What is a visible sign that indicates stress in cats?

Cats express stress through a variety of behaviors, and recognizing these signs is crucial for ensuring their well-being in a veterinary setting. Among the choices provided, tail position is a particularly notable indicator of a cat's emotional state. When a cat is relaxed, their tail might be held high and twitching lightly, but a lowered tail or a puffed-up tail signals fear or agitation.

Vocalizing can also be a sign of stress, with some cats meowing or yowling when they feel threatened or uncomfortable. However, it is important to consider that vocalizations can vary widely in meaning and are not exclusively indicative of stress.

Hiding often serves as a coping mechanism for cats feeling stressed; they seek refuge to feel safer in their environment. While it is an indicator of stress, it is more about the cat's instinctive response rather than a visible sign like the tail position.

Panting is generally more associated with dogs and can indicate heat stress or respiratory issues. Cats may pant in extreme situations, but it is less common and not recognized as a typical sign of stress.

Overall, the position of a cat’s tail serves as a clear and immediate visual cue to their emotional state, making it a reliable indicator of stress. Understanding these signals