Angela, some breeds can 'skip a walk and be fine, so
long as they’re fed and have a toilet break'.

Dog-walking and pet-sitting expert Sophie Mae, from Furends Southampton, agreed.

Sophie explained: 'Not all dogs will come to love rainy walks, and that's perfectly okay.

'If your dog remains hesitant to venture out in the rain, don't fret. Mental stimulation can
be an excellent alternative.

'Engage their mind with activities like puzzle toys, hide and seek, trick training, and scent
games.

'These can be as beneficial as physical walks. It's all about keeping their mind active and
their skills sharp, rain or shine'.

I'm a dog behaviour expert - and these are five things to try if your dog refuses to go for a walk
in the rain | Daily Mail Online
Every dog fits one of five personality types - this quiz
will determine which yours is
Studio has teamed up with Pet Behaviour and Nutritional Expert Anna Webb to
reveal the five different dog personality types and exactly what they mean for
your pup's behavioural and play needs.
To play along, simply follow the flow chart below.
1. Would you describe your dog as an excessive barker? If the answer is yes, skip
to question 2. If the answer is no, skip to question 3.
2. Would you describe your dog as eager to please? If the answer is yes, skip to
question 4. If the answer is no, skip to question 5.
3. Would you describe your dog as guarded or affectionate? If the answer is yes,
skip to question 6. If the answer is no, skip to question 7.
4. Is your dog welcoming or wary? If the answer is welcoming, skip to workaholic.
If the answer is wary, skip to protector.
5. Would you describe your dog as high energy? If the answer is yes, skip to
workaholic. If the answer is no, skip to bell boy.
6. Would you describe your dog as a diva? If the answer is yes, skip to joker. If
the answer is no, skip to protector.
7. Would you describe your dog as an extrovert or an introvert? If the answer is
extrovert, skip to joker. If the answer is introvert, skip to shrinking violet.

The Workaholic
The Workaholic is a dog that's always on the move, typically with their nose to the
ground, sniffing out their next discover, according to the pros.
They said: "Workaholics love being on the go - they're high energy and enjoy
working hard for their owners through training and play.
"If their workaholic nature isn't satisfied, these dogs may become bored and turn
to barking, jumping, and chewing. Long lasting interactive toys or chews are a
great way to minimise this unwanted behaviour.
"Workaholics are eager to please and thrive on being busy, so daily obedience
practice with positive rewards, such as treats or non-squeaky toys, are a great
way to keep them occupied. Make the most of their drive to 'sniff and find' with
hidden toys in the home or garden.
"With their love of sniffing and searching, Cocker Spaniels, Border Collies, and
German Shepherds display classic Workaholic traits."

The Shrinking Violet

The quiz masters define a shrinking violet as "your classic introvert, prone to
flighty behaviour and spooked by sudden noises." They added: "Tending to be
nervous or unsure, the Shrinking Violet can be found in any breed. They might be
a re-homed dog or one that lacked socialisation as a puppy.
"Often an introvert, the Shrinking Violet might be 'spooked' by sudden noises,
making it vital that they have a safe space to retreat to.
"These dogs need lots of patience and an owner that can build their confidence
with positive reinforcement. They may not think they like to play, so soft plush toys
with squeaks are a great way to get them engaged. Using chews also helps to
keep the Shrinking Violet calm and present."

The Protector
Expect the Protector to be most comfortable patrolling their territory or shadowing
your movements, believing they are keeping you safe, say the pros.
"Protectors naturally want to protect their territory and can be suspicious of other
dogs and humans. Lots of socialising and rewarding your pup with high value
treats for good behaviour with other dogs is the best way to combat this.
"As naturally good problem solvers, they may turn to misplaced chewing unless
re-directed. Avoid squeaky toys, which can over excite and trigger negative
behaviours, and instead focus on proactive play such as fetch or tug.
"Protectors are easily trained, so tapping into their problem-solving brains with
obedience cues is a great way to keep them occupied. They might like to follow
your around the house, so train a settle cue for a designated safe space in each
room.
"The Protectors tend to be larger breeds such as Akitas, Dobermans, and
Rottweilers."

The Bell Boy

According to the gurus, these dogs are like you're own personal alarm, alerting
you to any possible 'threats', like car alarms.
"Bell Boys are very intelligent, making them more conscious of 'threats' to the
home. For example, they'll likely be the first to let you know when a delivery driver
is close by," the pros explained.
"A trained Bell Boy will bark and rush to their owner to check they've heard him or
her, before retreating to his bed and letting you answer the door. So, owners
should focus on create a boundary around the front door by teaching their dog to
settle in bed and rewarding them for doing so.
"Using a variety of toys will help to sustain the Bell Boy's interest throughout the
day, making them less bothered by surrounding stimuli. Basic obedience cues
with tasty rewards will also help to reduce unwanted behaviour.
"Tibetan Terriers, Poodles, Westie’s, and Chihuahuas are Bell Boy breeds that
love to alert their owners."

