8 Cat Sounds and What They Mean

Cats meow to communicate with humans. Hungry, lonely, scared or hurt cats may meow more.

Meowing

Purring signals contentment and comfort. But cats may also purr when anxious or injured to self-soothe.

Purring

Chirping shows excitement, particularly when watching prey or anticipating food and play.

Chirping 

Growling indicates fear, distrust or aggression. Leave angry cats alone to calm down.

Growling

Hissing is a warning to back away. Give frightened, upset cats space.

Hissing

Female cats yowl when in heat. Males yowl to attract mates. Get cats spayed/neutered.

Yowling

Chattering mimics prey. It means anticipation, concentration, excitement.  

Chattering 

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