Cats do not express their joys and sorrows like humans using verbal expressions. Although cats have their own language, few people truly understand it. Therefore, we must guess a cat's inner world through some of their movements. So what emotions do different feline body languages actually represent?

　　Most cat owners know that when a cat is unhappy, it will wave its tail in a threatening manner; when content, it will softly meow. These are the most basic ways cats express emotions. At times, a cat will curl up on its owner's lap and occasionally blink or close its eyes, which can be interpreted as the cat asking for a kiss, meaning “I feel safe, I trust you.” If the owner responds with a smile and a blink, the cat usually blinks back as a reply. Interestingly, some cats appear almost hypnotized at this time, gently scratching the owner's leg or arm with their claws; although uncomfortable for the owner, this is a way cats show affection and satisfaction.

　　Cats also gently tap their owners with their hidden claws to attract attention and invite play. Only when defending or threatening will cats extend their claws to strike. Some cats jump onto the owner's bedside in the morning to gently tap and wake them up.

　　Cats and dogs are similar in some ways. When dog owners come home, dogs usually jump, bark, and wag their tails in welcome. Cats greet with a “meow,” similar to a human saying “hello.” Cats also meow when seeking food, but careful observation reveals these two meows differ. Additionally, when the owner returns, a cat will rub against the owner's legs, wiggle its body, and raise its tail like waving a welcoming flag.

　　If scolded by their owner, cats will wag their tails, stiffen their legs, and walk away with a proud stride. This expression of disdain is something usually seen only in humans.

　　Grooming is a daily routine for cats but can also express contempt. Thus, we often see cats keeping a fair distance from dogs, grooming themselves aloofly with an aristocratic air.

　　Sometimes cats suddenly become nervous. The simplest way to judge this is by the position of their ears. If the ears stay pointed backward all day, the cat is definitely extremely tense. Also, when cats suddenly hiss, show fierce eyes, bite objects, or pose as if ready to fight, it indicates tension. A cat that previously used the litter box strictly but suddenly soils around the house, over-grooms causing hair loss, or suffers severe hairball problems is likely stressed. Nervousness can also show through diarrhea, constipation, scratching, biting, and other symptoms. To understand the severity of a cat's stress in detail, a blood test checking lymphocyte levels at the vet can provide clarity.

　　Of course, cats have many other body languages. Their various postures and facial expressions are part of why we adore them. To truly understand what a cat is telling us, owners need to observe their pets carefully every day.