Global Cat Day is coming up on October 16th, so what better time then now to learn to speak cat! We all know that communicating with cats can be tricky, but learning to speak their language will give you an insight into their meows, all their purring and what their body language is saying.
Here are some simple ways of communicating with your cat in their language. Your kitty will thank you!
Don’t Stare
Cats stare for lots of reasons. They stare off into space, at things they want to catch. Even when the food bowl is not full enough, your cat will stare you down. But these focused gazes come with curious, but normal-sized pupils. If those pupils swell and the stare becomes intense, your cat is likely not happy.
In the wild world, staring at another animal with unblinking eyes signals threatening intent. So, cats can take our intense stares the wrong way, thinking we’re telling them we have an issue.
Chat with Your Cat
Did you know a cat’s vocal range sits almost two octaves higher than human pitch? Cats also hear in higher octaves than us too. Cats are hunters with ears tuned to hear prey like birds and small mammals, which make high chirps and squeaks.
It turns out, cats are far more responsive when their names are spoken in high-pitched voices and ended with a long ‘ee’ sound. So, go ahead with the baby talk! Communicating with your cat by giving them your best high pitch will likely produce better conversation between you and your cat.
Cat Tummies are Off-Limits
It’s rare that a cat that enjoys a belly rub. Their sensitive organs are located near their soft underbelliesand. So, just because a cat goes tummy up in your presence doesn’t mean she’s asking for some scratching. Kitties roll over and show their furry tummy when they feel secure with you.
The Power of the Purr
Cat lovers know that everyone who hears a cat’s purr benefits. Cats purr not only for their health and ours but because they’re a happy critter! Purring develops as a bonding mechanism between kitten and mother, and the extreme sense of comfort that arises in these earliest moments of cat’s life continues throughout life. And while purring is a common way for a cat to communicate pleasure, kitties also turn on the rumbles when sick or injured. Beyond serving as a way to calm themselves, the power of a cat’s purr can help to heal and quiet pain.
Let Them Knead
When your cat starts sinking his claws deep, it means he’s secure and happy as can be. Though the claw contact might be uncomfortable, allowing the rhythmic paw action communicates your acceptance of a kitty’s affection.
