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

Here's what a tail wag from a cat can mean:

A cat's tail wag isn't as straightforward as a dog's. It's less about universal happiness and more about nuanced communication:

• Irritation or Frustration: A common reason for a cat to wag its tail is irritation. This is often a rapid, back-and-forth swishing or thumping of the tail. This can indicate that the cat is feeling annoyed, overwhelmed, or doesn't want to be touched at that moment. Irritation
• Excitement or Anticipation: A gentle, slow wag can sometimes indicate excitement or anticipation, especially when focused on a toy or food. Excitement
• Concentration or Focus: A slight twitch or flick of the tail might indicate concentration, particularly when hunting or observing something intently. Focus
• Agitation or Anger: A puffed-up tail combined with wagging usually indicates extreme fear, aggression, or defensiveness. This is a sign to give the cat space. Anger
• Playfulness: Sometimes, a slight twitch or wagging while the cat is crouched or focused could be a sign of playfulness especially when combined with other body languages. Playfulness

Important Considerations:

• Context is Key: The surrounding situation, the cat's body posture, and vocalizations all play a role in interpreting tail wags.
• Individual Variation: Every cat is different! Pay attention to your own cat's baseline behavior and tail movements to understand their individual communication style.