Cats Meow
Cats are known for their unique vocalizations, and while many believe these sounds to be random gibberish, they actually hold specific meaning. In fact, cats possess the widest range of vocalizations of any domestic pet, second only to birds. Their meows, purrs, hisses, growls, and other cat sounds are indicative of their emotional state of mind and can provide valuable information about their world and how they feel towards their owners.
Understanding the meaning behind the 12 most common cat sounds can help owners better communicate and interact with their feline companions. From contentment and ease to worry, fear, and anger, each sound holds a specific purpose and can signal a particular feeling or need. By listening closely and paying attention to body language and other signals, owners can follow their cat’s lead and foster a stronger bond with their furry friends.
Key Takeaways
- Cats possess a wide range of vocalizations, each holding a specific meaning.
- Understanding the 12 most common cat sounds can help owners communicate and interact with their feline companions.
- Paying attention to body language and other signals can help owners follow their cat’s lead and strengthen their bond.
Cats Meow Sound
The cat’s meow is the most commonly heard cat sound, and it is primarily used to communicate with humans rather than other cats. Kittens initially use meows to communicate with their mothers, but as wild cats mature, they stop using them. However, domestic cats continue to use meows throughout their lives, considering themselves as our eternal offspring.
Meows are generally used to convey a desire for attention, food, or access to a room. They can also serve as a greeting to welcome their owners home. A shortened version of the meow, “mew?”, is used by younger cats when they are lonely or hungry. The frequency of meows is an indicator of a cat’s mood, with rapid-fire meows indicating that the cat wants attention.
A longer, plaintive “meowww” can indicate worry, annoyance, or disagreement with something. This version of the meow often has a throatier quality to it, almost as if the cat is saying “oh, come on.” Incessant meowing could indicate illness or injury, so it is important to consider a trip to the veterinarian if you suspect this.
Older cats often meow more due to failing senses or anxiety over not being as nimble as before. In contrast, younger cats tend to use meows more frequently when they are hungry or want attention. Overall, meows are a crucial part of a cat’s communication with humans and can convey a wide range of emotions and desires.
Cat Purr
The purr is a deep, throaty rumble that is most commonly associated with a cat’s contentment. It is a sound that is often heard when a cat is being gently petted or is nestled in someone’s lap. The purr is a sign of relaxation and happiness, and it is a friendly and comforting sound to many cat owners.
While purring is typically associated with positive emotions, it can also occur in cats that are feeling agitated or nervous. This type of purring, known as a “worry-purr,” can be distinguished by the cat’s body posture. If the cat’s ears are back and its body seems tense, the purr may indicate concern over something.
Cats may also purr when nursing their kittens, which is thought to have a calming effect on both the mother and her offspring. Overall, the purr is a fascinating aspect of feline behavior that has been studied extensively by researchers.
Cat Chirps, Trills, and Chirrups
Cat chirps, trills, and chirrups are birdlike sounds that cats learn in kittenhood. These noises are slightly more declarative than a meow and were originally used by mothers to tell kittens to pay attention and follow her. Cats may chirp in an effort to get their owner’s attention or to get them to check out something they deem important. Chirrups and squeaky little trills might also happen when a cat is excited and happy, or during play.
Cat Chatter
Cat chatter is a noise that cats make when they are excited and stressed about prey they cannot reach. This noise is often accompanied by a chirp, squeak, or faint cry. Some believe that the chatter is a mimicked bird or rodent call, but this is not supported by evidence. Cats rely on silence and stealth to hunt, so it is unlikely that they would mimic the sounds of their prey. The chatter is thought to be an indicator of a cat’s predatory excitement and stress at not being able to reach the prize.
Cat Hiss
A cat’s hiss is a clear warning sign that it feels threatened and is ready to fight if necessary. The sound is unmistakable, and it is often accompanied by a change in the cat’s body language, including an arched back, puffed hair, twitchy tail, flattened ears, and an open mouth with fangs ready to strike. Spitting can also occur with a hiss, adding to the cat’s threatening display.
The frequency of hissing can vary depending on the individual cat’s perception and level of comfort. Some outgoing cats may hardly ever hiss, while a more reserved cat may resort to it whenever unsure of a situation. Feral, stray, or abused cats are more likely to go into “hissing mode” than a well-adjusted, sociable pet.
It is important to recognize a cat’s hiss as a sign of anger, fear, or frustration. When a cat hisses, it is best to back off and remove the perceived threat. A big, friendly dog or an unfamiliar person can provoke a hiss from even the friendliest of cats.
Cat Yowl
Cat yowling is a plaintive, distressing sound that is longer and more drawn-out than a meow. It can signal a variety of emotions, including worry, discomfort, territorial concern, or mating issues. Cats use yowling to communicate with other cats, indicating their desire to mate or their territorial boundaries. However, it can also be a sign of illness or cognitive decline, or a response to an unfavorable change in the cat’s environment, such as the presence of a new cat.
