WHAT IS YOUR CAT TRYING TO SAY TO YOU?

HERE ARE A FEW TIPS ON WHAT YOUR FELINE FRIEND MIGHT BE SAYING.

 *Arched back, fur on end.
Among kittens this probably means "come play with me!" As for older cats, it usually means "leave me alone," especially when coupled with a deep growl, stiff movement or solid eye contact.

* Purring.
Cats purr when they are happy, but other emotions can also make a cat purr. Cats will sometimes purr from deep within when they are in pain. They may also purr when in fear or waiting for something to make them happy.

* Hissing.
This means the cat would like some more space. A hissing cat is definitely not a happy cat and should be left alone.

* Kneading with paws.
The meaning of this among adults cats is still unknown because it is typically only seen in kittens. More than likely it is a carry over from kitten-hood that pops up for no particular reason. Most cats as well as owners find it comforting.

* Twitching tail.
Most of the time this means the cat is excited about something it sees, such as a squirrel or bird outside the window. However, it can also indicate predatory or territorial arousal, which may lead to aggression. If this is the case, leave the cat alone until calmed down.

* Tucked tail.
This usually indicates a scared kitty, especially if accompanied by flattened ears, dilated pupils, and growling. Do not be tempted to pick up a fearful cat as it can be dangerous. Just leave the cat alone.

* Swishing tail.
Broad swishing of the tail indicates annoyance, while little movements display curiosity and excitement.

* Leg rubbing.
This is a natural marking behavior for cats. Your cat is covering you with pheromones from glands on her face so you and everyone else in the house will have a comforting group odor. However, leg rubbing can also be an owner-reinforced activity because it usually leads to petting and other favorable attention from you.

* Pet me please.
Experts say cats carry memories of kitten-hood to adulthood. They see people as their own mothers. When you stroke your cat, it may remind them of their mother's tongue grooming their fur.

* Sulking.
Cats portray a sulking expression because they are withdrawing. In hostile situations, the dominant cat stares at her rival. The cat who looks away does not want to risk increasing the hostility.

* Ears back.
This can mean one of two things: If your cat's ears are back and her posture is steady, she's taking stock of her options and preparing her next move. But if her body is low to the ground, she's probably guilty of mischief-better check to see if the curtains are tattered or the sofa is scratched to bits.

* Pricked ears.
In general this indicates your cat's interest in what is going on around her. A raised head, however, means dominance, while a lowered head means submissiveness and a tucked-in head means boredom.

* Scratching.
If your cat scratches your new stereo speakers or your leather recliner she may simply be seeking attention. This may be a good time to re-evaluate your in-home scratching options for your cat. Do you have at least one scratching post that is accessible to her all day? If not, you may want to purchase one and save your furniture.

* Showing her tummy.
When your cat rolls over and bears her belly she is giving you the ultimate compliment. It's her way of saying she trusts you completely.

* Quivering tail.
Many people believe this is the greatest gesture of love your cat can display. Cats will often reserve this for their favorite person.

* Lying low.
If your cat is lying flat or crawling low to the ground, she is feeling sneaky and getting ready to attack. Look out. The "victim" could be your bare feet.

***Besides telling her feelings, your cat's body language may show how she feels physically. To see what body language could indicate health problems see below***

Some body languages can indicate illness or diseases. Your cat needs a trip to the veterinarian if she:

• Refuses to eat
• Retreats from the household, huddling by herself
• Neglects her grooming, with her fur becoming ragged and coarse
• Sneezes repeatedly
• Scratches constantly
• Has difficulty urinating
• Has trouble breathing