Now, I growl when I am pleased and wag my tail when I am angry. Owners may notice that when the cat is sitting on their lap it slowly blinks and momentarily shuts its eyes. If the owner gives a soft smile and blinks slowly many cats will respond by blinking back. When the cat is in this mood it will often appear mesmerised and knead the owners lap or arm with its front paws, often with the claws extended which can be quite uncomfortable for the owner.
Cats also pat with their paws.
In contrast to the defensive or angry swipe with claws out, the gentle pat with claws retracted is the cat's way of getting attention or inviting play. On returning home a dog owner will be greeted with joyous bounds, barks and wagging tail. This particular meow will be quite distinctive and used only as a greeting. The cat will also rub around the owner's legs and purr and the tail will be carried flag- like in greeting. The owner who has upset the cat will also be familiar with rear view of their departing cat with the erect tail stiff legged haughty walk which very clearly demonstrates the distain with which mere humans should be treated.