Which tail position is characteristic of a relaxed feline?

Which tail position is characteristic of a relaxed feline?

• A. Tail tucked tightly against body
• B. Tail flicking rapidly at the base
• C. Tail above topline with inverted 'question mark' and gentle wagging
• D. Tail low and flat along the back

Answer: (C)

A relaxed cat shows calm, confident body language, and the tail often mirrors that ease. When the tail is held high above the topline with a gentle wag and a slight curve that resembles an inverted question mark, it signals comfort and openness to interaction. This posture means the cat feels secure in its environment and is approachable, not sensing threat or stress. In contrast, other tail positions reflect tension or unease—tucking the tail tightly against the body indicates fear or pain, rapid flicking at the base shows irritation or arousal, and a tail held low and flat along the back can suggest anxiety or defensiveness. So the high, gently wagging tail is the best indicator of a relaxed feline.

A relaxed cat shows calm, confident body language, and the tail often mirrors that ease. When the tail is held high above the topline with a gentle wag and a slight curve that resembles an inverted question mark, it signals comfort and openness to interaction. This posture means the cat feels secure in its environment and is approachable, not sensing threat or stress. In contrast, other tail positions reflect tension or unease—tucking the tail tightly against the body indicates fear or pain, rapid flicking at the base shows irritation or arousal, and a tail held low and flat along the back can suggest anxiety or defensiveness. So the high, gently wagging tail is the best indicator of a relaxed feline.