As any seasoned cat whisperer will tell you, a happy cat might not be obvious at first. Cats are subtle, mysterious, and dramatic (in the best way). But once you know what to look for, you’ll see that your cat gives plenty of signs when they’re feeling good! 🐾
Here’s a breakdown of how to tell if your cat is living their best nine lives:
😸 How to Know If Your Cat Feels Good
1. Purring (but context matters!)
When your cat is curled up, relaxed, and purring—yes, that’s a classic sign they’re content. But remember: cats can also purr when nervous or in pain. So if it’s paired with calm behavior, slow blinking, and a comfy loaf position, it’s happy purring. 💗
2. Tail Language
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A cat with a tail straight up (especially with a little hook at the top) is in a great mood.
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A tail softly swishing while lounging? Chill cat vibes.
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A puffed-up or twitchy tail? Not good. That cat is stressed or overstimulated.
3. Kneading
Also known as “making biscuits.” When a cat kneads you (pushing their paws in and out), it’s a throwback to kittenhood and a sign they feel secure, safe, and loved. Bonus points if they drool while doing it—that cat is living the dream.
4. Slow Blinks = I Love You
When a cat looks at you and slowly blinks, that’s basically the cat equivalent of blowing kisses. If you blink slowly back, they might do it again. It’s a trust thing. You just got soft-approved by your feline boss.
5. Eating Normally & Using the Litter Box
A healthy appetite and regular bathroom habits = a cat who feels good physically and emotionally. Changes here could mean something’s up, so always monitor your cat’s food, water, and litter box behavior.
6. Grooming Themselves (and maybe you!)
A happy, healthy cat grooms often—it’s a form of self-care. If your cat licks you or another cat, that’s affection. Grooming = comfort. A cat that stops grooming might be sick or stressed.
7. Playfulness
Even adult cats love to play! If your cat chases toys, pounces on invisible enemies, or zooms around the house at 2am, that’s a sign of good energy and a healthy mood. Zoomies = yes.
8. Sleeping in Weird Positions
If your cat sleeps belly-up, all twisted like a croissant, or with their paws over their face—it means they feel super safe and content. Vulnerable sleep positions = maximum trust.
9. Head Bumps & Cheek Rubs
That little cat nudge to your head or leg? That’s a sign of bonding. Your cat is marking you with scent glands on their face—basically saying “You’re mine, and I like it.”
10. Following You Around (Like a Furry Shadow)
If your cat chooses to be in the same room as you (even if they’re just staring at you from a shelf), they’re into you. A happy cat feels safe around their person and wants to be near you—even if they pretend not to care.
Bonus Signs:
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Twitching ears while relaxing (they’re alert but comfy)
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A soft, steady breathing rate while snoozing
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Chirping or trilling when they see you = excitement!
Basically, a happy cat is confident, relaxed, clean, and weird in the best way 😺
