What Your Pet Is Really Trying to Tell You
Pets may not speak our language, but they communicate with us every day, through posture, movement, facial expressions, and even the position of their ears or tail. Understanding your pet’s body language helps you strengthen your bond, spot stress or illness early, and build a happier, more trusting relationship.
Why Body Language Matters
Animals rely heavily on non-verbal communication. For pet owners, learning to “read” these signals can prevent misunderstandings, aggression, or anxiety, especially in multi-pet homes or around children.
When you understand your pet’s cues, you respond better to their needs and that makes all the difference.
Reading the Signs in Dogs
Dogs are expressive and social, but their signals are often subtle.
Here are a few common cues:
Relaxed and content: Soft eyes, neutral ears, loose body posture, and a gently wagging tail.
Anxious or fearful: Lip licking, yawning when not tired, tucked tail, lowered body, avoiding eye contact.
Playful: Front legs lowered (“play bow”), tail wagging energetically, bright eyes.
Aggressive or defensive: Stiff body, raised hackles, growling, direct stare.
Recognizing these differences helps prevent tension and encourages calm, positive interactions.
Reading the Signs in Cats
Cats can be harder to read, but their signals are just as clear once you know what to look for:
Relaxed: Ears forward, slow blinking, lying on their side or back.
Playful: Tail swishing gently, ears forward, focused eyes.
Stressed or scared: Tail tucked close, flattened ears, dilated pupils, hiding.
Irritated or angry: Thrashing tail, pinned ears, low growl or hiss.
A cat’s tail alone can tell you a lot, upright and quivering often means happiness, while flicking quickly can signal irritation.
Signs of Pain or Discomfort in Any Animal
Body language is also one of the first indicators of illness. Look out for:
Changes in posture (hunched back or reluctance to move)
Hiding or withdrawing from interaction
Growling or snapping when touched
Lethargy, or excessive grooming in one area
If your pet’s behaviour changes suddenly, it could be a sign of pain or illness — not “naughtiness.”
How Fynbos Animal Hospital Can Help
At Fynbos Animal Hospital, we understand that every pet has a unique way of communicating. If you’ve noticed unusual body language or behavioural changes, our veterinary team can help determine whether it’s emotional stress, discomfort, or a medical condition.
We’re here to support you in keeping your furry family happy, healthy, and understood. Remember to visit Fynbos Animal Hospital online shop.