The Joker
Last but not least, these natural comedians will go above and beyond to get your
attention.
The quiz creators said: "Jokers are independent thinkers and natural comedians.
They know exactly what they want, which can lead to attention seeking
behaviours to get their way. These 'tantrums' mean you might find the Jokers
shredding cushions or chewing on table legs.
"Plush toys are best avoided as they're easily shredded by the Joker. Instead, opt
for some non-squeaky or interactive toys to channel their fun-loving personality.
Training a perfect fetch is great for reducing frustration with a quick high impact
energy burn.
"Practicing basic cues, like sit, down, and stay, every day with the Joker can help
to reduce jumping and barking for attention.
"Frenchies, Bostons, Bull Terriers, and British Bulldogs are great examples of the
Joker personality."
Every dog fits one of five personality types - this quiz will determine which yours is - Mirror
Online

CAT:

Why do cats knead? Where the

behaviour comes from and when
kneading can be unhealthy for
your pet
If you have a cat, you will have watched it “kneading” blankets,
pillows, and the odd unwilling lap at some point.

This repeated massaging action is an evolutionary behaviour that is

named for its resemblance to kneading dough.

And while some cats don’t knead that regularly, others flex their paws
so often they end up doing themselves damage in a bewildering act of
confusing compulsion.

Why does my cat knead me?

In most cases, a cat kneads when it feels comfortable.

As Julia Henning and Susan Hazel from University of Adelaide explain in

an article for The Conversation: “Cats first begin to knead when just
tiny kittens, still nursing from their mother.

“Kneading is associated with suckling, which helps stimulate a mother

cat’s milk supply through the release of oxytocin, and likely evolved for
this reason.”

“[It] also has another evolutionary advantage. It can be used as a form

of tactile and pheromone communication between kitten and mother.”

Why do cats continue to knead into

adulthood?
Indeed, pheromones are not only important for bonding between the
mother and young. Cat-appeasing pheromones also have the potential
to treat aggression in mature cats.

While cats learn to knead as kittens, it is a habit that many carry into
adulthood as a result of a behaviour known as ‘neoteny’.
Henning and Hazel say “Neoteny is when an animal retains their
juvenile physical or behaviour traits into adulthood.

“It’s likely these traits are advantageous for cats when needing to
socialise with humans and other cats or animals in the household.”

When does it become unhealthy?

Some cats can start to knead compulsively, resulting in damaged
paws, legs or mouth.

Henning and Hazel say that at this point you might need to visit a vet,
as it “may be a sign your cat is stressed or in pain”.

Compulsive kneading has been found to be a more common problem

for Siamese and Burmese cats in particular.

That being said, some cats don’t knead at all. Just like people, cats are
individuals and like to show that they are comfortable or affiliated with
their owners in their own ways.

How do I get my cat to stop

kneading me?
Henning and Hazel explain that kneading is normal and potentially
important for cat-owner bonding.

However, if the kneading starts to hurt your lap, they suggest you
“invest in a thick blanket that you can cover your legs with.

“Avoid telling them off or kicking them off your lap.

“Instead, reward kneading where the claws are kept to a minimum by

showing more attention via patting or handing out a food treat when
your cat is kneading the way you would like them to.”
Why do cats knead? Where the behaviour comes from and when kneading can be unhealthy for your pet
(msn.com)
 Is your cat secretly mad at you? Watch for
this feline behaviour to find out

Your cat might hold a grudge against you without you knowing it. Watch
for these subtle changes in feline behaviour to see if you need to give
them an extra treat to buy their forgiveness.

Your cat can sometimes express its anger by taking a swipe of a claw or
a big hiss. But more often than that, enigmatic creatures don’t give
away much of their feelings. You need to read their body
language to learn why they hide all day long or give you a death stare.
Watch out for these subtle signs to find out if your cat is secretly mad at
you.

Whipping Tail

Cat tail is the first body part to watch if you want to know their true
intentions. Just like dogs, felines just can’t help it, and these majestic
devices are big giveaways. If the top of your fluffy friend's tail
starts to lash left and right intensively, you might be in trouble.
Don’t try to reason with your pet just then, they might use their sharp
claws for an answer.

Your cat is in hiding

Cats are great at finding hiding spots you didn’t know existed,
sending you panic-check every place in the house and stand outside for a
good hour calling their name. Pet felines often do that to sulk when
they are mad at their owners. And they might not mean it this way,
but it does look like a little revenge.

Aeroplane Ears

If your cat’s ears are pinned back or to the side and flat, looking
like mini-aeroplane wings, it may be a sign your furry diva is
annoyed with you, Meowingtons write. This ‘ear defence’ also helps
buffer any upsetting sound that comes from the source of irritation, or
you, in this case.
A kitty death stare

Have you ever tried playing stare competition with your cat? If so, you
might know that they always win. Felines are the kings and queens of
stares.

