You can get a pretty good idea of how your cat is feeling by watching its posture, sounds, and behaviour. When cats are happy and relaxed, they usually have a loose, comfy posture and might slow-blink their eyes at you. On the flip side, a puffed-up body and ears pinned back usually mean they’re scared or angry. If your cat’s mood or routine changes for a while—like hiding more or eating less—it could be a sign they’re not feeling well.

Signs of a Happy Cat

A happy cat shows its content through relaxed and loving behaviour.

• Body: A happy cat often lounges in a relaxed, loaf-like pose with smooth fur. Rolling onto their back usually means they trust you, though it’s not always an invitation for belly rubs.
• Eyes: Their eyes look soft and almond-shaped, often half-closed. Slow blinking is their way of showing affection and trust.
• Ears: Ears stand up straight and face forward, showing they’re calm and paying attention.
• Tail: An upright tail with a little curl at the tip means they’re happy and confident. A quivering tail can show excitement.
• Vocalisations: Happy cats often purr, though purring can also happen if they’re anxious or in pain. They might greet you with high-pitched meows, chirps, or trills.
• Affectionate Behaviour: Look for things like kneading their paws (“making biscuits”), rubbing their cheeks or head against you, or even drooling while purring—these are all signs they’re feeling good.

Signs of an Angry or Unhappy Cat

When upset, cats often try to look bigger and more intimidating.

• Body: An angry or scared cat might arch its back with fur standing on end (the classic “Halloween cat” look) or crouch low to the ground.
• Eyes: Pupils may be wide and dilated, with a fixed stare at whatever’s bothering them.
• Ears: Ears flatten against the head and turn to the side, sometimes called “aeroplane ears.”
• Tail: The tail might be low and tucked between the legs or thrashing and twitching quickly.
• Vocalisations: Hissing, growling, spitting, or loud yowling are clear signs they’re upset or angry.
• Defensive Behaviour: They might swat, swipe, or bite if they feel threatened.

Signs of an Anxious or Stressed Cat

Stressed cats might show subtle signs or hide away.

• Body: A tense, low-to-the-ground stance or hiding spots can mean anxiety.
• Behavioural Changes: Stress might cause too much grooming, not enough grooming, or stop grooming altogether.
• Vocalisation Changes: A usually quiet cat that suddenly meows a lot might be stressed.
• Toileting Changes: Going outside the litter box is a big red flag for stress or illness.

How to Tell if Your Cat is Sick

Cats are great at hiding pain or illness, so it’s important to watch for lasting changes in how they act or look.

• Appearance: A hunched posture, messy fur, or a visible third eyelid can mean they’re in pain or sick.
• Energy and Activity: Less activity or seeming really tired might be a sign of health issues.
• Eating and Drinking: Eating less or suddenly drinking a lot more water can be worrying.
• Vocalisations: Sometimes purring, meowing, or yowling can mean pain instead of happiness.
• Changes in Behaviour: More irritability, aggression, or sudden changes in how they interact with you might mean something’s wrong.

Important Considerations

• Context is Key: Always think about the situation. For example, a cat that’s purring but tense and hiding might actually be stressed, not happy.
• Seek Veterinary Advice: If you notice big or ongoing changes in your cat’s behaviour, mood, or routine, it’s a good idea to check with your vet to rule out any health problems.

Cat aggression can arise from a variety of factors, including territorial disputes, fear, playfulness, redirected aggression, or underlying medical issues. Understanding the cause of the aggression is essential for addressing the behaviour effectively. If a cat suddenly becomes aggressive, it is advisable to schedule a veterinary check-up to rule out any medical reasons.. 

