The True Personality of Cats
Many people think that cats are aloof and have strong personalities, but when they are scolded or have done something wrong, they actually show a little bit of regret and shyness too!
Cats often get labeled as distant or independent, and while these traits are certainly part of their nature, they are also capable of expressing emotions that reveal their softer side. Whether it's a gentle purr after being reprimanded or a subtle change in body language, cats can demonstrate feelings similar to remorse and embarrassment.
Understanding these nuances helps deepen the bond between cats and their owners, reminding us that beneath their cool exterior lies a complex and affectionate companion.
Japanese pet care specialist Koizumi Ame shared three of the most typical "apology behaviors" of cats. Let's take a look and see if your furry master has ever done any of these to you!
1. Why Cats Yawn: Understanding Their Behavior
Sometimes, when you're seriously scolding your cat, it suddenly lets out a big yawn, making it seem like it's not listening to you at all. However, yawning is actually a way for cats to relieve stress. Especially when they feel nervous or are being reprimanded, they use yawning to calm themselves down. It's their way of saying, "I understand, please don't be mad."
At times like these, it's best to cut them some slack and avoid keeping them under prolonged stress. This helps protect their mental well-being and ensures a happier, healthier cat.
2. Why Cats Intentionally Avoid Looking at You
Some cats will immediately look away when they're being scolded, avoiding direct eye contact with their owners. This is a classic "I surrender" gesture. In the feline world, staring is considered a signal of challenge or threat, so to keep the situation from becoming more tense, cats will deliberately divert their gaze to avoid a face-to-face confrontation.
Sometimes, a cat might even avert their eyes while yawning at the same time, as if to emphasize, "I know I was wrong, please calm down." This behavior is their way of showing submission and trying to de-escalate any potential conflict.
3. When Cats Suddenly Start Grooming
There is another situation you might notice: when you're about to discipline your cat, it suddenly starts licking its fur, as if none of this concerns them at all. However, this behavior is actually a form of displacement activity. By performing an action completely unrelated to the current situation, the cat calms its own nervousness and also diffuses the awkwardness of the moment.
Interestingly, if you observe closely, you'll notice that even though the cat appears relaxed and engrossed in grooming, its ears usually remain perked up, sharply attentive. This is a subtle reminder that your feline friend is still aware of whether you are upset or not.
Understanding Cat Behavior: What "Apology" Actions Really Mean
Contrary to what we might think, cats don't reflect on their actions in the same way humans do. When they perform certain behaviors that seem like "apologies," they are not truly feeling remorse or self-reflecting. Instead, these actions are ways for them to cope with uncomfortable emotions.
However, when a cat displays these so-called "apology behaviors," it usually indicates that they are feeling stressed or uneasy. It's important not to pressure or scold them further during these moments. Doing so can harm the trust between you and your feline friend.
Understanding this can help deepen your bond with your cat and foster a more supportive and loving relationship.
