Decoding Cat Tail Swishes: Understanding Feline Emotion
When a cat's tail is gently curved downwards, with the tip slightly arched upwards, it's a sign that the feline is indulging in a life of leisure and contentment.
A tail that is slightly lifted and softly curved indicates that the cat is intrigued by something in its vicinity.
A tail standing upright with the tip curved shows that the cat is deeply interested in you, friendly, and willing to approach, yet still maintains a degree of reserve.
A tail standing straight up with the tip also straight is a clear sign of eagerness to be close, with no reservations at all.
A tail that is completely drooped and tucked between the hind legs signifies either fear or a submission to its peers, indicating a low social status within the cat community.
A tail pointing downwards with fur standing on end is a clear indication of extreme fear in the cat.
A tail that is vigorously swayed from side to side expresses anger in the cat, and if it continues to sway from one side to the other, it signals that the cat is ready to attack at any moment.
A tail that remains still but the tip suddenly vibrates suggests the cat is feeling restless, and the more forceful the vibration, the greater the likelihood of the cat scratching.
A tail that stands upright and vibrates slightly, often seen in a cat that has just been petted by its owner, seems to be akin to a "personal recognition" feeling.
A tail placed to one side indicates that a female cat is preparing to mate with a male, shifting her tail to signal that the male can approach without fear of attack.
A tail that is straight up and the fur is also standing on end is a defensive signal, suggesting that if threatened further, the cat is prepared to fight back.
Have you learned anything new? Fellow cat guardians, take note of your cat's body language in your daily interactions. With time, you too can become a master of this 'cat language'!
