A cat walking with its back arched usually indicates that it is nervous, fearful, or alert. This posture is considered a self-protective instinct, especially when facing potential threats or unfamiliar environments. This posture and behavior can include the following:
Fear : Cats may feel uneasy when faced with strangers, other animals, or unfamiliar sounds, smells, or environments. Walking with an arched back helps them appear larger and more aggressive, thus protecting themselves from potential threats.
Tension and alertness : This posture may also indicate that the cat is highly alert to its surroundings, a state that prepares it to deal with potential dangers.
Pain or discomfort : Sometimes cats walk with their backs arched because of physical discomfort or pain. In this case, arching their backs may be a way to relieve their discomfort.
Social behavior : In some situations, especially when socializing with other cats, cats may also adopt an arched back posture to express different emotions, which may include during play or sexual activity.
When assessing the reasons for a cat's arched back gait, it's necessary to consider other behavioral patterns, body language, and the surrounding environment. If the cat consistently exhibits this posture without any obvious trigger, it's best to consult a veterinarian for an evaluation of potential health issues.
