07/09/2024
-- Dear Dr Tay, I am curious that my cat wags his tail in a variety of manner. What do they mean?
-- Decoding “tail language” is an art all by itself. Cats wagging their tails express various nuances, providing insights into their emotions and intent. Unlike dogs, for whom tail wagging predominantly indicates happiness, cats use their tails to express a broader spectrum of emotions.
(a) The positive: A gently swaying tail or a slightly raised tail with a relaxed curve indicates a happy and content cat. Often accompanied by purring and an expression of affection. In a friendly setting, a "fluffy" tail also denote pleasure and excitement, and this is not to be confused with a “puffed-up” tail representing fear.
(b) The negative: Conversely, a thumping tail when lying down, signifies annoyance. Similarly, a tail swept low to the ground or “puffed-up” like a bottle brush, signifies fear or defensive aggression. The cat is not in a good mood and best to avoid stressing it further.
(c) The ambiguous: Some tail movements fall into a grey area. For instance, a twitching tail tip can indicate intense focus, often when a cat is playing; but can also signal slight irritation. Observing other body language cues, such as ear position, whisker movement, and vocalizations, is crucial for accurate interpretation.
(d) The health: Sometimes, changes in tail movement can indicate health issues; such as when a tail suddenly cannot be lifted or is painful when touched. Persistent, unexplained changes in tail movement patterns warrant a consultation.
-- brought to you by Dr Tay CN, Vet on the Go
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