WHAT A CAT’S TAIL MEANS

(From the Hill Pet Food company)
Your cat’s tail can tell you about what’s going on inside her head. Here’s what your cat is thinking, by tail:
– Position: high. When your cat holds her tail high in the air as she moves about her territory, she’s expressing confidence and contentment. A tail that sticks straight up signals happiness and a willingness to be friendly. And watch the tip of an erect tail. A little twitch can mean a particularly happy moment.
– Curved like a question mark. This tail position often signals a playful mood and a cat that’s ready to share some fun with you.
– Position: low. Watch out. A tail positioned straight down can signal aggression. Although Persian cats tend to carry their tails low for no particular reason. (* They are jerks.)
– Tucked away. A tail curved beneath the body signals fear or submission. Something is making your cat nervous.
– Puffed up. A tail resembling a pipe cleaner reflects a severely agitated and frightened cat trying to look bigger to ward off danger.
– Whipping tail. A tail that slaps back and forth rapidly indicates both fear and aggression. Consider it a warning to stay away.
– Swishing tail. A tail that sways slowly from side to side usually means your cat is focused on an object. You might see this tail position right before your cat pounces on a bird.
– Wrapped around another cat. A tail wrapped around another cat is like you putting your arm around another person. It conveys friendship.
* A tail shaped like a question mark means your cat is wondering why you’re taking notes about its tail.
* Is there a tail motion that tells you the cat is about to puke on your carpet?
* A puffed up tail not only looks like a pipe cleaner, but can actually be used as a pipe cleaner.
* Also, by yanking hard on a cat’s tail, you can find out if it still has its claws.