When a cat rubs against your legs, it signifies affection, serves as a form of communication, and functions as a method of scent marking. This behaviour, known as "bunting," originates from instinctual feline social interactions and indicates a positive bond.
Sign of Affection
Greeting: Your cat is expressing happiness upon seeing you and offering a friendly salutation, commonly observed after your absence.
Trust and Comfort: By rubbing against you, your cat demonstrates trust and comfort in your presence, symbolising acceptance and inclusion within its "inner circle."
Scent Marking
Depositing Scent: Cats possess scent glands located on their cheeks, chin, forehead, and the base of their tail. When they rub against you, they transfer their unique pheromones onto your body.
Territorial Claim: Marking you with its scent signifies that your cat considers you part of its territory. This is not a possessive act but rather an affectionate indication of a bonded relationship.
Refreshing the Scent: Since pheromones diminish over time, your cat will periodically re-mark you to maintain a familiar "group scent."
Requesting Attention
Gaining Attention: Your cat may have learned that rubbing against you effectively captures your attention, potentially signalling a request for food, petting, or playtime.
Communication: Cats may also rub to indicate an issue, such as an empty food bowl, the need for fresh water, or a soiled litter box. Observing the context of the behaviour helps clarify your cat’s needs.
Recommended Response
Respond Positively: As this behaviour generally reflects a positive sentiment, reciprocate by petting, speaking to, or engaging in play with your cat to strengthen your bond.
Assess Context: Monitor accompanying behaviours, such as meowing or purring, to better understand your cat’s intentions. For example, rubbing combined with purring often signals contentment, whereas rubbing near the food area may indicate hunger.
Consider Veterinary Evaluation: Although uncommon, excessive or aggressive rubbing can suggest medical concerns such as allergies, ear infections, or fleas. If this behaviour is new or accompanied by other symptoms, consulting a veterinarian is advisable.

A cat’s quivering or vibrating tail can indicate excitement, anticipation, or territorial marking, depending on the context and accompanying body language. This behaviour serves as a form of communication that can be better understood by observing additional cues.
Signs of Happiness and Excitement
When a cat’s tail quivers positively, it is typically held upright in a straight position. Common scenarios include:

• Greeting you: An upright, quivering tail as your cat approaches signifies pleasure at your presence.
• Anticipating food or treats: Many cats vibrate their tails in anticipation when expecting to be fed.
• During playtime: A quivering tail may indicate excitement and a playful mood.

Signs of Territorial Marking (Spraying)
If the tail quiver occurs while the cat is backing up against a vertical surface, it may indicate scent-marking behaviour. This is more common in unneutered cats but can also occur in neutered ones. Contributing factors include:

• Stress or anxiety, such as from fireworks or the introduction of a new pet.
• Territorial disputes with other cats.
• Underlying urinary issues, which may cause the cat to spray outside the litter box.

Distinguishing Between the Behaviours
Context is essential for interpreting the meaning of a quivering tail.

When to Consult a Veterinarian
While tail quivering is generally normal, consult a veterinarian if you observe additional signs of illness or unusual behaviour. Uncontrolled tremors affecting the entire body, for example, may indicate an underlying medical condition requiring professional evaluation.

A cat swishing its tail can convey various emotions, including focus, irritation, or playfulness. Unlike dogs, a swishing tail in cats does not inherently indicate happiness. To accurately interpret your cat's mood, observe the speed and intensity of the tail movement in conjunction with other body language signals.

Common reasons for a swishing tail

Focus and hunting
A slow, deliberate tail swish signifies intense concentration, often observed when a cat is in "hunting mode."
Indicators: This behaviour may occur when your cat is watching a bird through a window or preparing to pounce on a toy.
Additional cues: Dilated pupils and a crouched posture typically accompany this state.

Irritation or annoyance
A rapid, forceful swish or thump of the tail indicates agitation and a desire to be left alone.
Indicators: If your cat’s tail begins thrashing while being petted, it is a clear signal to cease interaction.
Additional cues: Flattened ears, hissing, or a sudden swat may follow if the warning is ignored.

Playfulness
During playful "predatory" behaviour, a cat may swiftly swish its tail from side to side.
Indicators: This often occurs during play with toys such as feather wands.
Additional cues: The movement is accompanied by a focused, excited demeanour and does not precede aggression, unlike an agitated swish.

Tail swishing while relaxing or sleeping
Occasionally, a cat will gently swish its tail even when calm or resting.
Overstimulation: A gentle tail swish while on your lap may indicate enjoyment of affection but also rising overstimulation; it is advisable to stop petting to prevent a potential nip.
Dreaming: A subtle twitch or swish of the tail during sleep often signifies that your cat is dreaming.

