Which behavior indicates that an animal may be agitated?

Intense staring is a behavior that can indicate agitation in an animal. This behavior might signal that the animal feels threatened, is on high alert, or is preparing for a potential conflict. When an animal stares intensely, it can be a warning sign of stress or discomfort, as they are often focused on a specific object or person that they may perceive as a threat. This is in contrast to other behaviors that generally indicate contentment or calmness, such as a wagging tail, which often signifies happiness or excitement, or leaning towards the handler, suggesting a desire for closeness or interaction. Similarly, purring softly typically indicates a relaxed state, often associated with comfort and well-being in cats. Thus, the intense staring is a clear indicator of agitation as it reflects the animal's heightened state of awareness and potential distress.