Cat tails are super expressive. If we can crack their code, we can understand what our cats are thinking, interpret their behavior, and build their trust more easily.
Common Tail Positions
Dog-like Tail Wagging
Begging with a wagging tail isn’t just for dogs. Cats can wag their tails in a dog-like manner too. When their tail is wagging upward constantly and rubbing back and forth near you, it means your cat is really looking forward to you, trying to please you, and waiting for you to offer them some treats!
Tucked Tail
When a cat tucks its tail or wags it downward, it means they’re feeling scared or upset. This usually happens if a stranger grabs them or they come across a threatening intruder.
Tail Swiping the Ground
When a cat’s tail is on the ground, swishing side to side, it shows they’re on high alert. They might have spotted prey or an intruder, signaling they’re about to take action—either to escape or to attack.
Upright Tail
When a cat holds its tail straight up and doesn’t move it, rubbing back and forth around you, it means they’re in a great mood and trust you a lot. When kittens are born, they can’t relieve themselves on their own, so mother cats lick their bottoms to stimulate them. As they grow up, cats retain this habit, often holding their tails upright and rubbing against their mothers.
Curved Tail Tip
When a cat’s tail is held still with the tip curled, resembling a little “η”, it shows they’re happy, relaxed, and really fond of you!
Fur-raising Tail Wagging
When a cat’s tail is held high and shaking vigorously, with their fur standing on end, they’re ready to attack. They’ll arch their back and puff up their fur to look bigger and scare off threats. It’s best to stay far away at this point.
Other Tail Positions
Slight Up-and-Down Wagging
Slight up-and-down tail wagging might mean your cat is a bit impatient, getting ready to leave, wanting to take a break, or thinking about something else. Basically, their attention isn’t on what’s happening right now.
Slight Side-to-Side Wagging While Moving
When a cat walks with their tail held high and gently swaying side to side, it means everything’s okay. They feel safe and confident in their own space.
Tail Twitching While Sleeping
When a cat’s tail twitches while they’re sleeping, it means they’re dreaming and in a deep sleep. It’s best not to wake them up.
Tail Wagging When Being Held
When you’re holding your cat and their tail starts wagging, they might be feeling nervous or uncomfortable. Try adjusting how you’re holding them to make it more comfortable. If the wagging gets worse, your cat could be getting impatient, and it’s best to put them down quickly.
Tail Wagging While Sitting
When a cat sits and wags its tail, looking like they have nothing to do, they might be feeling bored, unsure of what to do next, or planning something to entertain themselves, but haven’t started yet.
Have you noticed? When a cat’s tail is held still, they’re at their most friendly and trusting towards you, treating you like their mom. Whether their tail is upright, possibly revealing their rear, or the tip is curled, it’s a stationary position showing they truly consider you part of their family.
Whether it’s dog-like wagging to get your attention or an angry, impatient swish, at best your cat sees you as someone they can try to please, but they haven’t fully let their guard down.
