Understanding Pet Body Language
Is your pet feeling content, aggressive or shy? Understanding the body language of your dog or cat can give you some interesting insight into what your pet may be thinking.
Rolling - Dogs roll on their backs when they are content and not threatened. They often perform this activity for fun, relaxation or grooming.
Eye Contact - When interacting with other animals, the dominant or aggressive animal will maintain eye contact while the submissive animal looks away. The pupils of a cat's eyes will dilate when he or she is annoyed or prepared to fight.
Ears - Ears that are flaccid and hanging generally indicate boredom or lack of interest. Ears that are perked forward to improve hearing demonstrate attentiveness and active interest. A pet will fold his or her ears back for protection during a fight.
Telltale Signs - The raised tail of a dog often indicates interest, confidence or excitement, while a tail that is lowered usually indicates submission and a lack of confidence. A wagging tail during play indicates no serious aggression. The flicking tail of a cat usually indicates indecisiveness or developing annoyance. To frighten a potential intruder, a cat may turn sideways, raise its tail and bristle his or her fur to appear larger.
Is your pet feeling content, aggressive or shy? Understanding the body language of your dog or cat can give you some interesting insight into what your pet may be thinking.
Rolling - Dogs roll on their backs when they are content and not threatened. They often perform this activity for fun, relaxation or grooming.
Eye Contact - When interacting with other animals, the dominant or aggressive animal will maintain eye contact while the submissive animal looks away. The pupils of a cat's eyes will dilate when he or she is annoyed or prepared to fight.
Ears - Ears that are flaccid and hanging generally indicate boredom or lack of interest. Ears that are perked forward to improve hearing demonstrate attentiveness and active interest. A pet will fold his or her ears back for protection during a fight.
Telltale Signs - The raised tail of a dog often indicates interest, confidence or excitement, while a tail that is lowered usually indicates submission and a lack of confidence. A wagging tail during play indicates no serious aggression. The flicking tail of a cat usually indicates indecisiveness or developing annoyance. To frighten a potential intruder, a cat may turn sideways, raise its tail and bristle his or her fur to appear larger.
Countryside Veterinary Clinic
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Serving Richmond's Pet Families Since 1992
(804) 750-1694