Understanding Why Cats Twirl Before Attacking
1. Enhancing Power Output: Pet owners who pay close attention might notice that when cats walk, their hind legs move alternately in a forward and backward pattern. However, when a cat needs to perform a full leap, both hind legs must exert force simultaneously to propel itself into the air. The cat's wriggling tail aids in this process, making the leap more agile and powerful.
2. Assessing the Environment: Before leaping, a cat's tail wriggle serves as a sensory check for the ground's firmness. For instance, if a cat attempts to jump from a loose or rocky surface, there's a risk of slipping. The tail's movement helps determine if the ground can support the jump and if there's a safe distance for the leap.
3. Preparing for Action: The act of a cat wriggling its tail is akin to a warmup, priming the necessary muscles for the upcoming leap. This preparation is crucial for the cat to execute the jump with greater ease and efficiency.
4. Display of Excitement: A cat's tail wriggle is also a sign of excitement. Before hunting, a cat's body releases a surge of dopamine, establishing a rewarddriven motivation for the next action. Dopamine secretion ceases once the cat successfully captures its prey.
When a cat twitches its tail before an attack, it signifies that the cat is fully prepared to face any danger. This could mean the cat is either irritated or has its sights set on an easy catch. In such instances, anyone approaching the cat may face a反击. Therefore, it's best for pet owners to wait until the cat calms down before getting too close. While many may view tail wriggling as an instinctive behavior, it's actually a learned trait, as kittens do not exhibit this action until around three weeks of age.
Occasionally, in households with both cats and dogs, the cat might engage in a fight with the dog, even if it is usually docile. In such cases, the cat can display an unexpectedly aggressive nature. Pet owners should be vigilant and intervene appropriately to calm the situation. Should you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.
