How Can You Tell If Your Cat Is Happy And Likes You?
The things you see your cat doing are probably what it enjoys.
Flickr/Jennifer WilliamsCC BY-ND

Q: How can you tell if your cat is happy and likes you? – Melissa, age 12, Melbourne

A: Hi Melissa, you’ve asked two great questions - I’ll take them one at a time.

First up, how can you tell if your cat is happy? Cats can’t tell us how they’re feeling, but if we watch their behaviour closely we can work out a lot.

What things does your cat like doing? Does it have a favourite chair or ledge to sit on? Or a favourite window to look out of? Perhaps it likes sitting on your lap, or playing with toys? Most cats love to sleep in a warm place.


innerself subscribe graphic


{vembed Y=DO46_FZWj4Q}

The things you see your cat doing are probably what it enjoys. As long as it gets the chance to do these things then your cat is probably happy. Providing lots of toys to play with is a great way to keep your cat happy, especially if it’s a kitten.

via GIPHY

For example, you could make them a food puzzle - cats have a natural hunting instinct and like to hunt for their food. Find an empty water bottle and put holes around the body of the bottle. Then put some dry food in and put the lid on - as your cat moves the bottle around the food will fall out.

Depending on their personality, cats can show they are unhappy in two ways.

The first kind of cat might hide away under a bed or in a cupboard, and show no interest in playing or interacting. If it also stops eating and grooming this is likely a sign that it’s not happy.

The second kind of cat might pace around, or seek your attention by meowing constantly. These cats might follow you around all of the time, and destroy furniture or other things in your house.

via GIPHY

Some cats can also urinate in the wrong places when they are unhappy.

If your cat shows any of these signs it probably means there is something bothering it. If it’s not eating or cleaning itself, or there are other signs you’re worried about, then it might be a good idea to take it to the vet to see if there is anything wrong.

How can you tell if your cat likes you?

If your cat likes a cuddle on your lap and purrs when you pat it then it probably likes you. Cats will choose to hang around people they really like, the same as you do with your friends. If your cat likes being petted it will probably stay still, close its eyes, and move its head or body so that you rub its favourite places. This might be along the cheeks, under the chin, or between the ears and eyes.

via GIPHY

However, if your cat doesn’t like these things, don’t panic that it doesn’t like you! Some cats are friendlier than others, and your cat might not like to be cuddled, the same way some people love hugs and others don’t. Your cat might still enjoy knowing that you’re around, even if it doesn’t want to come right up to you. 

This is an article from Curious Kids, a series for children. The Conversation is asking kids to send in questions they’d like an expert to answer. All questions are welcome – serious, weird or wacky! 

Hello, curious kids! Have you got a question you’d like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to us. You can:

* Email your question to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
* Tell us on Twitter by tagging @ConversationEDU with the hashtag #curiouskids, or
* Tell us on Facebook

About the AuthorThe Conversation

Susan Hazel, Senior Lecturer, School of Animal and Veterinary Science

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

Books on Pets from Amazon's Best Sellers list

"The Beginner's Guide to Dog Agility"

by Laurie Leach

This book is a comprehensive guide to dog agility, including training techniques, equipment, and competition rules. The book includes step-by-step instructions for training and competing in agility, as well as advice for selecting the right dog and equipment.

Click for more info or to order

"Zak George's Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love"

by Zak George and Dina Roth Port

In this book, Zak George offers a comprehensive guide to dog training, including positive reinforcement techniques and advice for addressing common behavior issues. The book also includes information on selecting the right dog and preparing for the arrival of a new pet.

Click for more info or to order

"The Genius of Dogs: How Dogs Are Smarter than You Think"

by Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods

In this book, authors Brian Hare and Vanessa Woods explore the cognitive abilities of dogs and their unique relationship with humans. The book includes information on the science behind dog intelligence, as well as tips for enhancing the bond between dogs and their owners.

Click for more info or to order

"The Happy Puppy Handbook: Your Definitive Guide to Puppy Care and Early Training"

by Pippa Mattinson

This book is a comprehensive guide to puppy care and early training, including advice for selecting the right puppy, training techniques, and health and nutrition information. The book also includes tips for socializing puppies and preparing for their arrival.

Click for more info or to order