2008.08.31
The Science of Wagging Tails
Blog entry by Heather Froeschl - filling in for Nona.
Scientists seem to have looked into just about everything. I've sometimes wondered if there was a specific language to decipher in the wag of a dog's tail, but I've never really paid such close attention as to notice which way the sway originates from. "Dogs wag their tails to the left or right depending on how they're feeling," Italian researchers say. Hm. Isn't a wag a back and forth, side to side motion? Here is an interesting article on a study done to research the possible patterns: http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2007/03/29/1884414.htm
Just to give equal time, I dug up an article on why cats "wag" their tails. Having had quite a few, I already knew that it typically means they are annoyed with you, or the kitten who is batting at their tail, or they have suddenly developed a foul mood, as cats are known to do at a moment's notice. Gotta love 'em! Here's a link to what the folks at petplace.com have to say: http://www.petplace.com/cats/why-cats-wag-their-tails/page1.aspx
A friend of mine from Florida once told me that she had read cats that wag their entire tail are angry. Cats that wag just half their tail are happy.
Since then, I've watched my cat closer and am pretty sure this is correct.
BTW: Did you guys see that Lousianna have upgraded their evacuation plan for pets? They are allowing pet owners to bring thier furry family members along on evacuation buses and into shelters.
When I lived in Florida, that was a major reason many wouldn't leave their home. Because of the shelter's no-pet policy. What a difference three years makes...
Comment by Amy Hanek — September 1, 2008 @ 9:18 am