What Your Cat’s Tail Is Trying to Tell You

by Rachel Bennett

Published: May 13th, 2025

Cats might not bark, beg, or break into full-body wiggles like their canine counterparts—but don’t be fooled.

Just because they’re quiet doesn’t mean they’re not communicating. In fact, cats are constantly sending messages—you just need to know where to look.

And one of the most expressive tools in your cat’s emotional toolkit? Their tails.

That slow swish, sudden flick, or question-mark curl isn’t random—it’s body language at its finest. Your cat’s tail acts like a little emotional antenna, broadcasting signals about their mood, their focus, and whether or not you should risk petting that belly.

Whether you’re a lifelong cat parent or new to the world of feline mysteries, understanding tail talk can deepen your bond and help you avoid some unexpected scratches (or side-eye).

So, what exactly is your cat trying to say with their tail?

Let’s break it down.

what your cats tail is trying to tell you

1. Tail Held High With a Hook
2. Gently Swaying Tail
3. Flicking or Thumping Tail
4. Puffed-Up Tail
5. Tail Wrapped Around You
The Tail Truth

1. Tail Held High With a Hooked Tip

This is a feline hello! When your cat approaches with their tail straight up and the end curled like a question mark, they’re in a friendly, curious mood. This is a classic sign of a happy, social kitty.

2. Gently Swaying Tail

If your cat is lounging but their tail is swaying slowly side to side, they’re likely relaxed but alert. They’re watching the world—maybe plotting. Probably judging.

3. Flicking or Thumping Tail

Watch out—this means your cat is irritated or overstimulated. If you’re mid-petting session and the tail starts flicking rapidly? That’s a warning. Step away from the belly.

4. Puffed-Up Tail

Ever seen your cat turn into a Halloween decoration? A poofy tail usually means fear, surprise, or a defensive reaction. It’s your cat’s way of saying, “I’m big! I’m scary! (Also, please don’t touch me.)”

5. Tail Wrapped Around You (or Another Cat)

That’s not just a tail—it’s a hug. Cats will sometimes wrap their tails around people or other animals they like. It’s subtle, sweet, and deeply affectionate.

The Tail Truth

Tail movement isn’t one-size-fits-all. You need to read the whole cat—eyes, ears, posture, even their meow (or lack of one). But once you tune in, your cat’s tail becomes one of the clearest clues to what they’re really feeling.

So next time your feline roommate starts flicking, curling, or puffing that tail? You’ll know exactly what kind of mood they’re in—and whether it’s safe to keep petting them.

Rachel Bennett

I’m Rachel Bennett, an animal enthusiast living in the UK. I share tips, stories, and advice about pets and wildlife. Love connecting with fellow animal lovers and learning something new every day!

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Learn What Your Pet is Trying to Tell You With This Online Course

Your pet has something they want to tell you. The good news? There is an online course that’ll teach you to what they’re trying to say. What if I told you that you could read your cat or dog’s mind? Well, you can’t (at least, not yet), but what you can do is understand what they’re trying to say to you through their behavior and nonverbal communication. An online course from The University of Edinburgh, titled “The Truth About Cats and Dogs,” helps you walk a mile in your furry friend’s paws. Starting with utilizing scientific findings to understand your pet’s view of the world, to deciphering all the little things your pet does, this course is aimed at pet parents who want to finally find out what’s going on in their furball’s head. Related: The Basics About Dog Body Language Exploring the core of human-animal relationship, The Truth About Cats and Dogs covers every aspect of our companionship and helps you learn what is the best possible care for your pet and how to provide it. Sometimes, we make mistakes in our attitude and communication with pets, without even realizing it. Once you master the techniques of non-verbal communication with canines and felines, you won’t be wondering what it means when your cat blinks at you or your pooch scoots on their butt. Apart from learning about the hidden meaning behind your pet’s behavior, body language, facial expressions, and their many quirks, you’ll get to find out what you can do to improve the life of your four-legged best friend. The course is based on scientifically validated methods and is taught by a group of animal experts that have dedicated years to studying behavior and welfare of pets. Related: How To Understand Cat Body Language Until scientists come up with a futuristic device that will help you translate woofs and meows into words, this is the best possible alternative. This online course will teach you about the intricacies of animal behavior and communication, and provide invaluable insight into what’s needed to give your furball the life they deserve. Interested in getting to the bottom of why your dog barks at the mailman? Sign up for The Truth About Cats and Dogs course at Coursera.

