TRANSLATING CAT TAIL TALK

While humans communicate with verbal language, cats “talk” with body position and movement. The cat’s tail expresses emotion and intent not only with the motion but also with the elevation of the tail in relation to the rest of the body, and even whether the fur is fluffed or smooth. Cat tails communicates important information to other animals--and to you, if you can read tail talk. 

The cats’ tail serves to signal that your cat wants more interaction—warns you away out of aggression or fear. Be sure to check out your cat’s tail talk before offering to pet, and it could save you from being scratched!

A relaxed kitty tail curves down and back up in a gentle U. The more interest he feels, the higher the tail. For example, the high-held cattail pointed straight up is the feline equivalent of a “howdy!” and means Kitty welcomes attention and interaction.

A wagging feline tail expresses agitation. This increased kitty arousal may mean simple excitement, fear or even aggression warning you to “back off!” A tucked tail is the cat equivalent of hiding their face because it covers the genitals, and interferes with the sniffing behavior that identifies them to other animals.

What about tailless cats? The Japanese Bobtail or Manx breeds literally have one avenue of communication cut off. They instead rely on other body signals to communicate these important messages, but misunderstandings may happen as a result.

Of course, tails don’t tell the whole story. What your cat’s twitching tail means must be taken within context of the rest of the body. Ear position, elevation of the fur, and vocalizations also offer clues about what your cat wants to communicate. In almost every instance, cats very clearly tells us that they want petting, are afraid, or warn you to keep your distance.

Amy’s Top Tip: Change your cat’s tail-talk attitude by offering a favorite treat like Kitty Kaviar. Kitties solicit attention (and treats!) with a high-held tail with just the end tipped over, like the Balinese cat in the picture.