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Anonymous
The tail thumping is a warning. Cats communicate through their tail signals a lot more than other animals considering it's so flexible.
When it thumps, she is saying "Stop, or I'm going to hurt you." I know, because my cat of 8 years has very distinct tail signals, and I know when she's going to attack me when we're playing because she does that right before, or if I'm irritating her she'll thump it a couple of times.
A flicking tail, from side to side, is usually excitment. It's like telling their cubs to watch closely on whatever it is she's fixated on before she attacks. Flicking tails are usually only seen when cats play with eachother, or are hunting. It doesn't mean she hates you, but if you don't want to be played with in a cat-fashion, leave her alone at that point.
When the tail is elevated and slightly twitching at the end if she's checking something out, she's telling you to stay where you are until the coast is clear.
Keep in mind since cats are solitary creatures, the mother is usually the only caretaker, thus females are usually more "vocal" with their tails. Because their kittens are always behind them, and that is her way of telling them whats going on without being distracted and loosing sight of potential food.
Ear communication is a little more vague, but there are obvious signs.
Ears back and flat is an obvious "Fuck off, NOW", especially if accompanied by the tail thump. Ears twisted back slightly is usually annoyance, or else they're listening to something behind them. Ears normal, like in the picture, are a relaxed and happy cat. Ears perked way up and forward means she's heard something curious and is going to check it out.
Like humans, cats have slight facial expressions too. When they're angry, they look angry. Eyes usually narrow a little when they get pissed.
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