October 3, 1999, Sunday
Westchester Weekly Desk
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PETS; Twitching and Wagging,
A Tail Conveys a Lot
By SARAH HODGSON
There are those who argue pets lack emotional capacities. That only the human species has the ability to think and feel; dogs and cats simply respond to their environment if it satisfies a primary need. But for those who know pets first hand, there is little doubt. Though they cannot articulate with words, their body language is expressive. If their tails could talk they would have plenty to say.
Cats Tails
It is widely known that a cats' tail aid in balance. If, by accident, a cat should fall backwards from a height, it can reorient itself mid-air to land squarely on all four paws. Their tails, however, have another function: to convey their intention and emotion.
A confident or happy cat will carry its tail at a ninety degree angle to the body, the tip twitching slightly forward and proud, as when in the safe presence of trusted companions. In play, the tail tip will drop back slightly from that position, creating a U shape.
Unlike a dog that often wags it's tail in joy, a feline tail sweep does not reflect bliss. In this instant the cat is experiencing intense conflict, as when an intruder cat enters into what is considered home turf. Moderate annoyance is reflected in a deliberate side to side twitch; a reaction that also reflects thwarted prey drive, as when a cat stares into a fish bowl. When the stress is removed the tail re-centers, although a cat will often move or lick itself to displace tension.
There are still other emotions to be read. A frightened cat curls its tail tightly between its legs, trying to look so small and non-threatening. Cornered, with no other options, this cat may spring, attacking its opponent out of fear. A cat who stands it's ground when confronted or startled by another cat or other species will do the opposite-the tail will puff out to twice it's size and be carried vertically in what's known as a "bottle-brush" position. The message: I'm big, I'm nervous, but I don't want to back down.
Dogs Tails
There is a common misconception that a wagging tail means pure pleasure and immediate acceptance. Although that is a primary signal of elation, dogs also wag their tails in times of distress, when threatened or on guard. To translate a wag, you must take other aspects into account, such as the situation, breed of dog, and the tails' position.
In a greeting state of pure acceptance a dog will wag its tail horizontally from side to side; the more familiar the company, the broader the tail will sweep. If, however, a guest is unknown the wag will have different implications. A carefree dog will wag regardless of identity. The cautious dog will wag its tail in a lowered horizontal position. A frightened dog will tuck its tail beneath the legs, avoiding the situation entirely. If, however, the tail is wagging, rigid and raised, and accompanied with assertive vocalization or a lifted body posture, guest best beware. This dog's intentions are not friendly.
Dogs use their tails throughout the day, not just during the greeting ritual. In play the tail is raised and either still to convey concentration or wagging intensely to encourage interaction. Alone, though a dog will use its tail for balance, it will not wag unless prompted by anothers company. For some dogs even a bug will do.
A dog (like the cat) will lower its tail if in fear and will lash out aggressively if cornered with no other options. The instinct to hide the tail in truth reduces many dogs to half their size, a signal that screams surrender. On the other hand a dog that asserts its control will use the tail to broaden the body. Lifting it high and stretching it out, an aggressive dog often wags it in shorter sweeps to communicate tension.
The extent to which either animal favors a tail posture will provide insight to its personality. Cats or dogs that tuck their tails in new situations are considered submissive or fearful. Those that do the opposite, carrying their tails high, are confident and outgoing. And, as with people, there are shades of gray: emotions that conflict. Picture a dog who tucks its tail in fear, but also wags it and tries to approach, or a cat who puffs it's tail only to befriend the foe.