If a cat is yowling incessantly, it is important to check for signs of illness and take the cat to the veterinarian if necessary. If the cat has not been neutered or spayed, it is recommended to do so, especially if the cat is an outdoor cat. It is also important to be aware of any other cats that might be invading the cat’s territory and take appropriate action, such as trapping, neutering, and adopting out to the right home.
Ensuring that the cat has ample toys and receives enough attention from their owner can also help alleviate yowling. Sometimes all it takes to end a case of the yowls is just an extra play session each day.
In summary, cat yowling can indicate various emotions and situations, and it is important to take appropriate action to address the underlying cause.
Cat Caterwaul
The caterwaul is a hollow-sounding, plaintive yowl that un-spayed female cats produce when they are in heat. They use it to call out to potential mates. This sound is almost like “ahh-roo-ugh?” and is abbreviated. During this time, female cats will do everything they can to get outside and meet male cats who are also yowling and fighting for the opportunity to mate.
Cat Scream (aka the Cat Sound that Stops You in Your Tracks)
Cats can make a variety of sounds, but one that is particularly alarming is the loud, wailing, high-pitched cry known as the cat scream. This sound can be blood-curdling and can stop you in your tracks. There are two main reasons why a cat may scream: mating and fighting.
When an un-spayed female cat is outdoors, her caterwauling can attract a male cat, and mating will likely occur. During the mating process, the male may bite the female’s neck, causing pain and leading to a scream. This is a good reason to have cats sterilized.
Cats in the midst of a fight may also scream. These primeval shrieks often come after a long, ominous yowl and usually punctuate a climactic paw swat or vicious bite. Even fixed pets will actively defend their territories, so it’s important to keep them indoors to avoid fighting injuries.
In summary, the cat scream is a high-pitched cry that can be alarming to hear. It can be caused by mating or fighting, and it’s important to take steps to prevent these situations to keep cats safe and healthy.
Cat Snarls, Growls and Other Cat Sounds
When a cat is feeling threatened or stressed, it may emit snarls and growls as a warning sign. These sounds are usually of a higher pitch than those of larger cats and can start or end with a yowl. The classic defensive body posture of a snarling or growling cat includes puffed up fur, arched back, ears back, and tail twitching. It’s best to leave the cat alone unless it’s in imminent danger from another cat.
Cats MEow and Breed Talk
Some cats are naturally more talkative than others, and certain breeds of Asian origin are known to be chatty. Breeds such as the Abyssinian, Balinese-Javanese, Bengal, Birman, Japanese Bobtail, Siamese, Sphynx, Ocicat, Oriental, Peterbald, Tonkinese, and Turkish Van are instinctively chatty kitties. Shorthaired cats are generally more outgoing than longhaired cats and tend to be more talkative.
On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter cat, consider breeds such as the Persian, Russian Blue, Chartreux, Norwegian Forest Cat, or Maine Coon. However, it’s important to note that breed-specific guidelines are not failsafe, and you could end up with a noisy Persian or a silent Siamese.
By understanding what your cat is trying to say, you can better predict their mood, intentions, and needs. Cats communicate through various sounds, and it’s essential to know what each sound means. Swedish phonetics expert and cat researcher Dr. Susanne Schötz has deciphered recordings of all the different cat sounds, which can be helpful for cat owners.
If your cat is particularly chatty at night, it’s essential to understand why. Nighttime meowing can be a sign of hunger, sickness, or loneliness, among other things. Understanding your cat’s needs and communicating with them effectively can lead to a happier and healthier relationship between you and your feline friend.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cats Meow
What does it mean when a cat is trilling?
Trilling is a type of vocalization that cats make when they are happy and content. It is a high-pitched sound that is often accompanied by purring. Trilling is a way for cats to communicate with their owners and express their affection.
Why is my cat making a weird vibrating noise?
If your cat is making a weird vibrating noise, it could be a sign that they are feeling anxious or stressed. This noise is often accompanied by other signs of anxiety, such as pacing or hiding. If you notice your cat making this noise frequently, it may be a good idea to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
What are some noises cats make?
Cats make a variety of different noises, including meowing, purring, hissing, growling, and yowling. Each of these sounds has a different meaning and is used in different situations. For example, cats may meow to get their owner’s attention, while hissing is a sign of aggression or fear.
What do the different cat sounds mean?
Each cat sound has a different meaning. Meowing is often used to communicate with humans, while purring is a sign of contentment. Hissing and growling are signs of aggression or fear, while yowling is often a sign of distress or pain. Understanding the different sounds that your cat makes can help you better communicate with them and meet their needs.
Why does my cat sound like a pigeon?
If your cat sounds like a pigeon, it could be a sign of a respiratory issue or other health problem. It is important to take your cat to the vet to rule out any underlying medical conditions.
What does it mean when cats meows a lot?
If your cat is meowing a lot, it could be a sign that they are trying to communicate with you. Cats may meow to get their owner’s attention, to express their needs, or to show affection. However, excessive meowing could also be a sign of an underlying medical condition or behavioral issue, so it is important to take your cat to the vet if you notice a sudden change in their meowing behavior.