Deciphering your cat’s communication
To accurately interpret your cat’s tail language, always consider the context alongside other body language signals. Over time, you will become attuned to the unique nuances of your cat’s communication style.

A cat thumping its tail is a prominent indicator of irritation, agitation, or overstimulation, serving as a clear warning to maintain distance. Unlike a dog's wagging tail, a cat’s tail thumping generally does not convey happiness. This behaviour functions as a form of communication, signalling the cat’s desire for space. Interpretation of a thumping tail The significance of a thumping tail may vary slightly depending on the context and the intensity of the movement, but it is predominantly a negative signal.

• Annoyance or irritation: If your cat is resting and begins thumping its tail, it may be experiencing overstimulation or irritation caused by something in its environment.
• Warning to stop: When a cat thumps its tail during petting, it is a clear warning. Ignoring this signal may result in a bite or a swat.
• Intense focus or frustration: A cat fixated on something beyond its reach, such as a bird outside, may thump its tail out of excitement and frustration, reflecting pent-up energy without an outlet.
• Conflict: In households with multiple pets, a thumping tail can indicate tension or conflict with another animal.

How to respond to a thumping tail

• Give them space: If you observe your cat thumping its tail during petting, cease the interaction immediately and allow the cat to approach you on its own terms later.
• Observe other body language: To fully understand your cat’s mood, look for additional signs of agitation such as flattened ears, dilated pupils, or a tense posture. For example, a slight twitch of the tail tip may indicate curiosity, whereas a vigorous thump is a serious warning.
• Provide an outlet: If the thumping results from excitement, such as watching prey, redirect this energy through play using interactive toys.

When to consult a veterinarian. While tail thumping is often behavioural, it can occasionally indicate physical discomfort. If this behaviour is accompanied by symptoms such as changes in appetite, lethargy, or other unusual behaviours, it is advisable to seek veterinary advice.

A twitching cat tail can convey a range of emotions, from mild irritation to excitement, depending on the speed and context of the movement. A gently quivering tail typically indicates positive feelings, whereas rapid, erratic movements often serve as a warning to maintain distance.
Positive or Neutral Emotions
Excitement: When a cat is particularly joyful or excited, such as upon your return home, the tip of a tail held high may quiver or vibrate. This behaviour is a friendly greeting and is considered a significant compliment from your cat.
Focus: A subtle, rapid twitching at the tail’s end can signify intense concentration, for example, when observing a bird through a window.
Dreaming: Similar to humans, cats may twitch during sleep as part of the dreaming process. A twitching tail in a sleeping cat indicates they feel secure enough to rest peacefully.
Scent-marking: When a cat holds its tail straight up and quivers while backing against a vertical surface, it may be scent-marking. This territorial behaviour, especially in spayed or neutered cats, often represents a “phantom” marking without urine spraying.
Negative or Warning Signals
Irritation or Annoyance: A slow, back-and-forth swishing or twitching motion signals that your cat is annoyed or frustrated. If you are petting them, this is a clear indication to stop to avoid a potential bite or swat.
Anger or Aggression: Increasingly aggressive or rapid tail movements—particularly whipping or thumping against the ground—indicate heightened agitation. This is a definitive sign to give your cat space.
Anxiety or Fear: A frightened or nervous cat may flick or twitch its tail while crouching low with ears flattened. This behaviour often responds to perceived threats such as loud noises or unfamiliar individuals.
Medical Conditions
While most tail twitching is behavioural, certain medical issues can cause involuntary spasms.
Pain: If a cat is lying down with a twitching or waving tail, it may indicate discomfort or illness. This is usually accompanied by other behavioural changes, such as hiding or altered appetite.
Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS): Also known as “twitchy cat syndrome,” FHS is a rare neurological disorder characterised by skin rippling or muscle spasms along the back. Additional symptoms include sensitivity to touch, tail chasing, and excessive vocalisation.
Seizures: Seizure disorders, such as epilepsy, can cause uncontrolled twitching or jerking movements, including the tail. These episodes are often accompanied by signs like falling, drooling, or loss of consciousness.
Understanding Your Cat
To accurately interpret your cat’s tail twitching, observe the behaviour within its context alongside other body language cues, such as ear position and vocalisations. If the twitching is unusual, persistent, or accompanied by signs of illness or aggression, consulting a veterinarian is strongly recommended.

