What does it mean when a cat's tail shakes?

There are several meanings behind a cat's shaking tail, and owners should pay attention to observe their pets' behaviors. First, if a cat is scared, it will shake its tail to show tension and fear. Secondly, if a cat feels threatened, it will also shake its tail to threaten and intimidate the opponent. Furthermore, when a cat is stretching, its tail may unconsciously shake, usually indicating a relaxed state. Lastly, if a cat's tail has suffered external injuries, it may cause the cat to shiver due to pain. In this case, it's recommended to seek medical attention promptly.

Scared

If a cat is frightened, such as by a loud noise or the presence of strangers in the house, it will shake its tail due to tension and fear. Sometimes, the cat may also emit warning sounds. In this scenario, the owner should take the cat to a quiet place to rest and ensure a stable environment, allowing the cat to gradually calm down.

Threatening

When a cat feels threatened, it will stand up its tail and shake it to intimidate the opponent. Some cats may also adopt a hunched back posture. This indicates that the cat is ready to attack at any moment. Therefore, it's advised not to approach the cat too closely to avoid being injured accidentally.

Stretching

When a cat is stretching, its body is in a state of exertion, causing its tail to naturally shake along with it. This usually indicates that the cat feels very relaxed and comfortable. Owners don't need to be overly concerned in this situation.

Pain

If a cat's tail has suffered external injuries, such as bruises, fractures, or tail vertebrae damage, the intense pain may cause the tail to shake. The cat may also avoid having its tail touched by the owner. This is a more severe situation, and it's recommended to take the cat to a pet hospital as soon as possible for examination and treatment.