The Secret Language of Cats: 7 Signals Every Cat Lover Should Know

Cats are not mysterious. They are extremely clear communicators — we just never got the dictionary. Here are seven signals, decoded, from the resident experts at The Cat House in Seminyak.

1. The slow blink

A cat that looks at you and slowly closes its eyes is saying I trust you enough to stop watching you. Slow-blink back. Congratulations, you are now fluent in the most important sentence.

2. The vertical tail

Tail straight up, tip slightly curled: this is a greeting reserved for friends. Kittens do it to their mothers; your cat does it to you. Take the compliment.

3. The chirp

That half-meow trill when your cat spots a bird? It is excitement with nowhere to go — and possibly an invitation to come look. Go look.

4. Kneading (making biscuits)

A leftover kitten behavior linked to comfort and contentment. If your cat kneads you, you have been officially classified as soft furniture. This is the highest rank a human can hold.

5. The belly reveal

A display of total trust — and, famously, not an invitation to touch. It is a compliment, not a contract.

6. The head bunt

Cats have scent glands on their cheeks and forehead. Bunting marks you as territory. You belong to them now. (You always did.)

7. The gift

A toy, a leaf, an unfortunate insect delivered to your feet: your cat providing for the family. Say thank you. Dispose of it later, discreetly.

Want your fluent-in-cat status printed on fabric? Send us a photo — we will put your cat on a DOKOYO.