A relaxed cat may have a loose body posture and calmly positioned ears.

A frightened cat may crouch, flatten its ears, hide, or attempt to escape.

An excited or highly stimulated cat may display rapid tail movements or changes in posture.

Learning these signals can help owners understand when a cat wants interaction and when it wants space.

What Does a Cat’s Tail Mean?

The tail can provide useful information, but it should never be interpreted in isolation.

A relaxed tail generally suggests a relaxed emotional state.

A rapidly moving tail can indicate excitement, stimulation, frustration, or agitation depending on the situation.

A puffed-up tail may occur when a cat feels threatened or startled.