A leopard's tail is almost as long as its entire body.

A leopard's tail contains 20 to 30 bones called caudal vertebrae. It can grow up to 1 meter (3.3 feet) long. This length is necessary because the tail works like a balancing tool. When the leopard turns quickly, the tail moves to create an opposite force. This keeps the cat's weight centered over its paws.This movement is vital during a hunt. If a leopard chases a gazelle that turns suddenly, the leopard swings its tail to the outside of the curve. This prevents the cat from sliding or falling over at high speeds. It works much like a long pole used by a tightrope walker.Leopards also use their tails while resting in trees. They often sleep on branches only 20 centimeters (8 inches) wide. The tail can twitch to adjust for wind or the cat's own breathing. This keeps the leopard from falling out of the tree while it sleeps.The tail also helps leopard families stay together. Many leopards have a white tip on the end of their tail. Cubs follow this bright spot like a signal light when walking through tall grass at night. This ensures the young cats do not get lost in the dark.