Anyone who knows cats knows communication is not their strong suit. So often trying to tell you a hundred things at once, their meows can be hard to decipher and may make it difficult to understand what they’re truly after. Thankfully, there is one part of a cat’s body language that can almost always tell you what is going on in their head. That is their tail.
Keep reading to discover the meaning behind their tail and how it can make all the difference in your relationship with your furry friend.
A straight-up tail
A tail pointed straight in the air means your cat is confident, sociable and ready to play. These cats are happy and content with their surroundings. You’ll find that these cats typically have their guard down and will feel more relaxed, often finding a comfortable spot next to you on the couch to enjoy their afternoon.
A hook-shaped tail
These cats are feeling friendly and playful. They’re ready to run and chase their favourite toys around and around and around. When your cat is in a playful mood, you may be able to teach them tricks, such as sit, spin and lie down. Use treats to keep their minds active and attentive so they can focus on the task at hand.
A puffed-up tail
Puffed-up tails are not usually a good thing. This usually means that they are irritated and frustrated. It can sometimes indicate they are frustrated and that something has made them feel uncomfortable in their territory. These cats typically need space and room to calm down. It’s also important to try to determine what has caused them stress so you can remove this from their space.
A slowly swishing tail
These cats are focused and are usually tunnelled visioned onto something. This could be a bird outside, a toy, or something else. They are typically ready to pounce and are in full hunt mode. This slow swish doesn’t mean they are angry, but they could anger quickly if they are unable to catch their prey. If their tail begins to twitch instead of swish, they are likely moving toward a point of frustration. Redirecting this frustration with a treat can help them feel they have successfully caught their prey, even if they haven’t.
A pointing down tail
When a cat’s tail points down toward the ground instead of up, they are feeling anxious and scared. You may notice this behaviour if you introduce another animal into your house or if something were to infringe on their territory without warning, such as a house guest. These cats will usually retreat to hiding and may find comfort in being alone for a while. Permitting them to do so will ensure they’re back to their normal selves again in no time.
We understand all things cats
Want help understanding your cat’s behaviour so you can form a better relationship with them? At PetNest, we are the experts in all things cats. We even supply products to ensure your feline friend can feel their best, whether they’re overly anxious or need a new toy to entice their interest. Head online today to explore our range.
