cat communication

A series of cats making different faces

Cats have more facial expressions than we give them credit for

Caitlin Dempsey

Researchers analyzing cat interactions in a cat cafe have found that cats can make 276 different types of facial expressions.

A black cat and grey tabby lying next to each other.

If Cats are Independent, Why Do They Form Bonds?

Caitlin Dempsey

Despite their independent reputation, cats do form close bonds with humans and other cats.

A black cat and grey tabby lying next to each other.

Zoosemiotics of Cats

Caitlin Dempsey

Zoosemiotics of cats is the study and interpretation of the vocal, body, olfactory, tactile, and visual cues that cats use to communicate their emotions and needs.

An orange cat siting on a tree looking.

Why Do Cats Wag Their Tails?

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats will wag their tails for a variety of reasons.

An orange tabby sniffs some cat grass in a gray pot on a wooden table. Colorful paper lanterns on the ceiling are in the background.

Cats Prefer Both Visual and Vocal Communication From Strangers

Caitlin Dempsey

Cats are more willing to approach strangers who both use both vocal and visual communication.

Two tabby cats walking down a soil path next to grass with their tails entwined.

How Cats Show Affection Through Their Tails

Caitlin Dempsey

From tail puffing to twining to rubbing, cats use their tails in a variety of ways to express their affection and establish bonds with those around them.

The head of a gray tabby being put under the chin.

How Do Cats Like to be Pet?

Caitlin Dempsey

Most cats enjoy being pet by their owners - learn to understand how your cat communicates they want to be pet.

Two gray tabbies playing on a light gray couch.

Playing or Fighting: How to Tell What Your Cats are Doing

Caitlin Dempsey

You can tell the difference between cats playing or fighting by looking at their body language and vocalizations.

A gray tabby sitting in the lap of a person wearing a burnt red sweater.

What a Cat’s Slow Blink Means

Caitlin Dempsey

One way cats express their affection and trust is by slow blinking.

An orange tabby cat playing at the feet of a person with white sneakers. A black and white cat is lying next to the sneakers.

Why Do Cats Like to be Near You?

Caitlin Dempsey

Here are some of the reasons why your cat likes to be near you.

An orange tabby looking out of a window and a human finger pointing in the same direction.

Do Cats Understand Pointing?

Caitlin Dempsey

While it's not an instinctive trait, cats can learn to look where a human is pointing.

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