21/03/2024
How do you know if your cat is happy?
Whilst it may be more obvious that a yowl or hiss means your cat is upset, how can you tell if your cat is happy?
The signs of a happy cat can be more subtle.
What sounds do happy cats make?
Cats will vocalise happiness in a variety of ways: purring, chirping, and meowing.
Purring
A cat’s purr can be very relaxing.
Some cats purr more loudly or more often than others. Purring can usually be taken as a sign they are feeling happy and content.
• Occasionally purring could be a sign of a poorly or ill cat. If you’re not sure why your cat is purring, pay attention to their body language. If they’re crouched close to the ground, acting listless, or eating and drinking less than usual, it’s advisable to seek veterinary advice.
Chirping
Happy cats often make little chirping or trilling sounds as a greeting when they see you or chirping replies when you speak to them.
Your cat may chirp when watching birds out the window or when playing with their favourite toys.
Meowing
One of the most common ways for your cat to communicate with you is by meowing.
Cats use over 60 different meows to communicate.
Short, high-pitched meows may mean your cat wants to show you something, play, is hungry, or would like a cuddle. A more prolonged meow generally means something is wrong.
• Communication differs from cat to cat. Some breeds can be very vocal and will meow about everything, whilst other breeds may only meow when something’s not right with them or for them.
Over time, you’ll get to know your cat and learn to interpret their meows and because cats are clever they will learn how to change their meow based on how you react to them 🐈⬛
Body language of a content cat
Cats don’t just communicate vocally, their body language can tell us a lot about how they are feeling.
The slow blink
One of the best (and most adorable) signs of affection from your cat is the ‘cat kiss’ (slow blink).
This is where your cat makes eye contact with you then slowly blinks their eyes closed.
When this happens, slowly blink back, then look away.
You know your cat is happy when they’re giving slow blinks/cat kisses
Relaxed posture
When a cat is relaxed around you, this is a sure sign they are content.
Slowly stretching or laying on their back to reveal their vulnerable tummy area are indications your cat is relaxed and happy around you.
An anxious kitty will look visibly tense and crouch in a corner or try to hide.
Tail up
Tails aren’t just useful for balance, they’re also an important part of a cat’s communication.
A happy cat will have their tail straight up with a slight curve at the tip, their tail may also sway side to side when they’re feeling particularly content.
Arched back
Your cat may arch their back for a few different reasons which can be both positive and negative.
An arched back with raised fur along the spine and a fluffed up tail indicates your cat is angry or stressed.
However, if you reach your hand out to pet your cat and they arch their back to meet you halfway, this means they’re happy and want to interact with you.
Making biscuits
‘Making biscuits’ is a phrase often used for when your cat kneads their paws on their bed, blanket, or you.
Keep your cat’s claws trimmed so that this show of affection is enjoyable for you both.
How can I make sure my cat is happy?
• Regular visits to the vet. We know, no cat likes going to the vet but to keep your cat happy and healthy, they need regular check ups.
• Neuter or spay your cat, this has many health benefits and will lead to a more content cat.
• Microchip your cat, getting lost wouldn’t just be upsetting for your cat, it would be devastating for you. There is a much higher chance of being reunited with your cat if they are microchipped.
• If possible, provide a safe outdoor space. If you can, create a safe outdoor space for your cat. Time outside is great for your cat’s mental and physical health.
• Play time will help keep your cat happy and healthy, it’s important to play with them every day. Invest in safe cat toys and switch them out every few months to keep your cat engaged.
• A clean litter box is very important. Accidents outside of the litter box are one of the first signs your cat is unhappy. To avoid this, make sure there are enough litter boxes around your home (one per cat, plus one more) and they are cleaned daily.
• A cat-friendly home, there are many ways to make your home cat friendly. Putting up shelves, scratching posts or trees and making sure your cat has a window view are just a few things you can do to make your cat happy.
• Get them a friend, some cats may benefit from having a buddy to keep them company. If this sounds like your cat, consider bringing another cat into your home. Take care when introducing a new cat to your cat as some cats may struggle to adjust to a new housemate.
• Hire a cat sitter. if possible, avoid putting your cat in a cattery. Your cat will already be stressed by your absence, traveling to the cattery along with the smells and sounds of a strange environment and other cats will only upset them further. Hiring a cat sitter to provide personalised pet care in the comfort of your home means your cat will remain much more relaxed and happy.

