Through body language and demeanor your cat is a skilled communicator. Here's how to read the non-verbal messages your cat is communicating:
On Patrol Of Her Territory
- Perked ears indicate curiosity
- Tail provides balance
- Whiskers measure width
- Sebaceous glands secrete an oily substance with a distinct smell
- Paws planted firmly and confidently on the ground
- Paw pads act as shock absorbers
Ready To Take Action
- Tail acts as a counterbalance as center of gravity shifts forward
- Smooth body fur indicates confidence
- Forward ears show assertiveness
- Dilated pupils indicate excitement
- Concentrated expression
- Hind legs bent, ready for action
Relaxed and Content
- Each whisker is used for sensory perception
- Direct eye contact demonstrates trust
- Tail in relaxed position
- Slanted eyes indicate contentment
- Nose pad receptors
- Ears always attentive
Source: http://www.purina.com/cats/behavior/CatBodyLanguage.aspx
