What does it mean when a cat arches its back?

Cat arching its back mainly indicates the following situations: stretching, being startled, hunting, being angry, intimidating enemies, playing and practicing, seeking affection, and being sick. If the cat is arching its back without any abnormalities, it might be a behavior of stretching. If a wild or stray cat arches its back, it is likely to be a sign of preparing to attack, so it's best to leave quickly to avoid accidental scratches and bites.

Stretching

When a cat stays in one position for a long time while sleeping or lying down, its body can become numb. To make itself more comfortable, the cat will stretch itself, arching its back and pressing it down. In this case, the cat is just stretching its muscles, which is a normal phenomenon, and owners don't need to worry too much.

Being startled

When a cat is startled, it enters a state of high mental tension. Arching its back allows it to react more quickly and prepare for battle or escape. It will also accompany fur standing on end and emit hissing sounds to scare off threats. For example, if the cat is frightened by toys, loud noises, or seeing dogs, it may arch its back suddenly. In this case, owners should not approach the cat too closely, or they may be attacked easily. It's recommended to wait for the cat's emotions to stabilize before petting it.

Hunting

Cats will also arch their backs when they hunt, mainly to "charge" themselves for jumping or sprinting, making them more explosive and increasing their chances of success!

Being angry

When a cat is angry, it will arch its back and raise its back fur to express its dissatisfaction. Owners should also avoid provoking them at this time.

Intimidating enemies

If a cat encounters an animal stronger than itself, it will arch its back to appear more powerful and scare off the enemy.

Playing and practicing

If it's a kitten, it may randomly arch its back and run around, looking rather neurotic. This is actually a signal for the owner to play with them and experience the fun of hunting and playing. If there are multiple kittens at home, this behavior will be quite common. Two kittens with fluffed-up fur and arched backs chasing and fighting each other are practicing hunting skills.

Seeking affection

When a cat wants to be petted, it usually archs its back and moves closer to the owner when they stroke its head. The cat wants the owner to also stroke its back and buttocks. Additionally, when a cat wants to mark its scent on the owner, it will arch its back and rub against the owner, transferring its scent to them, which indicates its possessiveness and satisfaction with the owner.

Being sick

The previous reasons for arching the cat's back are temporary, but if the cat walks with an arched back for a long time, it might be sick or injured. If the cat also shows symptoms such as meowing, shivering, and refusing to eat or drink, it means the cat is in pain. It's recommended to take the cat to the pet hospital as soon as possible.