In the animal world, prolonged eye contact is seen as an act of

aggression and dominance. So if your cat is giving you ‘that stare’,
along with lashing tail and aeroplane ears, you better take cover.

Cold shoulder

If your cat is mad with you, they might start avoiding you and
quickly leave the spaces once you enter them. This may look like
what these independent loners are supposed to do, but it’s a wrong
perception of pet felines. Happy cats are actually very social
creatures who enjoy following their humans from room to room and
sleeping close to them. So, if your kitty doesn’t enjoy your
company, it might be sulking.

Why is my cat angry at me, and what to do about it?

According to Spraying Cats, your cat can be mad at you for many
reasons. Maybe you stoppedgiving them enough attention, started
using some kitty-unfriendly perfume, or told them off for table-
surfing? In whatever scenario, you need to make amends.

Don’t chase your cat to pour all your love on them at once. Give
them space and let them be open for your attention. Be approachable,
offer playtime, and a treat, of course. Cats surely know how to hold a
grudge, but they love their humans too.

Is your cat secretly mad at you? Watch for this feline behaviour to find out (ohmymag.co.uk)

How to Decode Your Cat's Behavior

Cat Sitting Positions and Behavior Meanings

Just because you and your cat speak different languages doesn't mean you can't
successfully communicate with each other! Humans and their pet cats can share a
special and complex bond, and your pet cat is able to communicate his or her needs to
you using certain physical cues. The look in your cat's eyes, their body language, and
their vocalizations all contain vital information—as long as you know what they mean.

Understanding Cat Body Language

Cats are versatile creatures, and they have a lot of different movements! Nevertheless,
there are some actions that house cats are liable to do when they're around you.
Although it may not seem like it, they are using their body to tell you something! Here
are some of the most common phrases in the feline language.

Rolling on the Floor

If your kitty is rolling back and forth on the floor, she is either submitting to you or
inviting you to play. If it's the latter, you shouldn't miss it for anything in the world!
However, your cat won't want to play for too long before getting upset and turning your
fingers into snack food.

Squinty Eyes

Cats squint when they are happy. If they close their eyes slowly while looking, that
shows that they trust you. Do not break their trust.

Sticking a Raised Back in Your Face

Your cat finds tail-sniffing normal, so even if it's not your cup of tea, it's your cat’s
version of a warm "hello."

Sleeping While Curled Up

Cats curl themselves up into little balls when they sleep so that they produce and
maintain enough body heat to feel warm while they're sleeping.
Kneading

Cats would make great bakers since they seem to love alternately pressing their paws
against a soft object—usually you! Behaviorists believe this is a leftover trait from when
they were kittens, as the kneading would help their mothers produce milk.

Why Do Cats Loaf or Tuck Their Paws Under Them?

Your cat might often tuck their paws under their stomach, making them look like a
cuddly and cute loaf of bread. But besides looking cute, what does it mean? Cats do
this when they are feeling safe and comfortable—if they're sitting like this, they probably
think that they don't need to use their claws anytime soon! They also sit in such a way to
conserve body heat. If you see your cat sitting like a loaf, it is definitely a good sign!

Other Cat Sitting Positions and Behaviors

Behavior Explanation How to Respond

Laying It may look Let your cat clean themselves! Hygiene is important.
Down as though
With One your cat is
Paw Out doing yoga
or
stretching
herself out a
bit, but in
fact, this
position
makes it
easier for
cats to clean
themselves
up.

Exposing This is You can rub your cats belly, but don't be surprised if they
Their pretty pounce on you after a while.
Belly similar to
dogs and is
one of the
most
important
and
 Behavior Explanation How to Respond

definitive
signs of
trust.

Staring Do not Leave your cat alone. They're focused.

Into Space think your
cat just
went mad.
Cats have
great vision
and are
aware of
things that
we aren't. It
may be
staring at a
fly you can
not see.
Either way,
they did not
just go mad.

Hugging It's just a Engage your cat and let them play! It doesn't hurt that much.
and Biting game. Your
You cat loves
play
wrestling,
even when
it plugs its
sharp teeth
into your
easily
punctured
flesh.

Chattering This is a It's not the best time to snuggle your cat right now—they
at Animals hunting might confuse you for a bird!
reflex that
cats have
maintained
throughout
evolution.
 Behavior Explanation How to Respond

It's a sign of
excitement
at the
chance of
being able
to hunt, but
it can be a
sign of
frustration
at not being
able to
catch their
pray. Cats
especially
do this at
birds.

