Cat expert says you must back off immediately if you spot hidden sign in pet's tail

cat
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


A cat expert says you must back away from your pet if you spot this hidden sign in its tail.

The animals use their tails to convey "a variety of emotion", which is why an expert is calling on pet owners to keep an eye on them to read the mood of their cat better.

One position means you should stay away from the felines – as it indicates they're probably in need of space. But others are apparently signs of confidence in cats, meaning it's fine to approach them.

According to TikTok user @basepaws, a straight up tail is a "sign that your cat is feeling confident." They added: "Cats do this when they're in familiar and comfortable environments. It's also a way to greet other humans and other cats."

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A wagging tail, usually a sign of happiness or excitement in dogs, is typically the opposite for cats. The experts claim it "often signals irritation or distress," which is a key sign cat owners should "give them space".

Other signs of interest were shown off by the cat expert, who says a "swishing tail" is one to keep an eye on also. It means "a build-up of energy or excitement". But these energies may be one to watch also.

The TikTok expert revealed: "It's a prelude to pouncing or attacking whether in play or in defence." Another defence sign is a puffed out tail which @basepaws warned was a "defensive posture indicating fear or aggression. It's meant to make the cat look bigger and more intimidating."

Members of the public have since commented on the post, revealing their cats usually fall in line with the readings given by the TikTok user. But others shared the quirks their own pets have.

One wrote: "My cat rattles her tail like a rattlesnake when she's super happy." Another wrote: "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 joked: "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."