Why do cats wag their tails? Are they happy or annoyed?
Answers:
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.
i dont like cats so i wouldnt know
cats are angry when they wag their tails.
usually when they are not happy.
my cat wags his tail when he's upset or he's getting ready to pounce on something
annoyed believe me..ha ha
If the tip of a cat's tail just kind of twitches, he's annoyed. If it lashes, he's angry. If it just kind of waves, he's content or happy.
annoyed
Cats wag their tails when they are annoyed or angry or unhappy about something. If their ears go back they are fightened.
My cat used to really thump his tail when he was not happy, the quicker and louder it is the more unhappy or angry they are
defiantly annoyed.
I'm saying they are happy.
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.
I always thought it was to help them judge their balance for their next move.
because they're happy!
my cat wags his tail when hes getting slightly annoyed with me, his next move is to bite me!
my cat wags his tail when he is annoyed and so do all the other cats in the world lol
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?
If they are annoyed their ears usually go back as well.
they are usually upset or angry when cats wag thier tails
When my cat does this it means he wants to be left alone, or wanting cat milk!!
Usually it's the first time that they are annoyed. Happens every time I get the flea comb out and spend too much time in sensitive spots - the next action is a quick nip on the hand. When the tail begins to flick, I have learnt to stop combing!
When your cat wags their tail i would get out their way as they are more than likely going to pounce on you and bite! At least when a dog wags it's tail you know what to expect!
annoyed
Cats wag their tails when they are cross so mind your cat doesn't scratch you
Annoyed if they wag, exact opposite of dogs. So beware the wagging cat.
both u have 2 learn 2 read what ur cat is feeling at the time
They usually wag their tail to show annoyance. Mine also used to do that when they were about to catch something.
mine does it when hes annoyed and about to pounce on something.or me !!
Both I believe. My cat wags his tail when he is eating and when you are talking to him, so that means he is happy and content. He also wags his tail when he is mad, the faster he wags the madder he is
annoyed
very annoyed & want to be left alone
annoyed - it like us humans we tap our foot or hand.
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