Why do cats meow, hiss or yowl? And does purring really mean they’re happy? Find out how to speak cat with our guide to the most common cat noises.
Understanding cat language: how to speak cat
Cats make a wide range of vocalisations, from gentle purrs, meows and chirrups to more urgent shrieks and yowls. Understanding this language better and decoding some of the cat noises they’re making will help you learn more about how your pet is feeling.
Why do cats meow?
Cats meow to get their human’s attention – they don’t actually talk to each other in this way. Instead, they communicate with other cats using scent, facial expressions and body language.
So, what do cat meows mean? The truth is, it may depend on the cat. We build up a relationship with our feline friends over time and they often develop specific meows depending on how we respond to them. If your cat meows at the door in a certain way and you then let them out, they’ll know to use the same type of meow to be let out in the future. Generally, when your cat meows, they want something such as attention, food or access to the outdoors.
Why is my cat meowing so much?
Bear in mind that some cats are naturally a lot more vocal than others because meowing can vary by breed. Cat breeds reputed to be particularly vocal include Oriental Shorthairs, Siamese, Tonkinese and Burmese. Less talkative felines may include the Persian, Russian Blue, Norwegian Forest and Maine Coon – but your cat’s individual personality will also play its part. Unspayed and unneutered cats will also naturally make more noise during mating seasons.
If your cat is meowing all the time – or if a previously quiet cat has started meowing more – they may be trying to alert you to their hunger, pain, anxiety or frustration. It’s a good idea to visit the vet to check out any possible health-related causes. Some feline conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, may be accompanied by increased vocalisation. Older cats may also meow for attention and reassurance if feeling confused by vision or hearing loss, or by cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
If your vet rules out a health problem and there’s no cause of stress in their environment, excessive meowing in cats may be more of a behavioural issue. Meowing is a learned behaviour, so if your cat is constantly meowing to demand food, try not to reward (and therefore reinforce) this habit. Instead, feed them only when they’re quieter.
They may also be meowing to ask for more love and attention. It might be worth consulting a cat behaviourist to explore the underlying reasons for excessive vocalisation.
Why do cats purr?
The gentle rumble of your cat’s purr often means they’re feeling contented – especially when stretched out in the sun or curled up on your knee. Kittens and their mothers purr to reassure each other of their presence.
However, it’s a myth that purring always means that cats are happy and relaxed. It can also be a sign that your cat is in pain or agitated over something – similar to how we might nervously hum or whistle. Check your cat’s posture and the context: if their ears are back and their body is tense, the purr might imply they are worried or uncomfortable.
Why do cats knead?
Purring is often accompanied by the characteristic cat body language known as kneading (also known as “making biscuits”). Cats often make this rhythmic back-and-forth motion with their paws when sitting on something soft. This habit may come from kittenhood, when they’d knead their mum’s belly to encourage milk flow.
So if your cat is purring while kneading your lap, take it as a compliment and try to ignore their prickly claws (a thick blanket can protect your lap) – kneading is probably a sign that they feel content and connected with you.
Why do cats growl?
Growling is a defensive cat noise, showing that your cat feels threatened. Sometimes accompanied by snarls and yowls, it can signify fear, anger or a territorial menace. Your cat uses these vocalisations to make themselves sound more intimidating. You’ll also notice a change in their body language, such as an arched back, flattened ears and puffed-up fur. If your cat makes these sounds, stay back. If you’re able to, remove the source of stress that could be causing them to react.
Why do cats hiss?
As with growling, when your cat hisses or spits, they mean business, so give them space. This defensive behaviour is a warning that they’re likely to scratch, bite or fight as they feel scared and threatened.
Why do cats yowl?
A long, drawn-out yowl is usually a sound made from one cat to another and can signal worry, discomfort and territorial or mating issues. Your cat might also yowl when they’re not feeling well or if there’s something in their environment that’s upsetting them, such as a new cat. Newly moved cats may also make yowling sounds – and some simply yowl when they’re bored.
If your cat starts yowling, check to see whether another cat or something else might be invading their territory. Also ensure they have toys and ample attention – they might just want to play with you. Yowling in older cats could be a sign of an underlying health issue. If you’re concerned that yowling is out of character for your cat, get them checked over by your vet.
Why do cats chatter?
Does your cat ever make chattering sounds through their teeth? Some cats will do this when they spot potential prey outside, such as birds or squirrels. It’s thought to convey both their excitement and potentially their stress at not being able to get to the prize.
Why do cats scream at night?
If you hear shrieks and screams from cats outside at night, they’re likely to be either fighting or mating. If you’re concerned about your pet or if they’re often getting into fights, consider keeping them inside at night-time.
Cat chirruping
Kittens learn trills and chirruping noises from their mothers, and will sometimes use them to greet humans when they’re older. Chirrups tend to be used to get your attention and signify excitement or contentment.
Whatever your cat’s vocal habits, if a previously quiet cat has become chatty or vice versa (especially if they also seem lethargic or depressed), a visit to the vet might be in order.