Cat love by Anita Kelsey
The journey of cats from their origins to becoming beloved companions has been marked by a rich history. Documented in recent BBC Documentary ‘Cat Wars’, these charismatic creatures have emerged as the most popular companion animals in the Western World. Tracing their ancestry from the big cats of Africa, cats have been domesticated and revered in ancient Egypt, endured vilification in Medieval Europe, and now enjoy adoration from millions of cat lovers across the Western Hemisphere. It is incumbent upon us to reciprocate this affection by providing them with the best care and attention possible, which begins with understanding their unique modes of communication.
cat love
Cats express their affection towards humans in distinctive ways that differ from their interactions with other felines. For instance, cats have learned to vocalize to solicit food or attention, a behavior we recognize as the endearing “meow.” However, cats don’t employ vocalizations in the same manner when communicating with fellow cats; instead, they may use vocalizations as threats or during territorial disputes. To bridge this communication gap, it’s essential to discern the subtle cues your cat may exhibit.
A contented cat often greets its human companions with a raised tail, exhibiting excitement through playful tail movements. It may rub against you, marking you with its scent, and weave through your legs, seeking attention and affection. Confident and sociable cats extend this behavior to visitors, reveling in human interaction and physical contact. Conversely, some cats may display shyness towards strangers, avoiding confinement in human arms and reacting adversely to prolonged petting. However, this reserved demeanor doesn’t diminish their potential for affection; rather, they express it in more subtle ways and on their terms.
cat love
Understanding a cat’s body language is crucial in deciphering its mood and needs. A cat that holds its tail close to its body or tucks it underneath indicates insecurity or vigilance, requiring space and minimal disturbance. By respecting their boundaries and offering gentle encouragement, such as slow blinking, we can help them acclimate to new environments and build trust. Additionally, paying attention to your cat’s reaction to physical contact can prevent overstimulation and potential aggression.
Ensuring your cat’s well-being extends beyond affectionate gestures to dietary considerations. As obligate carnivores, cats require meat-based diets to thrive, emphasizing the importance of high-quality, wet food options rich in essential nutrients. By prioritizing their dietary needs and providing stimulating play opportunities, we can enhance their physical health and emotional fulfillment.
cat love
In conclusion, by attuning ourselves to our cats’ communication cues, respecting their boundaries, and prioritizing their dietary and play needs, we foster a harmonious relationship based on mutual understanding and affection. This conscientious approach to cat care not only enriches our lives but also strengthens the bond between humans and their feline companions. So, rest assured, your cat’s love for you is undoubtedly reciprocated in countless ways.
About this author:
Anita Kelsey holds a first class honours degree in Feline Behaviour and Psychology (work based BA Hons) and runs a vet referral service dedicated strictly to the diagnosis and treatment of behaviour problems in cats. She is also a qualified cat groomer and specialises in grooming aggressive or phobic cats. Anita writes for Your Cat Magazine and is on their experts panel answering readers questions on cat grooming. She also advises on feline behaviour for the CFBA (Canine and Feline Behaviour) magazine as well as being a full member. Anita, a strong advocate of a vegan lifestyle, is based in London but consults all over the UK as well as international requests. She lives with her husband, a music producer, and one Norwegian Forest cat, Kiki.
Her first book ‘Claws. Confessions Of A Professional Cat Groomer‘ was published by John Blake in 2017 with her second book, Let’s Talk About Cats released on Amazon US and UK 2020. Her third book about cats will be announced this year and will be available to buy soon!