As a concerned cat parent, you may have asked yourself whether your cat is happy. And while each cat is an individual, he or she may show happiness in different ways.
Just like us, our feline friends express how they feel through body language as well as vocalisations, and use many different parts of their body to show us how they're feeling.
Here are signs of a happy cat:
Vocal clues
Cats can be very vocal, especially when they’re happy. Vocal kitties may have long conversations with you, and the pitch of their meow will allude to how they are feeling.
A high-pitched meow is a content cat, while a low-pitched meow may indicate an unhappy or annoyed kitty. That ""prrrrupttt!"" sound many cats make, is also a good indication of a happy cat.
While purring is not always a sure-fire sign of a cheerful cat, for the most part, it can be an indication of feline contentment or even bliss.
A healthy appearance
If cats feel good, they will keep themselves well groomed. A cheerful kitty will also groom other cats or even lick their owner – this also shows trust and a positive relationship.
A relaxed posture
If your kitty is sleeping with their paws tucked under, they are feeling relaxed and at-home. An agitated cat will straighten its legs and erect the hair along the spine, while a cat in a good mood will shrink to appear small and unthreatening.
A joyful cat’s tail will stand straight up, with just the tip crooked to greet people and other pets that the cat considers friends.
Eyes and Ears
Your cat’s eyes are very expressive. Sudden dilation of the eyes indicates they are extremely happy.
A cat is also in a happy-place when his or her ears are facing forward, but tilted back just slightly.
Social sleeping
While cats may sleep more when depressed, their sleep locations can be an indication of happiness. If your kitty sleeps with other cats or chooses you as a bed-buddy – this indicates happy relationships.
Playful behaviour
Play is a great indication of happiness, and your kitty will play with other pets and humans that they like or trust.
From exuberant sprints and kitty wrestling matches to calm paw patting of the features, these playful activities indicate a happy cat.
A good appetite
A healthy appetite is a terrific sign of a happy cat. Your kitty may ask you for food by rubbing around your legs and meowing, leading you to their bowl.
Cats are smart and will soon have their owners fully trained to provide them with treats when required, but this behaviour is a sign of trust and shows that your feline friend is happy.
Having a happy cat curled up on your lap purring gently is something all cat parents hope for. By looking out for certain behaviour traits in your feline resident, you will be able to ensure that your kitty is happy and content.