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Cat Tail Injuries: What You Need To Know

A cat’s tail works as an important appendage. That’s why you need to know about cat tail injuries and how to tell if your kitty is hurt. Your cat’s tail is an extension of her spine, and it’s made up of muscles, bones, blood vessels, and nerves. In addition to using her tail to communicate feelings like annoyance, fear, and contentment, your kitty’s tail also helps her balance, so it’s important to take note of any signs that might indicate your cat’s tail has been injured. Here’s a list of some cat tail injuries and what you can do to help your kitty feel better. Remember that it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian if you realize that your pet’s tail is injured, broken, or infected. Fractures, Breaks, and Dislocation Just like the other bones in your kitty’s body, those that are in the tail can fracture or break, as well as become dislocated. These injuries could happen if your cat falls and doesn’t land correctly, if her tail is slammed by a door, or if your outdoor cat gets hit by a car (another great reason to consider keeping your kitty indoors), as a few examples. The area where a fracture occurs in the tail can have an impact on how serious this type of injury will be. For example, an injury that’s closer to the base of the cat’s tail might also involve some level of nerve damage, so that would be considered more severe. On the other hand, if a fracture occurs towards the tip of the cat’s tail, it might be able to heal without any medical intervention. If you think that your cat’s tail is fractured, broken, crushed, or dislocated, it’s best to take your pet to the vet ASAP. Sometimes, symptoms, such as a drooping tail, will be quite obvious, but there’s also the potential that you might not know anything is wrong until an x-ray is taken to assess the damage. A thorough exam will be necessary, and your vet will be able to determine what treatment is best. Abrasions, Lacerations, and Bite Wounds An abrasion could develop when your cat’s tail scrapes against a rough surface or when the tail is caught under something. If the abrasion is minor, such as a small cut or scratch, your vet may recommend that you monitor it at home. He or she might also tell you to gently clean the tail using hydrogen peroxide or mild soap and warm water. Other treatments might include applying a prescribed antibiotic ointment and a bandage, but your vet will know what’s best. On the other hand, if there’s a lot of swelling or bleeding, or if you notice that the skin changes color, it’s time for your cat to visit the vet. Your pet will also need to see the vet if there are symptoms of muscle damage, skin damage, or infection. A laceration can be so deep that it exposes the muscle and/or bone underneath the skin. 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Why Dogs Eat Poop, According to a Canine Behavior Expert

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The focus of palliative care is the effective management of symptoms to improve your pet’s comfort and overall quality of life at any stage of their illness.Palliative care aims to improve your pet’s well-being regardless of their prognosis. Think of it as providing ongoing supportive care throughout a challenging illness, helping to manage discomfort and improve their daily life. After all, treatment isn’t always a comfortable or easy process.Key Differences and OverlapThe main difference between hospice and palliative care lies in the timing relative to their treatment journey. Palliative care can start earlier, while hospice is specifically for the end-of-life stage when treatment is no longer a reasonable option. However, both approaches share a similar fundamental goal – prioritizing comfort, maximizing quality of life, and providing emotional support for the pet and their family as they navigate this chapter.When Might Hospice or Palliative Care Be the Right Choice?If your pet is currently dealing with medical challenges, it can be an emotional time. When it comes to deciding if hospice or palliative care might be the right path, there is no universal “right” moment. Instead, you will need to take some time to carefully (and honestly) assess your pet’s overall well-being and quality of life.With palliative care being an option that doesn’t require you to stop treatment, there is no reason not to prioritize their comfort throughout the process.Pay close attention to subtle shifts in their physical and mental behavior. Certain indicators can signal that it may be time to have a heartfelt conversation with your veterinarian about your supportive care options.Changes to Watch Out ForTo help you on this journey, here are a few specific changes you might notice in your pet that could suggest it’s time to consider hospice or palliative care:Changes in Eating and Drinking: Keep an eye out for a loss of appetite, increasing difficulty eating or drinking, or noticeable and unexplained weight loss.Changes in Mobility and Activity: You might notice your pet struggling to stand or walk, showing a reluctance to move, experiencing increased weakness, or becoming unsteady on their feet and stumbling.Changes in Behavior and Interaction: Look for signs that your pet may be withdrawing from their usual family life, showing a decreased interest in their favorite activities, hiding more often, experiencing significant changes in their sleep patterns, or showing a reduced desire to interact with you and your other household members.Uncontrolled Pain or Discomfort: Despite receiving pain medication, your pet may still show obvious signs of discomfort, such as whimpering, excessive panting, restlessness, or a reluctance to be touched in certain areas.Loss of Bladder or Bowel Control: If your pet is experiencing incontinence that is becoming increasingly difficult to manage and is negatively impacting their quality of life, this is an important consideration.Difficulty Breathing: Noticeable changes in their breathing, such as persistent coughing, labored breathing, or an increased effort required to breathe “normally,” can signal declining health.Lack of Response to Treatment: When ongoing medical interventions no longer effectively slow the progression of your pet’s illness and improve their quality of life, it may be time to consider a different approach focused on comfort.Noticing one or two of these signs doesn’t automatically mean it’s time for hospice or palliative care. The decision to take this step isn’t “black and white.” Instead, these signs of decreasing quality of life should lead to an open and honest conversation with your veterinarian. They can provide valuable insights into your pet’s prognosis and help you assess the situation with realistic expectations. This discussion will help you make the most loving and informed decision for your best friend.

