Cat behaviour 101

They say that we’re never too old to learn new things, and I have to agree. As the editor of Animaltalk magazine, I have learnt so much over the years, and I still learn something new every day. I would like to take you on this journey with me so that we can learn new things together. And if you already know some of these facts, pat yourself on the back!

 

1. Cold shoulder

No, your cat didn’t turn stone-deaf overnight – she is most probably just ignoring you. There could be a variety of reasons why she doesn’t respond when you call her. She could be focused on something more interesting, like a visiting cat outside or a bird perched on a tree branch.

Your cat is most probably not angry at you for doing something that she didn’t appreciate but might merely want some alone time. Remember that your cat is highly independent, and although most cats crave attention, she might not be in the mood for your attention at that moment. When your cat acts this way, let her be. That’s her sign that she wants to be undisturbed – unless it is an emergency, of course. She will come around sooner or later for some affection.

 

2. Tail in your face

Most cat owners know the drill. Your cat jumps onto your lap; she might turn in a circle once or twice, and then she sticks her behind in your face with her tail in the air. Sometimes the tip of her tail might be flickering as well. This is her way of telling you that she trusts and adores you.

In nature, cats greet each other when they do this. With her tail in the air, she invites the other cat, or you, to have a good sniff to say hello.

 

Would you like to read the rest of this interesting article? Get the March/April 2024 edition of Animaltalk magazine now from retailers or order a digital or printed copy from www.coolmags.co.za.