Vocal Sounds and body Language

Although a cat cannot talk to us it can communicate with ourselves and other animals by vocal sounds and body language.

Purring
Purring is the sound that comes from deep within the circulatory system of a cat. Why does a cat purr? Some reasons given are:

• A sign of contentment and relaxation
• A mother will purr at her kittens to reassure them
• Kittens will purr at their mother to let her know they are warm and secure
• Cats will purr when then are nervous and frightened
• Cats will purr if they are ill

Meow
We often hear a cat meowing when wanting attention, e.g. looking food. A louder meow sound, which often sounds more like screaming, can be heard when a cat is fighting or before mating.

The posture of a cat can reflect a cat’s mood!

A Happy Cat
A relaxed cat will let its eyelids rest half-closed. Its ears will point slightly forward and outward. A happy cat will greet its owner with an erect tail with the tail tip bent forward.

Passive Submission
When a cat rolls to one side from a crouched posture it signals passive submission. A frightened/submissive cat will have its tail low. A submissive cat will look away from the offender.

Defensive Cat
When a cat feels threatened its eyes will dilate. Ears will be flatten to protect them from attack. A defensive cat will arch its back up to make itself look bigger. Its tail will be arched and bristled

Aggressive Cat
An aggressive cat will often put its ears back and hiss or growl at the intruder. It may position itself to look like it is ready to pounce or it may roll on its back with its teeth and claws displayed ready to fight. An aggressive cat’s tail will be straight and bristled. When the tail thrashes from side to side it is a sign it is about to attack.