Ways to Tell Your Pet Is Happy

Like humans, animals are also capable of expressing a range of emotions. Although they can’t use words to say how they’re feeling, dogs and cats wield body language and physical cues that show what’s going on inside their minds. From purring to smiling, here are some of the ways you can understand your pet’s demeanor.

Cheerful Canines

Here is how to tell when your pup is feeling relaxed and happy:

• Tail Movement: Wagging is a telltale sign that your dog is feeling loved. The way a dog moves his tail can display a range of emotions, too. A relaxed and calm dog will hold his tail in the natural position, but a pup that’s feeling excited may move his tail briskly from side to side. The faster the wag, the happier the dog: you might see his tail move at top speeds when meeting a new friend!
• Relaxed Posture: The way a dog stands can tell us many things about how he’s feeling. When your dog is content, he’ll stand or sit in a natural position. If he’s animated and eager, like when his owner returns home after a day at work, he will begin to bounce or jump. He may even run in circles excitedly!
• All Smiles: A dog’s smile is one of his most endearing qualities. When your furry friend is feeling happy, his mouth will open slightly or curl up at the corners like a human grin.

Cat Contentment

Though dogs rarely show their happiness through vocalization, cats are a different story. Here are some of the ways you can read your cat’s feelings:

• Pleased Purring: Cats purr for many reasons, from nervousness to hunger, but feeling soothed is a common trigger for purring sounds. Your cat may also meow when he’s feeling happy. You can usually tell how happy your cat is by the pitch of his meow. It’s a good sign your kitty is feeling chipper when you hear high-pitched, cheery meowing that sounds like he’s trying to chat with you.
• Bright Eyes: Cats’ eyes are colorful and emotive, and one of the best clues to how a feline is feeling. Your cat may squint slightly when expressing fondness toward humans or another cat, almost as if he’s about to close his eyes and doze off. If you look closely, you can also tell when your cat’s eyes are “smiling.”
• At-Ease Posture: Has your cat ever lounged with his paws tucked underneath his chest? It’s an adorable way of showing contentedness. Natural, relaxed movements are the best indication that your cat is feeling tranquil. You’ll also know when he’s not: a stiff pose or cowering posture will give fair warning that something is bothering him!

For more information about raising a healthy pet, follow the Australia Pet Doors blog. We frequently share tips for dog and cat ownership, including advice for proper exercise and diet, as well as information about the quality pet doors we sell. To get in touch, call us at 0414 922 751.