How do whiskers indicate a cat's mood?
Written by
Susan Taylor
Reviewed by
Prof. Henry Webster, Ph.D.Your cat's whiskers are visible indicators of mood. Depending on how your kitty is feeling, her facial whiskers will be in various positions. You can read your cat's feelings through the position of her whiskers. Relaxed whiskers will sit angled sideways approximately 45 degrees during kitty contentment. If your cat's whiskers are pointing forward, she is curious or alert. Whiskers pressed flat against her cheeks signal fear or distress.
Tiny movements provide emotional context too. A twitch while excited or lying on alert, will mean they're expecting something or are ready to pounce. If they're swaying slowly, they're at ease. Your cat is giving you messages without saying a word: I often know from my own cat's mood before he actually utters a sound. This mute language speaks volumes. Add whisker positions to your assessments of your cat's ears and tail, and you'll have the complete picture of what he's feeling.
Contentment Signals
- Sideways positioning at 30-45 degree angles
- Gentle symmetrical swaying motion
- Paired with half closed eyes and purring
Alert/Curious Indicators
- Forward pointing fan like arrangement
- Slight vibration at the tips
- Accompanied by erect ears and focused gaze
Stress/Fear Displays
- Flattened tightly against the cheeks
- Possible trembling at the base
- Combined with crouched posture and dilated pupils
Context is important to consider when reading whisker signals. The rapid twitching of excitement during play is distinct from the tremulous appearance of stress tremors. Look at the whole body. My cat twitches its tail when annoyed, even though its whiskers are relaxed. Environmental factors, such as new people, will also affect expressions. Learn your own cat's version of whisker language.
Mind your whiskers when interacting with my cat. Approach cats that are engaged and displaying forward whiskers, and avoid contact with flattened whiskers. My cat's whiskers need to relax before I approach her when I go in for a pet; otherwise, she becomes stressed, and the encounter is lacking in trust. Never insist on the touch, disregarding the whisker signal.
The Whisker Language Learning more about the "whisker language" might make your worlds a little better connected. Start watching your cats' positions more closely when they are engaging in activities like feeding or playing, and especially when they are under stressful circumstances. Please keep a record of their moods when the whiskers do their things. I maintained a little notebook for two weeks, and saw clear relationships with mine. This knowledge is what serves your cat best.
Read the full article: 10 Purposes of Cat Whiskers: Why They Matter