What Are Signs of Illness in Pet Turtles?

Turtles are unique and fascinating pets, valued for their calm demeanor and long lifespans. However, one challenge that turtle owners face is detecting illness early. In the wild, turtles instinctively hide signs of weakness to avoid predators. As a result, pet turtles often show only subtle symptoms when they are unwell.Becoming familiar with your turtle’s normal behavior, appetite, and appearance is essential. Early identification of illness greatly improves the chances of successful treatment, so here are the key signs to watch for.Changes in AppetiteA sudden loss of appetite is often one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of illness. Healthy turtles typically eat with enthusiasm, especially when offered favored foods.If a turtle begins refusing meals, particularly favorite treats, it should be taken seriously. While minor fluctuations in appetite can occur due to changes in temperature or environment, persistent refusal to eat may signal infections, digestive issues, or stress.

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What are the Benefits of Silver Vine for Cats?

As loving cat parents, we understand that a happy cat is a cat whose natural instincts are nurtured and whose days are filled with purpose and play. While many of us are familiar with the often hilarious effects of catnip, a staple in many cat households, there’s another natural option to add a little “spice” to your cat’s day: silvervine. This plant offers a unique experience for cats. It may even work for cats who are indifferent to catnip (yes, that does happen).In this post, I will share precisely what silvervine is, why it works so effectively to entertain our cats, and the many benefits it offers for both their physical and mental well-being. While I’m not saying you need to replace your cat’s go-to favorites (we still have catnip toys in our house), this could be the perfect option to add something new and exciting to their toy lineup!What Exactly is Silvervine?To truly appreciate the benefits of silvervine for your cat, it helps to understand what it is and what your cat experiences. Scientifically known as Actinidia polygama, silvervine actually belongs to the Kiwi family! The plant is indigenous to the rugged, mountainous regions of East Asia, where it thrives in the dense forests of Japan, China, Korea, and even parts of Siberia. It grows as a woody vine, often climbing and intertwining with other vegetation throughout its natural habitat.The silvervine plant features heart-shaped leaves and produces small, kiwi-like fruits that are called “silvervine fruits” or “matatabi fruits.” The plant has a long history of use in human folk remedies among certain Asian cultures. In some instances, the fruit is even consumed (although it’s not as common as the kiwi).When processing it for our cats to enjoy, there are four common forms:Dried Sticks: Resembling a small twig, this is arguably the most popular form. It’s perfect for chewing and batting around. Example: WoLover Silvervine Sticks for CatsPowder: Finely ground, this can be sprinkled on toys, scratching posts, or even a small amount on their food. Example: Raw Paws Silvervine PowderSprays: An extract is a great choice for refreshing existing toys or enticing your cat to show interest in new items, such as carriers or beds. Example: JAYU PET 100% Natural Silvervine Spray for CatsLeaves: Dried leaves or fruits are sometimes used in sachets or as loose playthings on their own. Example: Meowy Janes Whole Dried Silvervine Gall FruitWhile it’s similar to catnip in many ways, there's a notable chemical difference that allows it to appeal to an even larger number of cats.Why Cats Love SilvervineUnderstanding why silvervine holds such a powerful allure for our cats will require basic knowledge of feline neurobiology. Its spell is all thanks to specific chemical compounds within the plant and the response they trigger.The Active Compounds Catnip’s magic lies primarily in a compound called nepetalactone. Silvervine, however, involves a more complex cocktail of substances that trigger a response from our cats. The most significant and potent active compound in the plant is nepetalactol. But it also contains other compounds that are intriguing to your cat, like actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide.How it WorksWhen a cat inhales or ingests silvervine, these compounds (particularly nepetalactol) interact with your cat’s brain. This interaction triggers a natural release of endorphins, aka the body’s “feel-good” chemicals. This flood of endorphins is what leads to feelings of pleasure or euphoria. This is what causes them to act like they are “high” after being exposed to it.The most interesting aspect of this reaction is that silvervine appears to engage different receptors in the brain than catnip. For