Decoding your cat: the real meaning behind purring, padding and peeing

As the first cat was domesticated over 4,000 years ago, you would think we already understood them. But no. We still expect them to fit into our modern lives without any compatibility issues, despite the fact that cats are basically solitary hunters so naturally they behave differently - it's in their DNA. To sharpen your animal instincts, Anneleen Bru, animal behavior specialist and author, decodes cat behavior for beginners.

"Most people know that flattened ears signal an unhappy cat, but I missed 90% of the conversation by not using other visible body cues, with its whiskers, tail, fur, eyes, purr, paws and grooming habits. .. Once you know what it is, it can be a lot easier to have a good relationship with your feline,” she says.

What They Do: Rub Around Your Legs What it means: 'I feel good' feel safe, I'm happy.'"

Cats use pheromones in a very clever way - think of it as leaving scented Post-its around their main living space. Rubbing against certain pieces of furniture reinforces the message that this is their happy place.

What they do: Flash their buttsWhat it means: "I like you"When a cat shows his butt for another cat, they are really welcoming.

"It's their way of saying to another cat, 'Hello, I like you' “, explains Bru. "So when they do this to us, their humans, it means the same thing."

What they do: purr What it usually means: " I'm happy and relaxed 'What it sometimes means: 'I'm stressed and in pain' "Most of the time purring is pure contentment, but sometimes it can be a sign of stress, anxiety or illness. Cats do not show pain, but rather show subtle changes in their behavior. In these cases, purring offers relief to an anxious or stressed cat, in fact, they are trying to calm themselves. See a veterinarian as this could indicate a health problem. Also, if he does not purr normally but starts, consult your veterinarian. Any sudden changes in behavior could be a sign that your cat needs veterinary treatment.

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