Why Do Cats Wag Their Tails?

Don't read the tail of a cat like a dog's tail. A wagging dog is likely to be happy. If your cat is wagging, it may be saying, "I'm getting irritated" or "no more now." But why do cats wag their tails, and how can you tell what they wag them for? It's all very simple: a cat's tail is a mood meter. With a little knowledge of some basic signs, you will become more familiar with your cat.

Cats use their whole bodies to communicate. The ears, eyes, whiskers, posture and tail all collaborate.

However, a "wag" is not a single thing in the case of a cat. It could be a slow swish, it could be a quick flick, it could be a big thump or a slight twitch at the end. The speed, the elevation of the tail and the apparent stiffness of the tail are all meaningful.

Many of the new owners are surprised by this sign. If a cat lashes or thumps its tail hard from side to side, it is likely to be irritated.

It can be spotted when stroking your cat. The tail is wagging more, the back skin may ripple and the ears may lie sideways. Your cat's had enough. Keep going, and then it might be followed by a swat or nip. If your cat's tail slaps the ground or sofa, it's clear that your cat needs some space.

A slower, gentle swish is a milder version. It is like a yellow light on the road. Your cat is slightly disturbed by a stranger, noise or change in the home. When the swish accelerates, the mood is getting worse.

Not all the busy tails are cross tails! If a cat is in a crouch stance, looking at a toy with its tail swishing fast, it is likely ready to play. It has wide pupils and forward-pointing ears. The next movement is a wiggle of the back end and then the pounce.

Is there a toy or a moving shadow? Then your cat is in hunting mode, not angry mode.

Other times, only the tip of the tail moves, in little quick jiggles. When a cat looks out the window at a bird, or at a bug moving on the wall, it is common. It demonstrates a great focus. A slight twitch may also signify slight irritation, like when you disturb a sleeping cat.

It's the happy one! A cat that approaches you with its tail held high and the tip quivering is usually excited to see you. Many cats greet their owners this way, and they purr and rub against the legs.

When the tail is straight up it is a friendly message with confidence. When the tail hooks over at the top like a question mark, it is usually a curious and playful mood.

When the tail suddenly looks twice as thick, like a bottle brush, your cat is afraid. The hairs stand up to make it bigger. It is often accompanied by an arched back, flat ears and a sideways posture.

Avoid picking up a cat in this situation. Offer a calm area and let time pass for it to calm down.

The tail wagging can be observed by many cat owners when the cat is lying down on the sofa or napping. When you call its name or stroke it, a soft flick tells you your cat has "heard, but is comfortable." The cat is secure enough to remain in place. If the flicks are faster and harder as it lies there, it might be better to leave it alone.

Some cats will wrap their tail around the arm or leg or around a cat friend. It's a kind, affectionate act. But a low tail tucked tight against the body may indicate that the cat is feeling stressed or unwell.

Most tail movement is normal "cat talk". But be alert for a limp tail, or crying when the tail is touched. Another sign is constant twitching and rippling of the skin and sudden biting at the back. These symptoms may indicate pain or a health issue. If you notice any of them, make an appointment with the veterinarian.

So, why do cats wag their tails? For the most part, to let others know how they are feeling. A hard flick or thump means "leave me alone." A quick swish while crouching means playtime. An upright, vibrating tail is a warm hello and a puffed tail means "fear." Read the tail using the ears, eyes and body. In no time at all, you will know by a glance what mood your cat is in.