As pet owners, there’s nothing more reassuring than knowing our cats are happy and healthy. Since cats can’t tell us how they feel with words, we have to rely on their behavior and body language. The good news is our cats give us plenty of clues to how they are feeling, you just need to know what to look for.
Here are some telltale signs your cat is happy and healthy.
Curiosity
A happy cat will usually investigate when someone or something new enters the room. Approaching new people rather than running away to hide or peering in when you open a package is a strong indication that they feel confident in their environment.
Displays of Affection
Cats show love in many different ways including rubbing against you, head bunting, following you around, snuggling up to you, or slow blinking. If your cat seeks out your attention and enjoys your company, they feel loved by and bonded to you.
Good Appetite
A healthy cat typically eats regularly and shows interest at mealtime. If your cat starts meowing when it’s almost dinnertime, that’s a great indication they are feeling good. Any sudden changes in appetite, whether it’s eating too much or too little, can be warning signs that something is wrong and a vet visit is in order.
Healthy Sleep Patterns
Cats notoriously sleep A LOT. They usually sleep twelve to sixteen hours a day. Happy, healthy cats keep the same sleep patterns. They sleep in roughly the same places and at the same times each day. Cats who seem restless, lethargic, or are suddenly hiding may need medical attention.
Interaction
If your cat greets you at the door, follows you around, shows interest in what you’re doing, or responds when you talk, it’s a sure sign they feel connected to you.
Normal Litter Box Use
Consistent use of the litter box is a good sign that your cat is physically healthy and emotionally secure. Urinating or defecating outside the box, straining, a change in color or odor, or frequent accidents can indicate a medical issue or stress.
Playfulness
A happy cat is curious and interested in their environment. Whether it’s pouncing on a toy, exploring a cardboard box, following you around, or wrestling with other pets, active play is a great sign that your cat feels safe, stimulated, and energized.
Relaxed Body Language
When your cat feels good, it shows in how they carry themselves. A happy cat might stretch out on their back, show their tummy, purr contentedly, make biscuits with their paws, slow blink, or lounge in the middle of the room. They carry their tails high, walk with confidence, and hold their ears in a neutral position.
Scratching
Scratching is an innate behavior for cats that is not only natural but necessary. Scratching is one way that cats mark their territory. Since cats have scent glands in their paw pads, scratching leaves both visual and scent markers. Cats feel safe and in control when surrounded by their own scent.
Scratching also helps cats release pent-up energy. It can be quite calming for them and a good way to relieve stress, especially since cats stretch out while scratching. It’s a monotonous movement, similar to making biscuits, that cats like to repeat when they are feeling good. If your cat regularly uses their scratching post, that shows they are satisfied with their environment.
Shiny Coat
A healthy cat’s fur should feel soft, clean, and shiny. A dull coat, bald spots, or excessive shedding can indicate stress, allergies, or a nutritional deficiency. Regular grooming is a strong indicator of both their physical and emotional well-being. Conversely, overgrooming or not grooming at all often indicates a problem.
Vocalization
Cats are able to make over 100 different sounds and many of those are happy noises they make to show they are feeling content. A happy cat will typically vocalize to express excitement, affection, interest, or curiosity. Chirps, trills, and soft meows are usually signs that your cat is feeling social and connected.By paying attention to their behavior and body language, you can learn how your cat is feeling and make any necessary changes to keep them comfortable and content. Remember that regular vet checkups, a nutritious diet, a stimulating environment, plenty of exercise, and a lot of love and cuddles go a long way toward keeping your cat happy and healthy for years to come.
Love, Nala
