Cats have additional vocalizations in addition to the usual hisses, growls, chattering, and meows. Nonverbal communication, like tail talk, offers numerous advantages over vocalizations. For instance, sounds may be used to tell where a cat is, but posturing cannot.
Many cat owners are surprised to learn that cats mostly communicate with their ears, which can provide a plethora of important information about a cat’s attitude or next move.
Cats use a variety of nonverbal cues to communicate.
Cats communicate silently by moving their bodies, making facial expressions, and making gestures. In the cat’s eyes, one may perceive its feelings.
For instance, happy and content cats frequently have wide-open eyes, or just slightly closed eyes if they are utterly at ease. When they are at ease, cats may look their owner in the eyes and hold that gaze for a while. Dilated pupils are a common sign of either fear or hostility in cats. The sideways-facing ears flutter or vibrate rapidly in response to high arousal. Here are four illustrations of how cats communicate different emotions with their ears, from agitation and anxiety to curiosity and unease.
Curious
The ears protrude and indicate curiosity. The funnel-shaped pinna (external ear flap) is aimed in this way toward interesting sounds to learn as much as possible about the situation. Owners may notice that their cat points its ears in the direction of even the smallest sounds when it is dozing off.
Uneasy
When a cat senses danger or uneasiness, their ears turn to the side. Each side of Kitty’s head features projections that resemble airplane wings. This could quiet any ominous noises. Furthermore, ears on the side are better protected. Airplane ears are a warning sign that you should back off and stay away from whatever it is that has alarmed the cat.
Agitated
Flickering ears may be a sign of increasing stress.
Fortunately, there are other indicators of a cat’s temperament that owners can observe, such as how simply the cat holds its ears. If this keeps happening, it can be a sign of a health problem. If the dog, person, or other cat that is rousing the cat does not leave, the cat may become a threat or attack.
Angry or terrified
In times of fear or rage, cat’s ears may tilt backward or flatten close to the head. This protects the ears from claws and fangs while preparing for either fighting or running. Cats with slicked-back ears may strike if their assailant ignores the warning.
Owners can use their cat’s ears as a barometer to anticipate and avoid potential problems.
If you suspect your pet is sick, contact your veterinarian straight away. When in doubt about your family pet’s health, always see your veterinarian. They have examined your pet, are aware of its medical history, and may be able to offer the best guidance for your pet.
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