You’ve likely encountered the common stereotypes: dogs are unconditionally loyal, while cats are often perceived as aloof and indifferent to their owners.
However, these stereotypes are far from the truth. Research indicates that cats actually develop strong bonds with their human caregivers, mirroring the attachment styles observed in dogs and even children. Our feline companions do indeed love us, even if they show it in their unique ways.
While dogs enthusiastically express their joy with tail wags and face licks, their repertoire also includes smiling – a clear sign of happiness. But how do cats convey their contentment? Let’s delve into the world of feline expressions with insights from a specialist to understand if and how cats smile.
Understanding the Feline Smile: It’s All in the Eyes
Yes, cats do smile, but not in the broad, toothy grin we humans are accustomed to. According to Marci Koski, a certified feline behavior and training consultant, cats express happiness through their eyes. A cat’s smile is characterized by narrowing their eyes, sometimes partially or even completely closing them. You might also notice their pupils constricting slightly during this “eye smile.”
Humans, with our complex facial musculature, are naturally more facially expressive, displaying a wide array of emotions like happiness, sadness, anger, and surprise through distinct muscle movements.
“Cats don’t have that same extensive range of facial expressions,” explains Koski. “Their evolutionary background, originating from regions with scarce resources and large territories, meant that close, face-to-face interactions between cats were less frequent.”
Instead of elaborate facial movements, cats rely on more pronounced body language and subtle visual cues to communicate their emotions. These can include dramatic displays like hissing, growling, flattened or sideways ears, puffed-up fur, or tail twitching to signal agitation or fear.
The “eye smile” is a more understated expression of contentment and trust, used by cats with both their human companions and other cats. Koski shares an observation about her own cats: her son, Oliver, only approaches his mother for cuddles when she exhibits relaxed eye signals, with her eyes nearly closed.
“Cats are adept at interpreting these eye signals as indicators of another cat’s emotional state,” Koski notes.
What you won’t see is a wide, open-mouthed smile with teeth bared in a happy context. For cats, showing teeth is typically a sign of threat, fear, or defensiveness. Therefore, an open-mouthed display of teeth should not be mistaken for a feline smile of happiness.
“Cats will only reveal their teeth when they are hissing or spitting,” Koski clarifies. “While their tiny teeth might seem adorable, seeing them is usually not a positive sign, as it often precedes the display of their larger canine teeth in an aggressive posture.”
Related Read: The Science Behind Catnip: Why Cats Go Crazy For This Herb
Beyond the Eye Smile: Recognizing Overall Cat Happiness
While eye expressions are key, deciphering feline happiness involves observing a combination of facial and body cues.
“Cats possess facial muscles that allow for movement, but the resulting expressions are considerably more subtle compared to humans and dogs,” Koski elaborates. “Upon close observation of a stressed or painful cat, you might detect a furrowed brow or specific whisker positions that indicate their discomfort.”
Body language provides further insights into a cat’s emotional state. A cat lounging on their side with their belly exposed is a strong indicator of contentment and trust. A relaxed tail, loosely extended or gently swaying, also signifies a happy cat. Conversely, a tightly tucked-in tail can suggest stress or anxiety. Happy cats might also engage in what’s known as a “solicitation purr,” a distinct purr sound often used to solicit attention, food, or affection from their humans.
Creating a Joyful Life for Your Smiling Cat
One of the most effective ways to ensure your cat’s happiness and see those eye smiles is through interactive play, according to Koski. As a responsible cat owner, understanding the world from your cat’s perspective – as both predator and prey – is crucial.
Koski recommends dedicating two daily play sessions, each lasting 10 to 15 minutes. Utilizing a wand toy allows your cat to fully engage their predatory instincts, with the toy acting as the simulated prey.
“Playtime is incredibly enriching for cats. It provides an outlet for their natural hunting instincts, reduces stress and boredom, and strengthens the bond between you and your feline companion,” Koski emphasizes.
Aligning playtime with a cat’s natural crepuscular activity patterns – their heightened activity at dawn and dusk – can further enhance their enjoyment. Establishing a routine with play sessions in the morning and evening is ideal.
“Following up a stimulating play session with a small treat or meal is also beneficial, as it mimics the natural ‘hunt-eat-groom-sleep’ sequence,” Koski advises.
While we naturally want to shower our pets with affection, cats also value solitude. Providing ample “looky, no touchy zones”—safe, private spaces where they can observe their surroundings undisturbed—is essential for their well-being. These retreats are particularly important in households with young children or dogs who might not always respect a cat’s need for personal space.
Finally, Koski encourages cat owners to seek professional guidance from a veterinarian or a certified feline behaviorist if they have any concerns about their cat’s behavior or overall happiness.
“If you notice any subtle changes or ‘red flags’ in your cat’s behavior, it’s always best to address them proactively rather than ignoring them,” Koski advises.
Curious to Learn More About Cats? Explore more feline facts with USA TODAY’s Just Curious series, answering everyday questions like “When Do Cats Stop Growing?”, “Decoding Dog Vision: What Colors Do Dogs See?”, and “Can Cats Eat Dog Food? Is It Ever Okay?”. Visit our Just Curious section for more answers to your everyday questions.
