It has been suggested that the cat uses its tail for balance, and that may be partly true. However, cats born without tails (like the Manx breed) and cats who lose their tails due to injury, still seem to maintain a good sense of balance.
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When a dog wags its tail, most of us recognize it as a good sign, an indication that the dog is happy and friendly. But when a cat wags its tail, does it mean the same thing?
The cat’s tail is one of the most expressive parts of its anatomy. About 10% of all the bones in its body are in the tail, along with muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves, making it incredibly sensitive and flexible. The tail is one of the ways a cat communicates with other cats and with us. You can learn a lot by watching a cat’s tail.
When a cat holds its tail low as it moves about an area, as if trying to tuck it under its body, the animal is telling you it is unsure about its surroundings. Cats do this when they explore a place that is unfamiliar to them. If its tail is unusually fluffed up, it may indicate your pet feels threatened.
When a cat stalks its prey, it holds its tail low and straight behind the body, except for some twitching right at the tip of the tail. You’ll also see this when a cat is playing hunting and stalking games.
If the tail is whipping or thrashing side to side, do not confuse this with the wag of a dog’s tail. Quite the opposite - this is a sign of agitation or aggression. The animal is saying, “back off - leave me alone.”
However, when your cat walks with its tail straight up, that’s a sign of confidence. If it has a curve or hook on the end and looks like an umbrella handle, your feline friend is probably happy, friendly, even ready to play. If the tip flicks a little bit at the end of the hook, it’s pleased to see you. And when it wraps its tail around your arm or leg - that can be a sign of affection, often accompanied by head butting.
If you ever wonder what your cat is thinking, just remember to watch its tail and learn to interpret its body language. With a little careful observation, you’ll become a language expert and even if you can’t read your furry friend’s mind you might be able to read its mood.
Communication – it’s an important part of any relationship, especially when you’re speaking of pets.
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