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Tail Of The Cat
A
cat's tail acts as an extension of its thoughts, an indicator of its mood and as
a warning of intention.
Annoyance
Broad swishing of the tail indicates annoyance. For example, a cat that
decides it's had enough petting will signal you by swishing its tail in
impatience. If you continue, your cat may "bat" you with it's paw or growl
softly. Though usually good-humored, the batting is an act of aggression
indicating your cat's agitation.
Severely agitated
Agitated cats will move their tails rapidly back and forth from the
base, a clear threatening signal. Generally speaking, the larger and more rapid
the swish, the more upset the cat. It is to the cat's advantage to exhibit a
visible warning to other cats (and to you), in an effort to avoid direct
conflict. Cat's involved in a conflict may extend their fully bristled tail
straight into the air and turn their body sideways to appear larger.
Fear or Submission
If a cat is afraid or is trying to avoid a confrontation with a dominant
cat, it's tail will "puff up" or become bristled. It will then lower it's tail
or tuck it betweens it's legs as a sign of submission.
Excitement or Curiosity
Twitches of the tail display excitement and curiosity.
A raised tail, as long as the fur isn't bristled, indicates that the cat is
being friendly. If the cat is really excited, as often happens when you come
home after a long day at work, or when you open a can of cat food, the upraised
tail might begin to twitch with anticipation. The cat will probably next try to
talk to her owner, or begin rubbing against her owner.
Some Other Thoughts On Cats
A cat has absolute
honesty...
A cat will show you how it feels about you.
People hide their feelings for various reasons,
But cats never do."
Ernest Hemingway
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