Seven cat sounds and what they mean

From meowing and purring to hisses, growls and groans, cats make a wide variety of sounds. Though they sometimes sound like gibberish to human ears, feline vocalizations communicate our pets’ emotions and needs— if we know how to listen. Here are a few of the most common cat sounds:
1.     Meowing – Kittens meow to get their mothers’ attention, and so do our domestic pets meow to grab our ears. Cats think of us as their perpetual parents and meowing can signal Kitty wants something from you, whether it’s food, to have his litter box cleaned or your affection.

It’s worth noting that all meows are not created equal and cats will use this vocalization to express a range of emotions. A short, quick meow often means your cat is lonely or wants food, while a prolonged, moaning meow can be a sign of worry, irritation or some other objection. By listening to your pet, you should be able to decipher what his unique range of meows means. Beware, though, that incessant meowing can be a sign of illness and you should consider taking your pet to the veterinarian if he doesn’t stop.

2. Purring– Cats purr when they’re content, but they also produce this comforting vibration when feeling threatened or scared. Watch Kitty’s body language to be sure what this soft, throaty sound means.

 

3.  Chirrup – A happy trilling noise, a chirrup is your cats’ way of greeting his beloved human. It is a sound reserved for when your pet is feeling excited and happy, or may be his way of getting your attention.

                                      

4. Chatter – This stuttering noise is generally a cat’s response to seeing something he can’t reach, such as a bird outside the window. It is thought to display excitement or frustration at the object out of reach.

5. Growl – This low, rumbling noise is a warning to stay away. If your cat is feeling afraid, angry or territorial, he’ll growl, and you should give him the space he needs.

 

6. Hissing – Hissing is your cat’s response to fear and shows he is ready to fight, if necessary. Often accompanied by an arched back, puffed tail and flattened ears, hissing can signal to that your pet wants to be left alone, so be sure to give him space.

 

7. Caterwaul – This shrill noise is unique to female cats in heat. It is a wailing call to let other cats know she is available to mate.

 
You can interpret your cat’s sounds simply by paying attention. Watch for the physical stimulus your cat is reacting to— another cat, a bird outside the window, or his own hunger, for example—and pay attention to his body language. That will help you determine how your pet is feeling and the message he’s hoping to convey. And remember, the specific sounds a cat makes