Cat Tail Flicking: What it Means

Have you ever wondered what your cat tries to tell you when they flick their tail? The tail of a feline is fascinating. Cats use their tail and body language to communicate with you, and you want to know what they say.

Cats have a unique language, using their tail to express emotion. When a cat flicks their tail back and forth, it usually indicates they are agitated. If your cat’s tail is flicking and their body language is tense and combative, leave them alone.

Your feline companion has many unique messages they want to convey, and it is a pet parent’s privilege to discover what makes your cat happy, anxious, and everything in between. This article will teach you more about cat tail flicking, tail language, and its meaning.

Cat Tail Language

Cats use their body language to communicate messages; there is no shortage of information they want to share with us! Your cat’s tail flicking expresses their emotions, and each tail position has its special meaning. The following includes the many “tails” your cat has to tell:

The Testy Tail Flick

If your cat’s tail is stiff looking and they are flicking it back and forth on the ground, it means they feel tense and testy. This flicking is often seen when you take them to the veterinary’s office, and they do not like it. Some of the other body language associated with the “testy tail flick”:

• Flat ears
• Hair raised
• Arched back
• Tense posture

Seeing any of the above body language in conjunction with a stiff, lowered tail flicking back and forth can mean your cat is agitated. Sometimes the cat’s paw is barely lifted off the ground, ready for confrontation. It might indicate that your feline is fixed to protect themselves.

The Tucked-in Tail

Seeing your cat’s tail tucked in between their legs and curled around their belly may show submission. Your cat may perform this action if you have just caught them paw-handed doing something mischievous, such as hopping onto the kitchen counter and knocking things over, and you let them know you are displeased. Your cat knows they did a no-no, and they are feeling guilty and defeated.

The Twitchy Hunting Tail

The twitchy hunting tail is when your cat’s tail is upright, relaxed, and twitching rapidly. It means they are hunting and stalking their prey, and the tail looks like it has a mind of its own. Cats displaying this tail language are so fun to watch. The following includes the body language that is often associated with this type of tail:

• Head outstretched
• Forward pointing ears
• Semi-crouched position
• Intense, unblinking stare

Along with this body language, they may also make a noise called “chattering.”  Chattering, otherwise known as “trilling,” sounds like a short, soft, high-pitched sound and is often accompanied by teeth clicking. Cats make this sound when they get a look at birds outside their window. They are practicing the “kill bite,” which is when your adorable yet ferocious little hunter prepares to bite the head off of their prey.

The Straight-Up Question Mark

Your cat has their tail straight up in the air, and the tip gently curls, resembling a question mark, showing that this is one confident, cool cat. Your cat is feeling social, friendly, and outgoing. They are sending you an invitation to interact with them. Getting out your cat’s favorite toys and playing with your furry feline may be fun. It is a good indicator if your feline’s tail appears like a question mark.

Halloween Cat Pose

This is either a funny sign of playfulness or a serious statement. Halloween cat is a posture your cat makes when feeling fearful or anxious. However, they may also strike this pose when kittens play with each other. The body posture of a Halloween cat:

• Hair raised
• Arched back
• Ears folded back
• Standing sideways

When cats make this pose, their tail is stiff and curved down. If they are afraid, they may also be hissing or growling. Assuming this posture is a means for them to make themselves appear large and threatening. They may be hopping around with delight and being a happy kittens if they are playful.

The Excited, Animated Tail

If your Feline’s tail is straight up and quivering, they are excited, animated, and ready for a good time, like playing with their favorite human. They are feeling frisky, and you may see their tail look like this when they are jumping around or behaving like they are the king or queen of the jungle. The complete length of the tail will be fluttering with expectation.

The Wagging Tail

Most people think that because dogs wag their tails to demonstrate happiness, so do cats, but this is not the case. You may see two cats wagging their tails at each other when they are about to get into a brawl. Some of the body language you may see:

• Flat ears
• Bared teeth
• Big puffed-up tails
• Leaning away from each other

Of course, there may also be some hissing involved. The two cats are irritated with each other, and the tail is communicating that. Try clapping loudly to break it up if you have two cats fighting. Sometimes a cat wagging their tail may also signify that they are experiencing pain.

The Tail Hug

When your cat wraps their tail around you or another sweet feline, it signifies love and affection. It is the equivalent of a human hug. It is incredibly adorable when your cat brushes up against your leg with their tail wrapped around it and softly meowing or purring. Cats may also “hug” tails with each other, a sign that they appreciate and enjoy each other’s company.

The Chilled-Out Tail

A cat whose tail is still and unmoving means they are feeling content, relaxed, and chill. They are usually quiet, still, or off in dreamland. Every aspect of your cat’s body language can strongly indicate their mood. It is easy to see when your kitty is in a state of serenity. Most cats who display a chilled-out tail and body posture:

• Slow blinking
• Whiskers neutral
• Arm stretched out
• Forward relaxed ears

You will also notice that when a cat is peaceful and resting, their breathing will be slow and steady. Your cat may also roll over onto their back, revealing their sense of comfort and safety with you. A chilled-out tail will be relaxed and dangling from wherever they are sitting or lying, whether on their cat tree or your bed with you.

Tail Wrapped Around Themselves

If your cat’s tail is wrapped around their body, they may feel anxious and unsure of themselves. With this tail language, your feline is making an attempt to feel more comfortable and secure. Try to make them feel safer by speaking to them in a soft voice, and if they are feeling it, give them some pets. They may need some reassurance and a little extra love.

There Are Many Reasons Why Your Cat Flicks It’s Tail

Cat tail flicking is one of the many forms of tail language your cat communicates with you. There are many other messages your kitty wants to share with you. All you should do is have a keen observation. When you recognize your cat’s body language, you deepen your relationship and connect with them. For more information, contact The Village Vets by calling one of our locations.