What is what does it mean if a cat wags its tail?

A cat wagging its tail is a complex behavior that can mean different things depending on the context and the way the tail is wagging. It's not as simple as a dog wagging its tail to show happiness. Here's a breakdown:

• Frustration/Irritation: A common reason for tail wagging in cats is frustration or irritation. This is often a quick, side-to-side swishing or thumping of the tail. For example, if a cat is watching birds outside a window and can't get to them, it might start wagging its tail out of frustration. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Frustration%20in%20Cats

• Concentration/Excitement: A slower, more deliberate tail wag can sometimes indicate focus or anticipation. A cat might wag its tail like this when it's stalking prey or getting ready to play. It's a sign of heightened attention. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Cat%20Excitement

• Annoyance/Warning: A twitching or thumping tail can also be a warning sign. If a cat is being petted and starts twitching its tail, it might be telling you to stop. This is especially true if accompanied by other signs of discomfort, such as flattened ears or dilated pupils. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Cat%20Annoyance

• Happy Tail Twitch/Quivering: A slightly different movement is a tail that quivers or twitches at the tip. This can be a sign of excitement or happiness, particularly when greeting you or anticipating food. However, it can also indicate marking territory with scent. This is very different from the full tail wag usually associated with dogs. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Happy%20Cats

• General Rule: Pay attention to the rest of the cat's body language. A relaxed body posture, purring, and slow blinking are all positive signs. Tense muscles, flattened ears, hissing, or growling suggest that the tail wag is indicating a negative emotion. Consider the context of the situation, where is the cat, what is it doing, who is around etc. https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Cat%20Body%20Language