4 Signs of a Happy Cat
Many cat parents know the signs of a healthy kitty: a good appetite, bright eyes and excellent coat condition, among others. But your cat’s happiness is just as important as physical signs of good health. So how can you tell whether your healthy cat is also a happy one? Let's explore a few signs of a truly happy cat.
Purring
In many cases, soft, gentle purrs signal your cat's satisfaction with the world, providing an audible sign of her contentment. But purring doesn't always indicate happiness; some cats also purr when they’re hungry or stressed. The key is to consider purring in context with other clues, like your cat's body language and demeanor. As you get to know one another, you'll learn to differentiate between your cat's happy or hungry purrs, even if no one else can.
Kneading
When a cat presses her paws against a soft surface like she's kneading bread dough, it's called — you guessed it! — kneading (or “making biscuits”). It’s an endearing habit that many believe is related to feline happiness and contentment. But kneading is also an instinctive skill. Kittens knead while nursing to increase the flow of their mother’s milk. The happy feelings cats associate with nursing — safety and nourishment, for example — are believed to be connected with kneading during adulthood.
Expression
Bright eyes and alert ears give your cat an adorable expression, but these characteristics are also two hallmarks of a happy cat. Hand-in-hand with this happy expression is a "happy" tail — one that points straight up in the air.
Curiosity
Happy cats are interested in their surroundings, inquisitive during daily activities and inherently curious about everything. You can nurture your cat's curious nature (and subsequently, their happiness!) by providing them with toys and opportunities for play, along with plenty of attention.
