
A cat's tail is an extension of the spine containing numerous vertebrae, muscles, nerves, and connective tissues.
During movement, the tail can help with balance and body positioning, particularly when navigating narrow surfaces or making rapid changes in direction.
Its position also communicates information. An upright tail, puffed tail, low tail, and rapidly moving tail can appear in very different emotional and social situations.
One body part can therefore function as both movement equipment and a visible communication signal.
© Cornell Feline Health Center