Wagging of tails

Question
Hi Norman,

I noticed that my cat, which is an ordinary domestic housecat, will often wag its tail when I stroke it or am playing with it. Like dogs, is the wagging a sign of pleasure/friendly behaviour?

Answer
Shearer,

The wagging, or flicking of tails in cats does not necessarily mean what it does in dogs. If the cat is intense, as in stalking something, the tail will flick from side to side.  If the cat is annoyed at something, it will also flick its tail from side to side.  If the cat is very content and enjoying its affection, it may also flick its tail from side to side.  

So, one has to look at the eyes, ears, and muscle tenseness (or not), to put the whole thing together to ascertain what the flicking tail means in each situation.

Best regards... Norm.