Why do cats wag their tails?

Content

• The cat's versatile tail
• the positive tail
• the curious tail
• the negative tail
• Cats don't just communicate by twitching their tails

Cats move their furry tail practically all day long. At the same time, they are very communicative animals. These two facts are related to each other. The movement of the tail tells us much more than we believe and know. Hidden in our cat's tail, there could be a big conversation going on.

Why do cats wag their tails? This action is not a simple physical spasm. There are dozens of speeches that can be interpreted from the movement of a cat's tail, which are very different, some obvious and others more subtle.

As we learn our cat's language beyond the meowing, we get to know more about its personality and understand its nature. That's why in this PeritoAnimal article we want to explain the reasons that make your cat wag its tail.

The cat's versatile tail

Thanks to how mobile it is, a cat's tail is one of the most communicative parts of its body. If you pay attention to the behavior of your cat's tail, you will see that there are a lot of different types of movements: it can be raised up, down, diagonally tense, raised with the tip folded down, quick or smooth movements, curled around itself, placed between its paws, completely bristled, among many others. It is quite complex to analyze a cat's tail, as in addition to movements we also have to check how the fur looks: whether flat, bristly or brush-like bristles.

Basically a cat's tail moves because he has something to tell us. Whether it's a wish, a mood or a warning, your cat expresses its inner world through its tail. Most of these movements are voluntary, however some studies indicate that others are involuntary.

the positive tail

• up and shaking: A cat that twitches its tail is a cat that is very excited to see you. These are good nerves and this is a positive gesture. This can happen when you come home from a long day at work.
• pointed up: It's a time for kindness and tranquility. If you have a good relationship with your cat, he will choose to perform this gesture when he is with you. It's also a way to greet him cheerfully. Between a mother cat and her kittens, it happens that the mother raises her tail in this way, to try to get the kittens to follow her or to get her attention.
• Tail stretched forward over your back: This gesture may be a little strange, but it indicates that your cat is really happy and happy with your presence. On an animal level, cats regard them as their equals. This is your way of inviting us to smell your anal glands and be friendly.

the curious tail

• raised at an angle: This does not mean any threat to you or your environment. The cat may be a little insecure about any possible new situation. It usually happens when a new feline friend or person comes to your house for the first time. See how he performs this movement at the same time he smells this new guy.
• Raised tail, with a hook at the end: As if it were a feline question mark. This means that you have a conciliatory but reserved attitude, and you are not sure about something.
• Sweeping Tail: This is one of the most complex moves, because it could mean a number of things. In this case you should be aware of your cat's other types of body language to know exactly how he feels (ears, body, etc). Sweeping the tail from side to side irregularly can mean things like: a great interest and attention in something (a toy, a prey), ecstasy of bodily hygiene, frustration and anger if the tail hits the ground, a invitation to another cat friend to play.

the negative tail

• Hook at the base of the tail: When the hook is inverted, it is a movement that indicates that the cat is in a defensive situation and is ready for aggression. In general, the tail will also be bristly and the loin arched.
• Tail raised and shaken: This is a sign that the drama is coming. This type of tail usually conveys an emotion full of intensity. It can indicate an ironic attitude in your cat and at the same time tell her that you are angry about something and prefer to be alone. He will do this as he walks past you, without stopping, showing indifference.
• brush tail: If your cat's tail swells and its fur is thick and still like the bristles of a brush, don't get too close. The cat feels threatened and is very likely to be aggressive. The same happens when you keep it short and straight, but with this type of hair.
• tail between paws: Your cat is afraid, uncomfortable and even wants to be alone. This is a submissive tail, but at the same time, it's not good to be careless and let your guard down.

Cats don't just communicate by twitching their tails

Now that you know because cats move their tails, it is important that you also know that this is not the only way they have to communicate with their environment, as they also use their ears, body position or their head, among other things to show us their state of mind and give us to understand what's going on. So, watch carefully, follow your instincts and empathize with your kitten.