A cat expert has issued a warning to pet owners, advising them to back off if they notice a particular hidden sign in their cat’s tail.
Cats use their tails to express “a variety of emotion” – and understanding these signals can help owners better gauge their pet’s mood.
One specific tail position may suggest that the feline needs space and should not be approached. However, other tail movements can indicate confidence, signalling that it’s safe to come closer.
TikTok user @basepaws explained that a straight up tail is a “sign that your cat is feeling confident.”
They elaborated: “Cats do this when they’re in familiar and comfortable environments. It’s also a way to greet other humans and other cats.”
In contrast, a wagging tail, which often denotes happiness or excitement in dogs, usually means the opposite in cats. The experts say it “often signals irritation or distress,” and is a clear indication that owners should “give them space”
The cat specialist on TikTok also highlighted a “swishing tail” as an important sign to watch for, indicating “a build-up of energy or excitement”. But cautioned that such energies could be a precursor to pouncing or attacking, either in play or defence.
Additionally, a puffed out tail was mentioned by @basepaws as a “defensive posture indicating fear or aggression. It’s meant to make the cat look bigger and more intimidating.”
Following the viral post, members of the public chimed in with their experiences, aligning with the interpretations provided by the TikTok user. However, some took to sharing their pets’ unique habits.
One individual commented: “My cat rattles her tail like a rattlesnake when she’s super happy.”
Another added: “My 15yo cat wags or swishes her tail when she’s content or playful, but she never pounces. Mostly she just lays there swishing away.”
A third humorously remarked: “OR they use their tails to jump up on the dinner table and draggggg it across your meal when you get up to get a drink.”