Why do cats wag their tails? Are they happy or annoyed?

Answer 1

Tail Signals in Cats
It's the tail end of the cat that's so expressive
MetPet.com Staff Writer
Are cats considered mysterious because they have very few facial expressions? Do cats always look arrogant because they don't smile? We're just looking at the wrong end to get an emotional read on our feline friends!

Almost everyone understands the wagging tail of the dog, the tail of the cat, however, is still a big mystery to most. A cat's tail is very expressive if you know what to look for. Here are some basic tail signals and what they are generally thought to signify.

Tail lowered with just the tip curved up. This is a happy, relaxed cat.

Tail gently switching from side-to-side. This is a cat who has noticed something interesting like a bird at the window or the scratching sounds of a mouse. It can also signify indecision as to what to do next such as to climb a tree or stay on the ground.

If you approach a cat like this, she could be wondering whether you're friendly or not.

Tail straight up. This is a friendly cat that is coming forward to greet you. If the tip is bent, this could mean he is a little insecure about his reception.

Tail tip swishing quickly and sharply from side-to-side. This cat is irritated or angry. If pushed, it could swipe with a paw or even bite.

Tail swishing quickly and violently from side-to-side. This is an angry or seriously frightened cat that could be getting ready to attack or flee. It's best to back off until he calms down.

Staring at a cat is both threatening and provocative. It's best to look away and move away until the tail switching stops.

Tail bristled. This is an aroused cat. If lowered it can mean fear. It up, it can mean an aggressive cat. Cats bristle their tails and the fur on their bodies when aroused. This makes them look larger than they are in an attempt to intimidate whatever is worrying or bothering them.

Tail held straight up and quivering as the cat is backed up against a vertical object like a bush or tree. This is a cat that is marking its territory with urine. If a cat is doing this inside your house, it's time to get out the cleaner and find your cat another hobby.

Answer 2

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Cats use their tails to express emotion. Some cats are more sensitive to stimuli than others. Usually when your cats tail is thumping it is a warning signal that he's becoming over stimulated. Your cat is enjoying being touched by you, but for some cats this becomes sensory overload and he will lash out and bite or grab your hand and start kicking with his back legs. A good rule of thumb would be to pet your cat softly and lightly. don't be too intense when you're petting and keep an eye on his tail. If it's laying still or twitching slightly you'll be ok. Another good tail signal is when your cat tail is hooked like a candy cane, he's telling you he wants to play. The best tail language your cat will use is when it sticks straight up in the air and quivers at the tip. This means your cat is VERY pleased to see you. My cat does this when I come home from work and when I open a can of food for her. Bottom line is, the tail has a language unto itself and if you pay attention, you'll understand your cat a lot better.

Answer 3

I think it's a little of bolts. I have 2 cats and I have noticed that when the cats are annoyed they will sort of flick their tail dangerously and have a curtain look in there eyes. If they are happy most case scenario is that the cats tail will be high in the air or wagging lazily

Answer 4

It depends on whether it is a 'full' wag (i.e., tail thrashing from side to side, or just the tip moving.

If the former, then watch out - your cat is annoyed or upset in some way.

If the latter then it often indicates curiosity. Cats will often move just the tip of their tail when they are lying down with their back to you - it's as if they are saying "I know you're calling me, but I can't be bothered to turn round just at the moment"!

Independent little critters aren't they?

Answer 5

Aha! Have had cats for years but this kitten is an enigma!. I hand reared when her mother could not feed her - from birth - her only sibling died at 2 weeks of age - she has never vocalised, and has been brought up with my 11 year old lurcher (female spayed) who she adores :) she wags her tail constantly - especially when being stroked or cuddled on your lap when she is really contented! she acts as a "wing man" to the dog when she is barking at people passing our house through the fence , cat goes and sits at the side of her as "back up"!! virtually all the time her tail is wagging to some degree! any ideas?

Answer 6

When cats are happy they keep their tail up. Dogs wag their tails when they are happy. When cats are annoyed, they wag their tails but their tail twitches when its focused. You can tell when a cat is pleased because it purrs. My cat's next move when I don't pay attention is to scratch me.

Answer 7

Cats wags their tales slowly from side to side in small motions when they are curious or playful. They are raised like a question mark when they are greeting you as a member of their family. They thrash their tails if they are angry and the hairs will stand on end if they are very angry or ready to fight. These are the basic movements but there are loads more.

Answer 8

My cats only wag their tails..actually it is more like a jerking motion..when they are wary of something or they are stalking something. Have never seen them wag from happiness as a dog does.

Answer 9

Cats wag their tails for many reasons. One of the most common is when they are happy. This should not be mistaken for aggression. However, the reason they are so content, is because they are imagining their tail aggressively spanking your face. They also find joy in marking their territory on various places all over the body. Such as, the buttocks, thighs, and genital areas.

Answer 10

I feel like one reason for certain tail wagging is kind of like having eyes in the back of their head, to feel for other people or animals when their attention is in front of them. Maybe I can't describe what I mean very well, and maybe I'm totally wrong. .