[Cat Language Dictionary] Actions speak louder than words! A real psychological test for your cat decoded through 'tail movements'

Good morning!

I'm makoto@kushiro, living a lively daily life in Kushiro with my three cats (Taiga, Oreo, and Cocoa).

We've entered the middle of June, and here in Kushiro, we're finally seeing more pleasant days where we can go without jackets during the day. Enticed by the scent of early summer carried on the breeze, the battle for the best window-side seats among the cats unfolds every day.

I've talked about cat health and psychology on countless themes before, but this time I'm focusing on the cat's 'ultimate communication tool.' The theme is 'Cat psychology understood through tail movements.'

I've written several articles about tails before, but this time, as a 'Complete Edition: Cat Tail Dictionary,' I will dissect the psychology behind each movement in even greater detail.

Even without meowing, their tails speak surprisingly eloquently about their 'current mood.' Let's observe your cat's tail closely and decode their true feelings!

1. Signs of [Good Mood/Relaxation]

① Approaching with the tail held straight up

• Psychology: 'I love you!', 'Pay attention to me!', 'Give me food!'

• Explanation: This is a remnant of when kittens fawn over their mother, and it is the ultimate sign of affection and demand. This is the basic style Cocoa, my spoiled cat, uses when she trots over to my feet. When the tip is slightly bent like a 'question mark (?),' it's proof that they are in a good mood.

② Swinging it slowly and broadly from side to side

• Psychology: 'Hmm, hmm...', 'I'm just relaxing, meow'

• Explanation: This movement occurs when they are relaxed or observing something and thinking. It's a tail movement that exudes adult composure, often seen when my senior cat, Taiga, sits watching birds fly outside the window.

③ Wrapping the tail around the body while sitting

• Psychology: 'I'm calm right now', 'It might be a little chilly'

• Explanation: This is a state where they have no wariness and are resting in a relaxed manner. They are securing their personal space and entering 'sleep mode.'

2. Signs of [Irritation/Dissatisfaction]

① Thumping it violently against the floor: Bam! Bam!

• Psychology: 'Stop it already!', 'I'm annoyed!'

• Explanation: Dogs wag their tails when they are happy, but when a cat wags its tail violently, it is the exact opposite. If this movement occurs while you are petting them, it is a sign that you have reached their limit and they are thinking, 'You're persistent!' If you miss this sign when playing with the mischievous Oreo, you might get bitten.

(2) Flicking it back and forth in short, quick motions

• Psychology: "What's that?" "I'm feeling restless..."

• Explanation: This is a sign that they have spotted prey and are excited, or are feeling a bit conflicted (e.g., they want to play but are sleepy). It is also a warm-up before pouncing on prey.

3. Signs of [Fear/Surprise]

(1) Fluffing up thick like a raccoon's tail

• Psychology: "I'm startled!" "Go away!"

• Explanation: This is an instinctive reaction when they feel extreme fear or surprise, such as from a sudden loud noise or encountering an unfamiliar animal (like a stray cat outside). They are trying to make themselves look as big as possible to intimidate the other party.

(2) Tucking the tail tightly between their legs to hide it

• Psychology: "I'm scared..." "I surrender..."

• Explanation: This is a sign that they are feeling the utmost fear, making themselves look small to show submission and indicate that they have no hostile intent. This is often seen when they are frozen stiff on a veterinary examination table.

4. [Bonus] The "tail tip twitch" while sleeping

Have you ever called your cat's name, and while their eyes remained closed, they just gave the tip of their tail a little "twitch, twitch"?

• Psychology: "I hear you, but it's too much trouble to get up, meow."

• Explanation: This is an "acknowledgment sign" in place of a verbal response. Please rest assured that they are not ignoring you; they heard your voice just fine.

Summary: A tail cannot lie

Cats are expressive, but more than that, their "tails" cannot lie.

Even if we don't speak the same language, by looking at Taiga's slow swaying, Oreo's busy flicking, and Cocoa's upright tail, I can tell exactly how they are feeling.

When you communicate with your beloved cat, please try paying attention not just to their "face" but also to their "backside (tail)." You might make some new discoveries you hadn't noticed before!