Cat Expressions: Can you tell what these felines are thinking?

September 22, 11:07 AMPet Rescue ExaminerSharon Seltzer

Can you tell what is on the mind of each of the cats in the pictures on this page?  The ability to understand the postures and expressions of felines is not really a game. It could be a lifesaving matter for you, your cat and your children. Bites are the second leading reason cats are euthanized or relinquished to shelters. (Urinating outside of the litter box is first.)

Each of the cats on this page is trying to tell you how they feel.  By reading the body language in each picture can you tell who is: Relaxed, Fearful, Aggressive and Playful?  (The key is below).

Here are some hints:

• A Relaxed cat looks peaceful with his tail hanging loosely.  His ears are positioned forward; the whiskers are by the side of his mouth and generally his body tone looks soft. A relaxed cat usually has his mouth closed and may even close his eyes.

• The Fearful feline is typically in a crouched position with her belly close to the ground.  Her ears are flat, her back is arched and she will try to avoid eye contact.

• An Aggressive cat has her back arched, tail erect and ears back.  Her whiskers are flat against her face and both the eyes and mouth are open. The body tone is stiff and tense.

• A Playful kitty has his head raised; eyes are open and he generally looks happy.  His whiskers are relaxed and his ears are pointed forward.  His tail may be pointed away from his body and he may even be lying on his back with his belly exposed.

The school district in Clark County, Nevada will soon pilot a program for elementary grades to help children have a better understanding about pets. One part of the program will be pictures, like the ones above, on how to read the expressions and body language of animals.  The goal of program, which is sponsored by the Heaven Can Wait Sanctuary, will teach children about the need for empathy for all living creatures.

 Key: Top photo - Aggressive

         Second photo - Relaxed

      Third photo - Frightened

      Fourth photo - Playful