Cats are subtle, but they are always communicating. Reading them well helps you approach street cats safely, help shy rescues trust you, and avoid scratches.
The tail
- Upright with a little hook at the tip: friendly, confident, happy to see you.
- Puffed up: frightened — give space.
- Low or tucked: anxious or unsure.
- Lashing or thumping: irritated — stop petting now.
Ears and eyes
- Ears forward: curious and relaxed.
- Ears flattened sideways or back ("airplane ears"): scared or angry.
- Slow blinks: trust. Blink slowly back — it's a "cat kiss".
- Wide, round pupils in normal light: fear or high excitement.
Posture
A relaxed cat lies stretched out or loaf-shaped. A frightened cat crouches low, makes itself small, or arches its back sideways with fur on end. Hissing and spitting are warnings, not aggression — the cat is asking you to back off.
Meeting a shy catSit on the floor, look away, let the cat approach and sniff your finger. Pet the cheeks and head first; many cats dislike belly touches.