Cats are so mysterious! Sometimes, their body language is simply too complex for us humans to decode. One question asked by numerous cat owners the world over is, “why does my cat show me her belly?”
So, why do cats act the way they do? What do they want when they show us their fluffy undersides?
There are many possible reasons that cats display their bellies to their human companions. And, while it might be tempting to scratch those fluffy little tummies, take note that not all cats appreciate a belly rub. If you try this on the wrong cat, you might end up with some new scratch marks!
This article breaks down what it means when your cat rolls onto his back and exposes his stomach. Hopefully, you will learn to interpret your pet’s signals and know how to respond appropriately to make him happy.
Why does my cat show me his belly?
A cat’s belly is considered its most vulnerable body part. This is the area where most of their vital organs are placed. Hence, it is a cat’s instinct to guard his belly against predators and from potential injuries at all costs.
But, at some point, he might reveal his belly to you or to other animals for a variety of reasons. Of course, this behavior will depend on the cat’s individual personality and his relationship with you or your other pets.
Here are some of the reasons your may be doing the cute belly pose:
1. Your cat trusts you
Independent as they are, cats do not often show their sensitive bellies to just anyone. If they do, it is a sure sign of affection and trust toward the person or animal that the cat is showing it to.
A cat’s stomach is not often visible when it lies down. However, when a cat trusts you, it will roll over on its back and expose its tummy as a sign of trust. Take this as a compliment and give him a pat on the head or scratch her behind the ears. But avoid the belly rubs, unless your kitty is used to it!
2. Your cat is in defensive mode
Cats might show their belly when they feel threatened. Perhaps you were playing with your fluffy friend and he started to feel overstimulated, so he rolled onto his back to assume a defensive position.
A lot of cats might also roll onto their back to defend themselves in an actual catfight. While their most vulnerable part might be exposed, this position gives them the advantage of using all four sharp claws in case an enemy attacks them. There are also cases when cats show their tummies to their enemies as either a sign of intimidation or submission.
In most cases, though, a cat would prefer not to show its belly when it feels threatened, rather keeping it tucked away. Instead, the cat will show its teeth and arch its back to appear intimidating and a bit larger than its enemy.
In the cat world, the belly is considered a territorial zone, so cats might also use it to display their status in relation to other cats. This is called “bellying,” and it is not uncommon for cats to engage in a standoff using belly displays. They might expand their bellies and make themselves as wide as possible if they feel threatened.
3. Your cat wants attention
Sometimes, cats use manipulative tactics in order to get their owners’ attention, including displaying their fluffy bellies. And they know that it usually works, because no one can resist this cutest of poses – not even the busiest human!
So, when your furry friend exposes his belly, he may actually be soliciting your love and affection. He wants to be close to you! Thus, you should take it as a green light to pet or cuddle him.
Cats might also display their tummies as a friendly gesture to introduce themselves to someone new. But of course, that will depend on the cat’s personality and how well-socialized they are. For example, an outgoing kitty will not mind rolling onto his back to invite a stranger to pet him. However, you might not expect the same response from an introverted or previously-traumatized feline.
4. Your cat is marking his territory
Not all belly poses are actually adorable poses! Sometimes, cats do this to rub their backs on the floor, table, or other furniture to mark their territory. They might also rub their chin, tail, and rear end to leave their unique scent and warn other animals to back off. You might notice this more often if your cat is not spayed or neutered, or if you have multiple pets living under your roof.
Cats might also rub their pheromones if they are trying to greet another pet or human. There are many ways they can use to accomplish this greeting ritual, including head bumps, nose and butt sniffing, and rubbing their backs and rear ends to leave their scent on the walls, floor, or furniture.
5. Your cat is relaxing
If you have been a cat parent for a long time, your cat’s strange yoga poses are probably nothing new to you. Cats need to stretch their muscles, too, to keep them supple and ready for action. They need to relieve the tension in their spines and back muscles to maintain their mobility and flexibility, even if it means exposing their most vulnerable body part.
Additionally, cats also roll onto their backs if they feel comfortable and confident around their companions. So again, take this as a compliment, and have your phone ready to take pictures! Sooner or later, your furry friend might fall asleep in this adorable belly pose, and you will have some cute memories to share online!
6. Your cat is in heat
If your female cat is intact, she might show off her belly to attract a potential male cat nearby. This is because cats’ reproductive organs are located in their lower abdomens, so it makes sense for them to show off that area. Females also tend to display their stomachs as a sign of affection while mating.
Hence, when your cat is in heat, it should not be surprising if she behaves this way. Her reproductive system will be activated, and rubbing her back against the floor will help her leave her pheromones and attract a male cat.
Do cats trust you if they show you their belly?
In the cat world, ”bellying up” is a clear indication of trust toward their human parents. Cats do this because they approve of you and want to socialize with you. Showing their tummy is also an indication of affection, submission, comfort, and happiness.
So, unless your cat is in defensive mode, seeing that vulnerable stomach right in front of you is generally a message of love. But again, it might not always be an invitation for belly rubs! It is much safer to pet your feline on other body parts where he enjoys being touched.
How to tell if your cat wants you to rub his belly
So, your furry friend just loves exposing his fluffy belly and you can no longer resist the cuteness! How do you know if your cat wants a belly rub?
One way would be if the cat rolls around on the ground whenever he sees you. If he is purring, meowing, or “kneading bread”, it might be an invitation for a belly rub. Cats might also lick their owner’s face and head as a sign of affection. So, go ahead and do the honors! Start with short petting sessions and see how your kitty reacts.
It is also vital to know your cat’s petting threshold and make adjustments until he becomes comfortable with belly rubs. Do not force it if you notice any signs of discomfort or aggression. Otherwise, you will be in for a painful surprise! Learn when to back off to avoid your cat’s sharp claws and teeth.
Conclusion
Cats show their bellies as a sign of affection and trust. But that is not all! Sometimes, our whiskered friends will sleep on their backs with tummies exposed if they feel safe, comfortable, and content.
So, if you notice your feline showing off his belly, take it as a sign of love and affection. But be sure to know your cat’s preferences very well before getting near his stomach, or you might be on the receiving end of a quick nip or scratch to the hand!
Image: istockphoto.com / DebraCarrPhotography