Snuggling Cats want Let your cat hang around—they just want to get warm, after
Up to warm all! If they're distracting you, gently pick them up and place
Your places, and them in a warm spot nearby.
Computer your
computer
emits a lot
of heat and
energy.
Even more,
however,
cats love to
get on your
nerves and
annoy you.
See, cats
own you—
not the
other way
round.

Quivering This If your cat is neutered, you don't have to worry about spaying.
Their Butt happens Let your cat say hello!
when cats
are
stretching
 Behavior Explanation How to Respond

and also as
a form of
"greeting";
however, it
can
occasionally
be a sign
that your cat
is trying to
portray
dominance
and spay
their scent
on their
territory.

Cat Tail Language

In addition to looking at your cat's ears, mouth, nose, and body movement for indicators
of how your cat is doing, you can tell a lot about how they are feeling by the movement
of their tail. If it's held high, it means it's happy, and if it's low, it means that it's ready to
pounce, so it's important to know what its tail means—it might be a sign that you should
move out of the way!

Tail
Meaning How to Respond
Movement

High Tail When a cat Play with your cat!

holds her tail They're in a good mood
high as she and it's time to take
moves around advantage.
her territory,
she
communicates
 Tail
Meaning How to Respond
Movement

confidence
and
contentment.
She is
expressing
happiness and
is willing to be
friendly with
other people in
her space. A
little twitch at
the tip of the
tail can mean
that the cat is
particularly
happy.

Curved Maybe you Offer your hand out and

Like a should invite your kitty to play.
Question rearrange your
Mark schedule for
the day so that
you can stay in
and play with
your cat. This
position
indicates that
 Tail
Meaning How to Respond
Movement

the cat is
playful and
ready to have
fun with you.

Low Tail A tail held low Figure out what's

can signal bothering your cat and try
aggression to solve the problem. It's
and should be not the best idea to play
taken very with your cat at this time.
seriously—
your cat might
be ready to
pounce! That
is, unless your
cat is Persian,
as they keep
their tail in a
low position all
the time.

Tucked A tail that is Wait for your cat to come

Away curved to you; they might be
beneath the feeling overwhelmed.
body signals
submission or
fear.
Something is
 Tail
Meaning How to Respond
Movement

not right and is

making the cat
nervous.

Puffed Up If your cat is Don't try to play with your

puffed up, he cat. Leave them alone
or she is likely and try to figure out what
really agitated it is that's bothering them.
and frightened.
Your cat is
trying to look
bigger in order
to ward off
danger.

Whipping A cat who Walk away ... it's not a

Around slaps her tail good idea to play or
rapidly back cuddle with your cat right
and forth is now.
communicating
fear and
aggression.

Swishing When your Let your cat eat, play with

Tail cat's tail sways the toy, or do whatever it
slowly from is they're so focused on.
one side to the No use trying to break
other, she is their attention.
 Tail
Meaning How to Respond
Movement

focused on
something.
You might see
it when she is
about to be
fed.

Why Do Cats Sleep on Your Feet?

If they can, cats will often try to sleep next to their owners. This isn't because they want
to maul you in their sleep—far from it. It is actually a sign of trust and protection! Your
cat wants to relax and be near you, but not necessarily on you. Staying by your feet
means that they can easily leave if they get bored or sick of you.

And if your cat likes to only sleep next to your feet, and not next to the feet of anyone
else in your family? Well, lucky you. You're your cat's favorite.

Why Does My Cat Hide From Me?

Cats are pretty good at hiding. And though it's easy to say that they just love playing
hide and seek, there are a variety of reasons your cat might be trying to stay out of
sight.

Though cats are predators, they are usually non-confrontational—when they see
something threatening, they are more likely to run and hide rather than stay back and
fight; hence the term "scared cat." Check to see if there's something around that might
be scaring your cat—this could be another animal, a child, or even you!

In addition, if you've changed something about your home—maybe someone new

moved it, or you've got a brand new furniture set—this can cause your cat stress and
cause them to hide. Cats like to stick to a routine, so it's important to be especially in
tune with your cat's needs when something about their environment has changed.

Why Does My Cat Hide in a Box?

A box, a drawer, a suitcase lying around—cats are known to want to sit in the most
random locations. Boxes and otherwise enclosed spaces are comforting to cats; it helps
them relax and also protects them from predators. If your cat is stressed, they might
also try to find a bag or box to sit in to help ease their anxiety.

How to Decode Your Cat's Behavior - PetHelpful

https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/other/is-my-cat-bored-here-s-what-animal-boredom-actually-looks-
like/ar-AA1hutW5?ocid=windirect&cvid=7417b867a69e47a99fc2688fa2a34cea&ei=50

The Strange Sleeping Behaviors of Cats - video Dailymotion

Why do cats even need whiskers? You’ll be surprised by the answer (ohmymag.co.uk)

Cats like putting their butt in your face. Why do they do it? (ohmymag.co.uk)

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