You can get a pretty good idea of how your cat is feeling by watching its posture, sounds, and behaviour. When cats are happy and relaxed, they usually have a loose, comfy posture and might slow-blink their eyes at you. On the flip side, a puffed-up body and ears pinned back usually mean they’re scared or angry. If your cat’s mood or routine changes for a while—like hiding more or eating less—it could be a sign they’re not feeling well.

Signs of a Happy Cat

A happy cat shows its content through relaxed and loving behaviour.

• Body: A happy cat often lounges in a relaxed, loaf-like pose with smooth fur. Rolling onto their back usually means they trust you, though it’s not always an invitation for belly rubs.
• Eyes: Their eyes look soft and almond-shaped, often half-closed. Slow blinking is their way of showing affection and trust.
• Ears: Ears stand up straight and face forward, showing they’re calm and paying attention.
• Tail: An upright tail with a little curl at the tip means they’re happy and confident. A quivering tail can show excitement.
• Vocalisations: Happy cats often purr, though purring can also happen if they’re anxious or in pain. They might greet you with high-pitched meows, chirps, or trills.
• Affectionate Behaviour: Look for things like kneading their paws (“making biscuits”), rubbing their cheeks or head against you, or even drooling while purring—these are all signs they’re feeling good.

Signs of an Angry or Unhappy Cat

When upset, cats often try to look bigger and more intimidating.

• Body: An angry or scared cat might arch its back with fur standing on end (the classic “Halloween cat” look) or crouch low to the ground.
• Eyes: Pupils may be wide and dilated, with a fixed stare at whatever’s bothering them.
• Ears: Ears flatten against the head and turn to the side, sometimes called “aeroplane ears.”
• Tail: The tail might be low and tucked between the legs or thrashing and twitching quickly.
• Vocalisations: Hissing, growling, spitting, or loud yowling are clear signs they’re upset or angry.
• Defensive Behaviour: They might swat, swipe, or bite if they feel threatened.

Signs of an Anxious or Stressed Cat

Stressed cats might show subtle signs or hide away.

• Body: A tense, low-to-the-ground stance or hiding spots can mean anxiety.
• Behavioural Changes: Stress might cause too much grooming, not enough grooming, or stop grooming altogether.
• Vocalisation Changes: A usually quiet cat that suddenly meows a lot might be stressed.
• Toileting Changes: Going outside the litter box is a big red flag for stress or illness.

How to Tell if Your Cat is Sick

Cats are great at hiding pain or illness, so it’s important to watch for lasting changes in how they act or look.

• Appearance: A hunched posture, messy fur, or a visible third eyelid can mean they’re in pain or sick.
• Energy and Activity: Less activity or seeming really tired might be a sign of health issues.
• Eating and Drinking: Eating less or suddenly drinking a lot more water can be worrying.
• Vocalisations: Sometimes purring, meowing, or yowling can mean pain instead of happiness.
• Changes in Behaviour: More irritability, aggression, or sudden changes in how they interact with you might mean something’s wrong.

Important Considerations

• Context is Key: Always think about the situation. For example, a cat that’s purring but tense and hiding might actually be stressed, not happy.
• Seek Veterinary Advice: If you notice big or ongoing changes in your cat’s behaviour, mood, or routine, it’s a good idea to check with your vet to rule out any health problems.

Cat aggression can arise from a variety of factors, including territorial disputes, fear, playfulness, redirected aggression, or underlying medical issues. Understanding the cause of the aggression is essential for addressing the behaviour effectively. If a cat suddenly becomes aggressive, it is advisable to schedule a veterinary check-up to rule out any medical reasons..