They say actions speak louder than words but this may not always be the case – especially when it comes to our feline friends. As we all know, communication is a vital part of human life. For pet owners however, communication may not be that easy when it comes to their pet.
Mieshelle Nagelschneider, a feline behavior consultant, shares the most common non-verbal feline messages that have helped her clients improve their relationship with their pet, together with some suggestions on how to effectively respond to them.
Stop
Most cat owners do not realize that their pet can be over-stimulated through petting. Of course, all cats appreciate a good rub now and then but too much will force them to respond aggressively. Nagelschneider says, “Most of my clients don’t realize that over-stimulating the cat through petting almost always results in a bite.” There are various signals when a cat is being over-stimulated – its tail begins to twitch or its ears turn back. Nagelschneider says, ““The trick is to recognize the signal and stop immediately.”
Leave Me Alone
How do you know when to leave your feline friend be? According to Nagelschneider, when cats want to be left alone they sit or lie with the tail curled around the body, their paws tucked beneath. “This is an indication to you and to other cats that everything is peaceful and harmonious, and that you are unwelcome visitors. This is not an invitation to come closer,” she adds.
I'm Scared
Cats are very sensitive creatures; when they crouch and tuck their tail, it is an indication that something is causing them distress. In cases like this, the only option is to remove the object that's causing your cat's reaction – or at least keep it at a distance. Allow your cat to retreat; it will come to you when it's ready.
Whoa!
Sometimes we get surprised when people sneak up on us or when we are caught off guard. With cats, it's no different. When cats are startled, they will react aggressively – they will roll onto their backs, claws out. Cats are natural predators and should not be punished for their aggression. Nagelschneider suggests talking to your cat before approaching to alert them of your presence. This will avoid any untoward “surprises”.
which is probably why a cat is best left alone.
i didn't know extreme petting can over-stimulate cats. guess they're like humans, too much of something can turn them off too.
I guess those are true. After all, it's mostly through their actions that our pets can communicate to us how they feel.
action speaks louder than a meow, cat lovers need to familiarize themselves with these body languages of cats..