Felis Catus, the domestic house cat, has both delighted and puzzled humans since we began living together. The cat is a vocal creature, capable of producing a complex and varied range of cat sounds that appear to convey meaning. If a cat has ever scolded you, you will be nodding in agreement at that statement.
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The science behind cat sounds
The anatomy of a cat's vocal chords and throat doesn't allow for human speech. However, some human words contain sounds that are similar to those made by a cat, hence the occasional cat that calls their owner "Mama".
Cats produce sounds around humans for a number of reasons. It is in their nature to vocalize.
They have learned that certain sounds result in certain human behaviors.
Who trained whom remains in question, but cats do interact with us with sound.
Let's take a look at a few of the classic sounds cats make.
Purring
Purring is the first sound people think of when they think about cats. It is a complex sound and appears to use the entire respiratory system at times.
There are three types of purr.
- Silent purr: The first is a constant, low-level vibration that may not even be audible but only felt.
- Audible purr: A second type of purr is the same vibration, only loud enough to hear.
- Exhaled purr: The loudest purr is one that clearly involves breathing, as it is loud and produced on exhalation. "Purr! Purr! Purr!"
Humans can imitate a purr with a vibration in the back of their throat, but hold a purring cat and it becomes obvious that the cat is doing something different.
Meowing
The primary vocalization of a cat is the "Meow".
As with humans, the pronunciation and tone will vary both in an individual cat and especially among breeds. A Siamese sounds very different than a tabby.
Cat breeds range from the very vocal Siamese to the very quiet American Curl.
Kittens learn some of their vocalizations from their mother.
Kittens raised together without a mother or with various breeds of cats can adopt some of the vocalizations of the cats in their society, though not all.
Small differences in anatomy may account for the lack of adoption of every sound.
Growls and Screams
Some of the most dramatic vocalizations done by cats involve fighting or sex.
- Growling = warning: Deep, fierce growling coupled with high-pitched screams signals readiness for a fight.
- Screaming = conflict or fear: It is a sign of distress.
- Caterwauling = "singing" is sexual in nature. It is a romantic (and often loud) call to potential mates.
Chattering, Chittering, and Teeth Gnashing
These sounds are specific to some cats in certain situations, mostly in prey excitement. It is produced when a cat sees prey.
An indoor cat in a window may chatter as it watches a bird or squirrel on a branch just outside the window.
Not all cats will do this, and it appears to be a learned behavior. It is possibly born of frustration and/or instinctual hunting patterns.
When and Why Cats Make Sounds
Some cats will announce their arrival with a sound.
Some cats will make a sound that seems to ask if your lap is available for occupancy.
Cats will call for their friends when they are lonely or want to play.
Cats will ask for something special, a treat, a toy, or an interaction with you, with a sound that both of you will come to associate with that item or activity.
Talking With Your Cat
You can hold a conversation with a cat! Neither of you will be quite sure what the other is saying, but you can converse.
The back-and-forth conversations will build trust, connection, and understanding. Over time, you will learn each other's tones and moods.
Final Thoughts
Whether they are singing, meowing, or purring, cats have something to say. And in the end, the ultrasonic purr of a cat in your lap will make the two of you feel happier, healthier, less stressed, and most importantly - loved!
Elizabeth says
This is useful to know!
Nancy says
This was an interesting article on a fascinating subject!
AuntySuzany says
My kitty meows once after she goes potty. And occasionally when she is frisky wanting to play. Mostly when she demands for the front door to be opened so she can neighborhood watch through the screen door. on her footstool. She chatters at birds and bugs in the window. She does chirp meow to answer us sometimes.
Barrie says
I had no idea as we have never owned cats. Very interesting.
Rebecca says
Thanks for sharing!
Heather says
I enjoyed reading this post our cats talk a lot.
Gina Ferrell says
These are such fun facts to know about cats.
Anita says
My cat does the chattering, chittering, and teeth Gnashing when he sits at the window bird watching. I think the birds mess with him. They come real close and dare him knowing there's a protective barrier so he can't haha
Kim Henrichs says
I love when my kitty chitters at birds!
Terri Quick says
Thank you for sharing this