When it comes to understanding cat-to-cat communication, the position and movement of the tail can provide valuable insights into a cat's social behavior and intentions. Cats use their tails as a means of expressing various emotions and messages to other felines.

One common tail position is when a cat holds its tail upright and straight. This is often seen during positive interactions, such as when two cats are greeting each other in a friendly manner. The raised tail serves as a signal of non-aggression and a willingness to engage in social interaction.

On the other hand, a cat may tuck its tail tightly between its hind legs. This behavior is typically associated with fear, anxiety, or submission. When a cat feels threatened or intimidated, it may try to make itself appear smaller by lowering and hiding its tail. This is often seen in situations where a dominant cat is asserting its authority over a subordinate one.

Another important tail behavior to note is the swishing or flicking of the tail. This can indicate a range of emotions, including annoyance, agitation, or arousal. For example, a cat that is annoyed by another cat's presence may flick its tail back and forth rapidly as a warning sign before escalating the situation into aggression.

It's also worth mentioning the puffed-up tail, which is a clear sign of aggression or fear. When a cat feels threatened or is preparing to attack, it may fluff up its tail to appear larger and more intimidating to its opponent. This behavior is often accompanied by other aggressive body postures, such as arched back and hissing.

References:

1. Bradshaw, J. W., Cameron-Beaumont, C., & Casey, R. A. (2009). The signaling repertoire of the domestic cat and its undomesticated relatives. In The Domestic Cat: The Biology of its Behaviour (pp. 67-93). Cambridge University Press.
2. Tabor, R. K. (1997). The Wild Life of the Domestic Cat. HarperCollins Publishers.