Cats, those fascinating and beloved feline companions, have a unique and nuanced language that is often intriguing to humans. Their communication is not limited to just body language; they also include a rich variety of sounds that can leave us perplexed. According to experts, cats are capable of emitting more than 100 vocalizations, each with a specific purpose. This article will help you understand why your cat emits weird sounds, how to interpret them, and how to respond appropriately. Get ready, because this detailed guide will help you understand your furry friend much better.
The most common sounds in cats
Deciphering the complex language of cats requires patience and observation. If you've ever wondered "why does my cat make weird noises?", you're about to solve that mystery. Here are the most common vocalizations and their possible meanings.
1. Sound of hunting
If you see your cat watching a bird or insect with great concentration from the window, it is likely that it will start emitting a vibrating sound, accompanied by rapid movements of its jaw that produce a peculiar noise. This "cackling" is a reflection of its hunting instinct and may denote frustration as it cannot reach its prey. Some experts suggest that this sound could be an attempt to imitate the sounds of birds.
2. The meow
Meowing is the most representative vocalization of cats, used mainly to communicate with humans. Kittens meow to get their mother's attention, while adult cats use it to express their feelings. specific needs, such as hunger, attention, or desire to play.
- Adult cats usually meow exclusively to communicate with humans.
- Un deaf cat may emit louder meows due to their inability to hear their own sounds.
Fun fact: every cat develops a «personalized dictionary» of meows that their owners eventually understand.
3. Purring
Purring is one of the most pleasant and well-known vocalizations. Although it is usually associated with moments of happiness and relaxation, such as when a cat is being petted, it can also be a mechanism of self-soothing in situations of stress, pain or even during their last moments of life.
Interestingly, there is a “begging purr,” which is a mix of a meow and a purr, used when a cat is seeking something specific, such as attention or food.
4. Grunts and snorts
These vocalizations are clear signs that a cat is feeling threatened o angryThey are often accompanied by defensive postures such as ears back, an arched body and an inflated tail. If you hear your cat growling or hissing, it is best to respect their space to avoid making them even more nervous.
Interesting: hissing is not only a defense mechanism, but also a way to avoid direct conflict.
5. Chirps and trills
These sounds, reminiscent of a friendly greeting, are common among cats and between the cat and its owner. Chirps are often used to express joy o enthusiasm when seeing someone you love.
Less common sounds and what they mean
1. Howls
Howls are long, high-pitched sounds, often indicating discomfort, disease o StressIn unneutered cats, these howls may be related to heat. If you notice that your cat is howling frequently, it is important to identify the cause and, if necessary, consult a veterinarian.
2. Whistles
A hiss indicates that the cat feels threatened o uncomfortableThis vocalization can be a warning before possible defensive behavior, so it is essential to act with caution.
3. Squeals
A sudden, high-pitched squeal is commonly a sign of pain o surpriseThis sound can arise during conflicts between cats or if your pet suffers an injury.
4. Cackle
As mentioned above, cackling reflects a mix of excitement and frustration during the “mock hunt.” This behavior is fascinating and shows how ingrained the natural instincts of cats.
How to improve communication with your cat?
Understanding your cat's sounds is only part of the equation; observing your cat's behavior is also essential. body languageYour cat's ears, tail, and facial expressions can provide additional clues about what he's trying to communicate.
For example, ears back combined with a snort indicate discomfort o fear, while a raised tail and gentle movements usually reflect joy y TrustIf you want to learn more about cat body language, we recommend reading our guide on the cat's ears.
What to do if you notice changes in your cat's vocalizations?
If you notice significant changes in the sounds your cat makes, it's important to pay attention. These changes could indicate potential health problems or stress. For example:
- Excessive meowing: They can be a sign of boredom, hunger or even hyperthyroidism.
- Continuous purring: If it occurs in stressful situations, it could be a self-calming mechanism.
- Night howls: In older cats, they may be related to cognitive dysfunction.
If you have any doubts, it never hurts to consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health problems in your pet.
Observing, listening to and learning from your cat will strengthen the bond you have with him and allow you to offer him a better quality of life. If you want to learn more about this topic, we also recommend reading our article on Common causes of stress in cats.