A cat wrapping its tail around its body can signify contentment, a desire for solitude, or, in some instances, defensiveness or anxiety. To accurately interpret this behaviour, it is essential to consider additional body language cues and the context of the situation.
Contentment and Relaxation: When relaxed, a cat often lies or sits with its tail curled snugly around its body, forming a compact, cosy ball. This posture provides comfort and warmth.
A "Do Not Disturb" Signal: This position may also indicate that the cat feels comfortable but prefers to be left undisturbed for a period.
Preference for Comfort: In a warm and secure environment, some cats adopt this posture simply because it is comfortable.
Anxiety or Fear: In certain circumstances, a tightly wrapped tail combined with a crouched posture can be defensive.
Signs of Nervousness: Wide eyes, flattened ears, or other stress indicators suggest the cat may feel threatened or uncertain.
Need for Space: When confronted with a perceived threat, such as an unfamiliar animal, a cat may assume this position to signal its desire for solitude.
Physical Well-being:
Conserving Warmth: Curling into a ball with the tail wrapped around the body is an effective way for a cat to retain body heat, especially in cold conditions.
Protecting Vital Organs: This posture also shields the cat’s vulnerable abdomen and vital organs, reflecting an instinctual survival mechanism that persists even in domesticated cats.
Interpreting the Situation: Observe these additional signs to better understand your cat’s message:

• Happy and Content: A cat that is purring, with half-closed eyes and a calm demeanour, is likely feeling secure and satisfied.
• Stressed or Unwell: If the cat maintains this position with a tense body, flattened ears, and dilated pupils, it may be experiencing fear, pain, or illness. Frequent or unusual occurrences of this behaviour warrant a veterinary consultation.

A puffed-up, or "bottle-brush," tail is a cat's instinctive reaction to intense emotions, designed to make them appear larger and more intimidating. This phenomenon, known as piloerection, occurs when tiny muscles contract, causing the hair to stand on end. It serves as a form of communication that can indicate various emotional states. To accurately interpret your cat’s feelings, it is essential to observe their overall body language, vocalisations, and the context of the situation.

Fear, Shock, or Defensiveness
A puffed-up tail often signals that your cat is startled, anxious, or perceives a threat. This defensive posture aims to deter potential dangers such as dogs, other cats, loud noises, or unfamiliar people. A fear-induced puff is typically accompanied by additional body language cues:

• Arched back: Resembling the classic "Halloween cat" stance.
• Flattened ears: Ears pressed back against the head.
• Dilated pupils: Eyes appear wide and alert.
• Hissing or growling: Vocalisations signalling "keep away."
• Sideways stance: Turning sideways to maximise apparent size.

Playfulness or Excitement
A puffed-up tail does not always indicate fear. It can also reflect intense play or excitement. Kittens and younger cats often exhibit "turbo tails" during energetic games such as chasing.

• Zoomies: Sudden bursts of wild running accompanied by a puffy tail, indicating high energy and enthusiasm.
• Happy greeting: Some cats puff their tails when delighted to see their owner, often combined with purring and rubbing against them, signalling positive emotions.

Aggression or Agitation
When a cat feels angry or aggressive, a puffed tail may be part of a hostile display. This type of puff differs from a defensive one and may include:

• Low body posture: Crouching close to the ground.
• Tail whipping: Rapid, back-and-forth tail movements indicating irritation or anger.
• Raised fur: Fur along the spine standing erect.

Overstimulation
Occasionally, a cat will puff its tail when overstimulated, such as during petting. This behaviour signals that the cat has reached its limit and may bite if not given space.