this reason, it may impact cats who show no response to catnip. Studies show that only approximately two-thirds of adult cats actively respond to catnip. Meanwhile, approximately 80% of cats react to silvervine. Your cat may be genetically predisposed to responding to one but not the other, or to both.Typical Cat Reactions to SilvervineWhen a cat encounters silvervine, their reactions can be pretty varied. For some, it will trigger feelings of excitement and playfulness. For others, it can help them chill and relax. But generally, most reactions fall into a predictable set of behaviors:Affection: Many cats will begin by rubbing their face and body against the silvervine, soon followed by enthusiastic rolling.Oral Stimulation: Licking and drooling are both common sensory responses to the plant.Playful Energy: A burst of playful energy often follows, including swatting, pouncing, kicking with hind legs, and sometimes an increase in vocalizations, such as chirps, trills, or purrs.Relaxation and Bliss: After the initial burst of activity, some cats enter a calm, relaxed, almost dream-like state. Eventually, they will return to normal energy levels once again.Each of these responses is entirely normal and a sign that your cat is enjoying the silvervine experience.The Benefits of Silvervine for Your Cat’s Well-Being Most cat parents who are interested in silvervine are focused on the fun experience for their cat, but it actually offers a list of benefits that contribute significantly to their health and well-being. From mental enrichment to physical activity, incorporating silvervine into your cat’s daily routine can boost their quality of life. Mental Enrichment and StimulationOne of the most significant benefits of introducing silvervine to your cat is its ability to provide much-needed mental enrichment and stimulation, helping you to keep them happy and entertained throughout the day (even when you’re at work). Cats, even those living indoors, have natural predatory instincts and a sharp intelligence that need to be worked and challenged. Imagine being stuck indoors 24/7, surrounded by the same things day in and day out, with nothing to do to entertain yourself. Silvervine, with its unique scent and effects, creates an exciting experience that can break up their day, introducing a fun and unpredictable element of play. The focused play it encourages promotes mental engagement, allowing your cat to flex their problem-solving skills and stay sharp. If you have a sensitive or anxious cat, silvervine is also known to have a euphoric and calming effect. Whether they are nervous about an upcoming vet visit, stressed about the move to a new home, or worried about the introduction of a new pet into their household, silvervine can help soothe agitated nerves and promote a more relaxed state of mind.

5 Tips for Looking After Somebody Else's Dog

Taking care of someone else’s dog can be a lot of fun, but it also comes with responsibilities. Every dog has its own personality and habits, so even if you’re experienced with your own pet, another dog may have different needs. Whether you’re dog-sitting for a friend, family member, or colleague, these tips will help make the experience safe, enjoyable, and stress-free for both you and the dog.

How Do I Set Up a Proper Terrarium?

Setting up a terrarium is one of the first and most important steps in providing a safe, healthy home for your exotic pet. Whether you're housing a reptile, amphibian, or insect - or just want to grow a small indoor ecosystem - getting the basics right will make all the difference.Start with the Right Type of TerrariumFirst, decide what kind of environment you're building. Terrariums come in two main types:Closed terrariums hold in moisture and work well for humidity-loving plants like mosses and ferns.Open terrariums allow airflow and are better for dry-climate plants or animals that need ventilation.If your terrarium will house an animal, factor that in early. A setup for plants alone is very different from one meant for reptiles or amphibians. Each species has specific space, light, and temperature needs.Choose a Suitable EnclosurePlant terrariums can be as simple as a glass jar or a repurposed fish tank. For pets, especially reptiles and amphibians, you’ll need a secure, ventilated tank, ideally one made of glass or sturdy plastic. Vertical tanks are best for climbers like chameleons and tree frogs.

Grab a Bell Pepper and Create a Healthy Treat for Your Dog

Looking for a fun, healthy treat for your furry friend? Bell peppers aren’t just colorful and delicious, they’re also packed with vitamins and antioxidants that are safe for dogs in moderation. Stuffing a bell pepper is a creative way to turn this nutritious veggie into a playful, tasty snack that your dog will enjoy. Here’s how to do it.

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