Changes

'''Facial postures''' are less easily observed at a distance, but they can be changed more rapidly and therefore provide a more precise indication of the cat's state at a given moment. Aggressive facial postures are often supported by vocalisations, such as hissing and spitting, that further intensify their meaning. Changes in ear position, pupil dilation and the display of teeth are often not paralleled by body posture changes, since these are slower to accomplish, especially when the animal has adopted a fully erect or flattened body position.

'''Facial postures''' are less easily observed at a distance, but they can be changed more rapidly and therefore provide a more precise indication of the cat's state at a given moment. Aggressive facial postures are often supported by vocalisations, such as hissing and spitting, that further intensify their meaning. Changes in ear position, pupil dilation and the display of teeth are often not paralleled by body posture changes, since these are slower to accomplish, especially when the animal has adopted a fully erect or flattened body position.

The intention of all postural signalling during a conflict is to '''maintain distance between individuals''', either by intimidating an opponent into a retreat, or by indicating such a low level of threat that an opponent has no attack and the signaller is able to make a discreet retreat. If two opponents engage in physical conflict, one may choose to roll on its back. In dogs, this can be interpreted as a display of vulnerability, and is an appeasement behaviour that diffuses tension and stops further violence. The roll does not carry the same meaning in cats; when in this position a cat is better able to use claws and teeth, and is not attempting to appease or diffuse conflict. After a conflict, there is no need for the kind of post-conflict resolution that is seen between dogs. This is because these feline opponents do not have a social relationship that needs to be resolved.

The intention of all postural signalling during a conflict is to '''maintain distance between individuals''', either by intimidating an opponent into a retreat, or by indicating such a low level of threat that an opponent has no attack and the signaller is able to make a discreet retreat. If two opponents engage in physical conflict, one may choose to roll on its back. In dogs, this can be interpreted as a display of vulnerability, and is an appeasement behaviour that diffuses tension and stops further violence. The roll does not carry the same meaning in cats; when in this position a cat is better able to use claws and teeth, and is not attempting to appease or diffuse conflict. After a conflict, there is no need for the kind of post-conflict reconciliation that is seen between dogs. Post conflict reconciliation between dogs reduces the risk of further conflict, and enables individuals to return to their role within the group. Cats that are not part of a social group are competitors and do not have any relationship that needs to be repaired or maintained.

==Vocal Communication==

==Vocal Communication==