Cat Behavior Explained with Animation

Ever wonder what your cat is thinking? Don’t we all! >^..^<

You may think your cat is simply being affectionate or asking for food when rubbing up against you, but there’s more to it. And what about the hunting trophies she brings you, or the kneading of your body parts?

What’s really going on behind those mysterious and gorgeous eyes?

Our friends from Sainsbury’s Bank shared with us their new animated guide to understanding your cat. It’s a fun infographic full of the weird and wonderful things you might spot your feline friend doing, along with what these behaviors mean.

CAT BEHAVIOURS EXPLAINED

Just what is your cat trying to tell you?

Rubbing against your legs or furniture

This is my home, and I scent things to find my way around.

Showing you its behind

Don’t be offended, I’m just being friendly. We cats say hello to each other by sniffing tails, just like dogs.

Ears forward

I’m pleased to see you. If you hold out your hand, I might give it a bump to say hello (or a sniff if I’m shy).

Slow closing of eyes/blinking

You’re getting a kiss. If you copy me, I might just do it again. If I’m in the mood.

Ears upright, sitting
up and alert

I’m listening intently. Was it a bird or a mouse? I’m not sure, but I’m off to find out.

Kneading

I’m getting comfy. Kneading you makes me feel good, as I think about how I used to knead my mum.

Rolling on back to expose stomach

I trust you, but watch your fingers if you decide to give me a tickle; I might be in the mood to play.

Back hunched up with tail and fur on end

I’m being defensive. I’m puffing my hair out to make myself look bigger, so whatever I’m scared of leaves me alone.

Cat in a box/bag

This might look silly to you, but it makes me feel safe; I can see you, but you can’t see me!

Cat in a box/bag

This might look silly to you, but it makes me feel safe; I can see you, but you can’t see me!

Cat ‘gift’

I’ve brought you a mouse to try and teach you how to hunt. See what a good hunter I am.

It’s your turn now.

Purring

I purr because of most things (dinner, strokes, sitting in sunshine), but mainly because you’ve given me some form of ‘contact’ and I like it.

Thanks to the cat loving crew at Sainsbury’s for creating this cool and entertaining infographic on understanding your cat

“I had been told that the training procedure with cats was difficult. It’s not. Mine had me trained in two days.” ~ Bill Dana

Does your cat exhibit unusual or inexplicable behavior? Tell us about it with a comment in the Leave a Reply section below.