A cat's erection might indicate it's feigning death.
1. If a cat's body stiffens, you can determine whether it is in a state of apparent death by measuring its body temperature. A cat's normal body temperature is 39°C. After death, the body temperature will drop sharply. If the body temperature is normal, it means that the cat is in a state of apparent death.
2. Try squeezing the cat's paw pads, tail, belly, and other sensitive areas; the cat will react strongly if it appears to be in a state of suspended animation.
3. Some cats may feign death when they are severely frightened or trying to escape something. You can try opening a treat that the cat likes and holding it in front of its nose to entice it to react. If there is no reaction after ten minutes, it may actually be dead.
4. If the cat's body becomes soft again after a period of time, as if it has no bones, it means that it is truly dead.
