Cat airplane ears: What do they mean?
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Cat airplane ears
Your cat is an expert at talking to you and letting you know what she’s thinking and feeling. Vocalization is one way she does it, and another way is through body language. As a cat lover, you’re tuned in to what she’s saying. So when you see her display “cat airplane ears,” you naturally want to interpret what in the world they mean. Figuring this out can help you strengthen your bond and insights, as well as alert you to possible health issues.
Read on for more information to help you interpret your cat’s ear language…
First, what arecat airplane ears?
It’s pretty simple: This is when your kitty’s ears are flattened sideways, making them resemble the wings of a plane. Did you know that cats’ ears can swivel an amazing 180 degrees, and they can move independently of each other? This ability helps cats hear high-frequency sounds and express a wide range of emotions.

Annoyed cat
Second,what doairplane ears mean on cats?
Thoughairplane ears can sometimes signify playfulness or arousal, in general, they aren’t signs of a good thing. They often indicates that your feline friend is feeling stressed, anxious, uneasy or frightened and wants to be left alone. They can also reveal feelings of annoyance or aggression. Your cat is on high alert and may be thinking there’s a potential threat around.
Third, why do cats do airplane ears?
Here are some potential reasons:
- They feel threatened.When your kitty thinks he may be attacked (strange dog, new person, something they see outside), he moves to protect himself. He readies himself for attack, and flattening his ears is one way protects his ears in case of a fight.
- They’re scared.Airplane ears allow your cat to detect and listen for potential dangers and decide whether to stay put or try to escape. In a new environment (say, a hotel room when you’re traveling or a boarding kennel), she may feel frightened by the unfamiliarity.
- They’re feeling cautious.When a cat is unsure of what’s going on, his ears can act as scanners to help them take in information about their surroundings.
- They’re annoyed.Yes, we all know that cats can be annoyed by the craziest things. Cat airplane ears can be one sign that they’re P.O.’d about something.
All of the above behaviors are often accompanied by other body language that will help you interpret what your kitty is thinking and feeling. Note low growling or hissing, arched back, withdrawal to a safer space, tensed crouching or twitching tail. Watch out for aggressive behavior if you ignore these warning signs!

Curious cat
Some positive reasons why a cat might display airplane ears
Whileairplane ears generally indicate stress or fear, there are other possible interpretation:
- He’s curious or excited.Airplane ears can indicate your cat has heard or seen something that he wants to explore…cautiously,sincehe’s not sure about it.
- She wants you to notice something.She may be telling you something’s going on – someone at the door, a dog walking past the house, etc. She’s saying, “Look at what I’ve just seen!”
- He’s playing.Sometimescat airplane earsare happy! If he’s zooming around the room, chasing after a toy or pouncing, rest easy.
What should I do if my cat’s displaying airplane ears?
Start by assessing your cat’s body language – happy, stressed, nervous? Try toremove whatever stimulus is causing him to react with negative emotions.Thenstep away, so he has some space to calm down. Don’t try to get close to him and comfort him, as in his aggressive state of mind, he may perceive that as a threat.

Unwell cat
Finally: Let’s discuss health concerns
Does your cat persistently go into airplane ears mode? Tt could be a sign of a health issue, such as an ear infection. In this case, the airplane ears would be accompanied by scratching the ears, shaking the head or holding one ear lower than the other. Ear infections can be bacterial or fungal, or could be caused by tiny ear mites (parasites) that live in the ear canal.Therefore, it’s best to have a vet check this out to give a diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment. You don’t want to ignorecat airplane ears(or any of these symptoms) and end up with major discomfort or hearing loss.
If your cat has an ear infection
You know that ear infections don’t go away by themselves.Banixx Pet Care Sprayshould be a major part of your kitty’s ear infection treatment plan. Whether the infection is caused by fungus, yeast, bacteria or ear mites, Banixx works wonders.
It’s sting-free, non-oily or sticky and made without any steroids, alcohol or antibiotics. It’s safe when used around the eyes or ingested by licking. This fragrance-free, colorless, non-toxic formula is cost-effective and vet-recommended. Relief can really be this simple! Spray 2-3 times daily for 6-8 days, or, as needed. Find out morehere.
In additionto ear infections, airplane ears could be one way your cat is telling you something else is wrong. Be on the watch for other symptoms, such as:
- Not eating or drinking
- Lethargic behavior
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Change in breathing patterns
- Confusion or disorientation
If your cat frequently displays airplane ears and show signs of stress or discomfort, take him to a vet. Early detection of potential issues can help prevent more serious health problems.

Flattened airplane ears
Summary
Your cat has many ways to communicate with you. Cat airplane ears generally indicate that little Kitty is feeling fearful, stressed, uncertain or upset.Alwayslooks for other subtle (and not so subtle) body language indicators to decipher what’s happening with your cat’s psyche. It’s a vital part of caring for your cat’s health and well-being.AndTHAT is a crucial part of developing a trusting, loving relationship with your furry friend.
At Banixx, we are committed to providing you with the knowledge and resources necessary to ensure your cat’s well-being. Visit ourcat blogfor more informative articles, expert advice, and innovative pet care solutions designed to keep your feline companion thriving. Want info onwhy your cat pees on bed? Or advie onhow long to quarantine a cat with ringworm? Together, let’s create a happier, healthier life for your cherished cat!
Sources:
https://www.catster.com/cat-behavior/cat-airplane-ears/
https://catcaresociety.org/decoding-cat-body-language/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw4Oe4BhCcARIsADQ0csmUVX1i06t8BlKctvVAqzRgZSpQpfEGmNvWtidrAI1vIeFtN8jbza4aAqNHEALw_wcB
https://cats.com/cat-ear-positions
https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/cat-airplane-ears-means-felines-094825735.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAD3XI2FdSFyF6wpDFP4F_wNY3K2QbiJ4ZaMPD9TKIVcEcpL3snek0ZppcXPvb6t04F201rc-4g7lb5zGpF6RomzBoOeglQIeFyFNVkHlRtEW4b1JiM6fsGFEnQyFlmF6ighq92k0LGrysm9A_RAqohlPl7Rhl_MjqMz8wvatBakW
https://conservationcubclub.com/cat-ear-positioning-cat-airplane-ears-meaning/