We often see cats as mysterious creatures that are hard to read and understand as they can be aloof and not as expressive as dogs. While their faces often don’t reveal much as to how they’re feeling, their tails are the opposite.
So why do cats wag their tails anyway? Does it mean they’re happy or sad? Well, it could mean a number of different things, and that’s what we’ll be diving into below.
Do Cats Wag Their Tails To Communicate?
Just like dogs, cats do wag their tails to communicate with you and other cats. Being solitary creatures in the wild, felines don’t vocalize and show a lot of expressions, as they don’t really need to. A majority of their communication with each other center upon mating and defending their territory, and most of the time, they convey their intention through body language, including their tails.
That being said, a cat’s tail language isn’t as straightforward as a dog’s. Wagging, swishing, or flicking of the tail can mean different things in the cat world and can often be confusing. But with enough time and observation, you’ll be able to understand why your cats wag their tails.
10 Types Of Cat Tail Wagging & What They Mean
- Slow Tail Wagging
The slow tail wagging or swishing is a good sign in cat tail language as it often means that the cat is focused on something like watching a bird outside the window. They sometimes also swish their tail when they’re just relaxing and observing their environment, so you can take it as a good sign.
- Fast Twitching Or Flicking Of The Tail
When trying to understand why cats wag their tails, one of the most important motion you should recognize is the fast twitching or flicking. Cats often twitch, flick, or jerk their tail in small, fast movements when they’re playing or focusing during a hunt, so it could just mean that they’re highly focused on something.
That said, cats often flick their tail when they feel annoyed or irritated as well, so observe your cat and use your better judgment before deciding to bug them. Otherwise, you could annoy them further and end up getting swiped at.
- Tail Is Quivering Or Shuddering
A quivering, shuddering, or vibrating tail usually means that your cat is excited or happy. They do this especially when they see you after you’ve been out a long time, or even when they see another cat that they like.
Many cats also vibrate their tail while spraying, so if you see a cat walking around your house or yard with their tail up and quivering, it’s worth checking the area where they were walking at. You might also want to wait for them to be done before you go over to give them a hug.
- Tail Straight Up
A cat with their tail straight up shows that they’re comfortable and confident in their environment. You’ll often see this in cats that are in their own territory. So if your cat does this at home, you should be happy that they’re as comfortable as they can be. Cats will also have their tails up when they’re approaching a friend they trust.
- Tail In A Question Mark
Sometimes, your cat’s tail may stand upright and curve at the end — like a question mark. When a cat’s tail is in this shape, it means they’re happy and would like to greet or interact with you. If your cat approaches you with a curved tail, go ahead and pet them or play with them.
- Tail Wrapped Around Themselves
Cats often wrap their tail around their body when the sleep or sit. This is a natural position for them to sit in and often means that they’re relaxed. It also means that they would like some alone time so it might be a good idea to slowly gauge their reaction when they’re in this position before picking them up.
However, a cat that wraps its tail around itself could also be feeling anxious, defensive, or unwell. If your cat is in this position but doesn’t look relaxed, it’s worth taking a closer look at them. Sometimes, a cat might constantly sit in this position over a few days. In that case, you definitely need to get your cat checked by a veterinarian.
- Puffed Up Tail
When a cat has their tail puffed up, it means they’re afraid or startled by something that could be a threat. This could be a sudden noise, a stranger, a dog, or another cat intruding into their environment. A cat that puffs up their tail will also raise the fur on their body to appear larger to a potential threat.
To help your cat when they’re stressed, you can move the stressors away from your cat. You can also try to gently reassure your cat to calm them down, though be sure to approach your cat slowly and ensure that they’re aware that it’s you or you might suffer a scratch or two.
- Tail Low To The Ground
A cat with their tail low to the ground usually means that they’re afraid, wary, or anxious. Though your cat might also lower their tail while stalking prey such as a bird or insect, so it’s important to observe your cat and not jump to conclusions. That said, if your cat has the tail tucked between their legs, it’s often a sure sign that they’re distressed or in pain.
- They Wrap Their Tail Around You
If your cat wraps their tail around your leg or rubs their tail on you, that means they love you. It’s similar to when you hold the hands of someone you love or when you squeeze the shoulder of a close friend. If your cat does this and then falls or sits down in front of you, then it’s an invitation for you to pet them. If you sometimes wonder ‘Why does my cat slap me with their tail?’, it could just be a playful, affectionate gesture. Cats that are bonded together will often walk side-by-side with their tails entwined or touching each other.
- Wagging Or Thumping The Tail While Sitting Down
When a cat is in a relaxed position, they usually keep their tail still. So why do cats wag their tail when they’re lying down? If your cat is wagging or thumping their tail while sitting or lying down, it could mean that they’re agitated or annoyed. If you’re petting or interacting with your cat and they thump their tail on the floor, then take it as a sign that they want you to stop.
Bonus: Why Do Cats Chase Their Tails
Seeing a cat chase their tail is always funny to watch but have you wondered if it’s normal? Tail chasing is something that kittens often do while playing. Since they are playful and are easily captivated by any moving thing, they’re always ready to pounce on moving things, even their own tail.
This behavior should stop as they grow older and realize it’s more fun to chase other things, but some adult cats do chase their tail just for the heck of it. However, if your adult cat starts doing this regularly, it’s a good idea to have a talk with your vet just to rule out any medical issues.
Now that you know more about why cats wag their tails, we hope you’ll be able to know how your cat is feeling and what they are trying to communicate to you. While a cat’s tail language is important to observe, don’t forget to pay attention to their other body language including their body posture, ears, and eyes. That way, you’ll be better at anticipating your cats’ needs, thus strengthening your relationship.