The loss of the supporting fat pad behind the eye in cats that lose a lot of weight due to illness, can cause the eyeball to sink into the eye socket and the eyelids to roll under. Foreign bodies, such as grass seeds as well as cat scratches to the surface of the eye, can lead to corneal ulcers which then results in conjunctivitis. Pure breed and shelter cats are more likely to experience cat flu as they have a higher likelihood of exposure.Ĭonjunctivitis can also be seen when cats have reactions to various allergens such as plant pollens, fleas and foods. It is very contagious and can be contracted by either direct contact between cats or via infected food bowls or bedding. an anxious cat having a new cat introduced into the household).Ĭat flu is transferred in infected discharge from the eyes and nose. have feline AIDS) so often there is an under-lying illness or sometimes a behavioural issue (eg. Herpes viruses re-emerge when cats are stressed or immuno-compromised (eg. There are a number of pathogens associated with cat flu, with the most common being feline herpes virus, feline calicivirus and a chlamydial (bacterial) infection. In fact, the slow blink said to be a cat’s way of smiling at you.The most common cause of conjunctivitis in cats is due to cat flu. This action indicates that a cat feels safe and comfortable. However, pupils may also dilate in low light. This may indicate that a cat is agitated however, cats’ pupils will also constrict in brighter light.Ī cat’s pupils will dilate when he becomes fearful or angry. This kitty is actively taking in the world around him. When a cat’s ears go back like this, it’s a sure sign that the animal is fearful or angry and may act aggressively. This kitty’s ears indicate that he’s irritated, anxious or frightened. When a cat’s ears stand at attention like this, the animal is alert because something has caught his attention. EarsĪ happy, relaxed or playful cat’s ears will point up and be positioned slightly forward. When a feline’s tail is whipping back and forth rapidly or slapping the ground, this indicates an irritated cat that may act aggressively. You may see this tail movement occur just before your cat pounces. This slow-swishing tail often means a cat is curious, and the animal’s attention may be focused on something in particular, such as an insect. Cats puff up like this in an attempt to look larger and frighten off the perceived threat. If your cat’s tail suddenly becomes big and bushy, you’ve got a severely agitated animal on your hands. There’s likely something in the environment that your pet is responding to negatively. This tail position means a cat is anxious or fearful. However, some cat breeds tend to carry their tails low, so it’s important to know what’s typical behavior for your pet. TailĪ straight-up tail with flat fur and a tail held high with a curve at the tip like a question mark both indicate a happy, playful, approachable cat.Ī cat that’s carrying his tail low to the ground may indicate that he feels threatened and could act aggressively. However, it’s important to take other factors into consideration when assessing a situation, including the environment, your cat’s personality and your cat’s comfort level with being harnessed and outdoors. The illustrations below will help you better understand felines’ nonverbal cues. If you can tell that your cat is truly enjoying himself, you may want to extend your hike and venture into new terrain, but if your cat seems frightened or on edge, you’ll know it’s time to head back indoors. “Cats are constantly communicating their pleasure, displeasure, boredom, anxiety or illness, but it can be nuanced and easily missed if we don’t take the time to notice,” said holistic cat behaviorist and celebrity cat consultant Layla Morgan.īeing able to accurately gauge your cat’s mood is especially important when taking him outside. Through their body language and facial cues, cats can tell us if they’re comfortable, afraid, aggressive or even ready to play. Cats may seem like mysterious creatures that are impossible to read, but our felines are actually communicating with us all the time.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |