Understanding Cat Behavior

The shelter is a very different environment from home. There are strangers and stressful sounds, and the cat has very little control in a cage. It is important for us to understand a cat’s communication through behavior. Once we learn to take cues from the cat, we can take measures to relieve this stress and help the cat enjoy and take comfort in our company.

Active indicators of stress:

  • Avoidance

  • Lowered posture

  • Spraying

  • Aggression

  • Elimination outside of litter box

  • Hiding without interaction with caretakers or other cats

  • Using the litterbox as a bed or retreat space

  • Stereotypical behaviors (e.g., over-grooming, pacing, fabric eating, head bobbing)

Measures to take to relieve stress on a cat:

  • Avoid looking directly at cat

  • Blink or lower gaze

  • Lower posture

  • Avoid touch

Passive indicators of stress:

  • Reduced activity or mobility

  • Weight loss

  • Unresponsiveness

  • Reduced maintenance behavior (e.g., grooming, sleeping, eating)

  • Passivity or withdrawal (e.g., staying in corners or turning away from the group)

When touching a cat:

  • “Present” a closed hand and await the cat’s response

  • Scratch/rub below chin and behind ears, forehead

  • If accepted, move gently down back; avoid touching abdomen

  • Rub toy under chin to enhance cat’s comfort

  • Use pom pom sticks to test cat’s response to touch