Speaking Feline: The Science of the "Kitty Kiss"

For years, cat owners have noticed that when their pets are relaxed, they often look at them and narrow their eyes into a slow, deliberate blink. In 2020, scientists at the University of Sussex decided to put this behavior to the test. They published a peer-reviewed study in Nature confirming that the "slow blink" is the feline equivalent of a human smile.

The research revealed that when humans mimic this exact sequence—relaxing the face, making soft eye contact, and narrowing the eyes for a few seconds—cats are significantly more likely to slow-blink back. Even more surprising, the researchers found that completely unfamiliar cats were much more likely to approach a stranger's extended hand if the human initiated a slow blink first. In the animal kingdom, an unblinking stare is perceived as a hostile threat. By dropping their guard and closing their eyes, cats signal absolute safety, trust, and affection.

Tales of the cat tail

A cat's tail can tell about what's going on inside her head. It acts as an extension of her thoughts, an indicator of her mood and a warning of intention. Take a little time to observe your cat's behavior and you’ll start to get a feel of the tales the tail tells ...

• Tail curves gently down and then up again at the tip. Cat is relaxed and at peace with the world.
• Tail slightly raised with a soft curve. Cat is beginning to get interested in something.
• Tail is held erect but the tip is tilted over. Cat is in a friendly mood with slight reservations.
• Tail fully erect with the tip stiffly vertical. This is a wholehearted greeting with no reservations.
• Tail fully lowered and possibly tucked between hind legs. Cat is showing defeat or total submissiveness.
• Tail lowered and fluffed out. Cat is showing active fear.
• Tail swishing violently from side to side. Often means that the cat is about to attack.
• Tail held still, but the tip is twitching. Mild irritation. If the twitching increases a swipe from a paw may be imminent.
• Tail is held erect and the whole length is quivering. Gentle quivering may be seen after a cat has been greeted by its human companion. Same action may be observed when urine spraying is taking place! The gesture appears to have a meaning of personal identification...yes, this is me.
• Tail held to one side. Sexual invitation of a female cat in heat. Signal to the male that he can mount without being attacked.
• Tail held straight and fully bristled. Signal of an aggressive cat.
• Tail arched and bristled. A defensive stance which may indicate cat will attack if provoked further. Bristling fur makes the cat appear bigger and may deter the enemy.