If you are a new cat or kitten owner, your new pet's behavior can often be puzzling. Whether you have never owned a cat before, or are just used to dogs, it is time to learn some things about your new feline so you can understand cat behaviors. A cat's body language is his or her form of communication with you.

Anyone can become an expert in cat psychology if they learn the "tail code". Your kitty uses his tail as a barometer of his emotions. A calm, quiet tail shows you that your cat is feeling comfortable, content, and ready for a snooze. A tail held stiff and high in the air says your kitty is feeling fine and ready for you to pay attention to him.

However, if you notice that your cat's tail has started to twitch or "whap" back and forth, watch out! This signals that he or she is done playing and needs some alone time. The quicker the tail twitches back and forth, as well as the amount of the length of the tail that is twitching can signal exactly how irritated kitty is. Remember, he or she will give you plenty of warning before scratching or biting, so watch the tail.

Now let's examine the general stance of your cat. When your cat is curled up in a ball with a paw over their face, they are sleeping soundly and best left alone. But when you cat is more relaxed and stretched across the floor it could be signaling time to play. Some cat problems can come from not being sensitive to these cues the cat is giving through their body posture about when to play and when to rest.

Flipping onto their backs when wanting to play or interact is a typical example of cat behaviors. Use caution when your cat is in this position, as their bellies are highly sensitive and their response may be reflexive, and as a result you may get accidentally scratched. The wiser choice at that point would be to play and interact with toys, rather than hands.

Watch your cat's posture and tail position as you pet or cuddle him or her. Cats differ from most dogs in that cats often change their minds about wanting to be petted while you are in the act of petting. The cat's posture and tail position often signals this transition. Pressing away with their paws, or a flicking tail, is a good indication the cat is feeling uncomfortable being held. In this way, most cats provide ample warning prior to attacking or lashing out. If you respect your cat's wishes, a strong bond will develop over time. The cat will become more trusting, and you'll develop a wonderful relationship.