Cat Body Language Checklist
Tail
Held high - a welcome to a friend or a sign of contentment.
Held horizontal - neither excited nor sad.
Held low - a sign of illness or unhappiness.
Slow waving - feeling threatened or angry.
Swishing from side to side - ready for a fight.
Paws
Rubbing together, on you, or in the air - a sign of happiness, contentment or nervousness.
Shaking - a sign of disgust or displeasure.
Head
Rubbing against you - marking you with their scent and claiming you as their pet.
Gently butting - on meeting a friend or a sign of affection.
Eyes
Wide with dilated pupils - a sign of fear or excitement.
Narrow - a sign of anger.
Making prolonged contact with you - a sign of love and trust.
Half closed and slanted - a sign of relaxation.
Ears
Pinned back - a sign of irritation or anger.
Up straight - a sign of interest or curiosity.
Turned forwards - focused and attentive.
Feel free to add to the list using the comment box below!