Never Play Like This: Why You Shouldn't Pull a Cat's Tail

You probably heard your parents tell you not to pull a cat's tail as a child, and then you started telling your children the same thing, saying that playing with a pet like that is uncomfortable and painful. It turns out that's not the only reason why you shouldn't pull a cat's tail.

There are nerve endings in the tail

Anyone who's ever owned a furry pet knows that cats don't like it when strangers touch their tails. Not only do they dislike being pulled or grabbed, but they also dislike any, even the slightest, touch to this part of their body. This is because cats' tails contain nerve endings that react to their environment. Even a minor injury to this part of their body can cause severe pain, so avoid tugging on it. If you want to pet your kitty, avoid this area; the cat will tugg on it even if you accidentally touch it.

The tail is a continuation of the animal's spine

Another reason to avoid grabbing a cat's tail is that it is an extension of the pet's spine. It contains vertebrae, joints, and cartilage, making this part of the body quite flexible. If the tail is damaged, the cat will not be able to walk normally, as its integrity is directly connected to its musculoskeletal system. This is why cats' tails are not docked.

There's also a saying that if you pull a cat's tail, it will stop using the litter box and start doing its business elsewhere. This isn't a myth; it's true. Damage to the tail can disrupt the pet's genitourinary system, leading to urinary incontinence, bladder problems, or even hind leg paralysis.

A cat's tail is easily injured and broken.

Although cats are quite protective of their tails and don't tuck them in anywhere, they can still be injured. It's quite easy to break them, as they're made up of flexible cartilage, vertebrae, and joints. However, recovery can take a long time, and sometimes it may not heal at all. Therefore, if you have small children and a cat, teach your child from birth to be gentle with their furry friend, especially their tail, and not allow them to tug or pull it.

A cat's tail isn't just for show; it's a vital organ, without which the animal simply wouldn't survive. It serves functions such as maintaining balance, communicating with other pets, and regulating mood. The tail also helps cats stay warm, as in cold weather, they can use it to cover their frozen nose. Therefore, you shouldn't pull your cat by this organ, even if they've misbehaved.