Recommended Actions When Your Cat’s Tail Is Puffed Up:

• Assess the situation: Determine whether your cat is playing or reacting to a stressor such as a new sound or animal. Context is crucial for understanding their mood.
• Give them space: Unless it is clearly playful behaviour, it is advisable to step back and allow your cat to calm down. Forcing interaction may be perceived as a threat.
• Observe other cues: Evaluate your cat’s entire body language—including eyes, ears, whiskers, posture, and vocalisations—to gain a comprehensive understanding.
• Consult a veterinarian: If you observe a persistently puffed tail or other signs of illness or discomfort, seek professional veterinary advice.

A cat, including a Bengal, holding its tail upright signifies happiness, confidence, and friendly intentions. This behaviour commonly serves as a greeting, indicating the cat’s openness to interaction.
What a straight-up tail signifies
Happiness and confidence: A tail held high while the cat moves through its territory strongly indicates contentment and a sense of security.
Friendly greeting: When a cat approaches you or another amicable animal with its tail raised, it signals a desire to engage. This gesture, observed in kittens greeting their mothers, reflects a deeply ingrained social behaviour.
Sign of affection: An upright tail shows that the cat regards you as a trusted companion. This is an ideal moment for positive interactions such as petting or playing.
Excitement: A slight quiver or shake at the tip of a raised tail denotes heightened excitement or anticipation, for example, when expecting food or attention.
Is a Bengal’s tail different?
While some Bengal owners note that their cats wag their tails more frequently, the meaning of an upright tail remains consistent across breeds. However, certain breeds naturally carry their tails lower, so it is essential to consider your Bengal’s typical behaviour. Always observe additional body language cues to accurately interpret your cat’s mood.

A cat holding its tail low to the ground can signify various states, most commonly fear, anxiety, or aggression. However, in certain breeds, this posture is natural and indicative of a relaxed state. Common causes of low tail carriage include:
Fear or anxiety: A cat with its tail held low or tucked between its legs is exhibiting a submissive and fearful gesture, indicating it feels threatened.
Pain or illness: Inability to lift the tail may suggest a tail injury, nerve damage, or other internal discomfort.
Agitation or aggression: A tail held straight downward can indicate a serious or aggressive mood, distinct from fear as the tail is not tucked.
Stalking prey: When in “stealth mode,” a cat lowers its body and tail to the ground in preparation for a pounce.
Soreness or lameness: A cat walking with a low, stiff posture may be experiencing musculoskeletal pain, warranting veterinary evaluation.
Breed-specific low tail carriage: For some breeds, a low tail is a normal resting position and does not indicate fear or aggression. Examples include:

• Persian: This breed commonly carries its tail low without any apparent reason, adopting a characteristic posture.
• American Curl: Known primarily for their distinctive ears, the breed standard describes a flexible, wide tail tapering to a rounded tip. A relaxed American Curl may hold its long tail lower than other breeds.

When to consult a veterinarian: If your cat’s low tail posture is a new or sudden behaviour accompanied by other symptoms, it is advisable to seek veterinary advice. Be attentive to signs such as:

A "question mark" or "hook-shaped" tail on a Bengal cat—or any cat—commonly signifies friendliness, contentment, and a playful disposition. This behaviour is not exclusive to the Bengal breed but represents a universal feline body language cue. 

Meaning of a question mark tail
When a cat holds its tail upright with a curve or hook at the tip, it conveys positive emotions, including:

• Friendliness: The cat approaches you in a warm and sociable manner, indicating openness to interaction.
• Happiness: It reflects the cat’s confidence, comfort, and overall good mood.
• Playfulness: The cat is in a playful state and may be inviting you to engage in a game.
• Greeting: Frequently, cats greet their owners with their tails in this position, similar to how kittens greet their mothers.

Interpreting the signal
To accurately interpret a cat’s tail language, consider additional contextual cues such as body posture and the surrounding environment. If your cat approaches you with a question mark tail, it is likely inviting interaction and play.
This friendly gesture contrasts with a puffed-up tail, which indicates fear or aggression, or a tucked tail, which signals anxiety or discomfort.