Is Your Kitten 🐈 Happy?

Signs of a Feline’s Bliss

Humans get to choose their kittens, but kittens don’t get to choose their owners. That’s why, as cat parents, we often hope—deeply—that our little ones feel happy and loved in our care. Yet love has a way of making us feel we’re never doing enough; we worry we’re falling short, that we could always give more.

But here’s the thing: Kittens don’t need grand gestures. They thrive on consistency, safety, and quiet care—and they do let us know when they’re thriving. If your cat does these things, rest easy: They’re living their best, happiest life.

1. Purring, especially when you’re near

That low, rumbling purr isn’t just a sound—it’s a mood ring. If your cat starts purring the second you walk into the room, or when you sit down beside them? They’re not just content—they’re overjoyed to be in your presence.

Kitten’s inner monologue: “Life’s good. Come pet me—I’m in the mood for snuggles!”

2. Curiosity about the world

A happy cat is a curious cat. They’ll peek into open drawers, watch birds outside for hours, or bat at a floating dust mote like it’s the most fascinating thing on Earth. This isn’t just boredom—it’s a sign they feel safe enough to explore.

In the wild, fear keeps cats hidden. At home, a curious cat thinks: “What’s happening over there? I need to investigate! Nothing here can hurt me, so why not?”

Kitten’s inner monologue: “Ooh, what’s that? Let me check it out—this place is full of cool stuff!”

3. Zoomies (and lots of them)

Those sudden bursts of energy—sprinting from the couch to the window, leaping off the bookshelf, doing backflips for no reason—are pure joy in motion. Zoomies mean your cat feels relaxed enough to let loose, to play like a kitten, even if they’re all grown up.

Kitten’s inner monologue: “Watch out, world—I’m here! Time to run, jump, and be awesome!”

4. Leaving their litter box “unburied,” especially when you’re around

Cats bury their waste in the wild to hide their scent from predators. But in a home where they feel secure? Sometimes they skip the digging. If your cat stops burying their business and glances at you while doing it? It’s a tiny act of trust. They know they’re safe—no need to hide.

Kitten’s inner monologue: “Meh, someone (cough, you) will handle the cleanup. I’m good.”

5. Sleeping however (and wherever) they want

A happy cat sleeps like they own the place: spread out on your bed, curled in a sunbeam, even splayed across your keyboard with zero regard for your to-do list. They nap deeply, without startles or tension, because they know their environment is safe.

Kitten’s inner monologue: “I’m gonna crash here—wake me if there’s snacks. Or not. I’m good.”

6. A high, quivering tail

A tail held straight up is a cat’s way of saying “I’m feeling great!” Add a little tremble at the tip? That’s excitement—they’re practically waving you over to play. It’s their version of grinning and saying, “C’mon, let’s have fun!”

Kitten’s inner monologue: “Hey, human! Let’s hang out—I’m ready for adventures (or treats. Or both).”

If your cat checks all these boxes, congratulations—you’re nailing this “cat parent” thing. Your little one isn’t just “doing okay”—they’re thriving, wrapped in the kind of security and love that lets them be their full, silly, wonderful self.

Happiness, for a cat, is simple: feeling safe enough to purr, curious enough to explore, and loved enough to let their guard down. And if they’re doing all that? They’re more than happy—they’re home.

Does your cat show these signs? Count yourself lucky—you’ve built a little world where they can be their happiest, truest self. 🐾