Unlock the secrets of cat sound: name recognition, dangerous noises. Expert vet-approved guide
Table of Contents
Introduction
Cats can be inscrutable beings, and many humans find themselves scratching their heads after one of the many vocalizations that can come from a cat. While most of the articles cover the basics of meowing and purring, few discuss the subtleties of feline-feline communication.
Did you know cats can make upwards of 21 different cat sound, some rarely mentioned? In this article, we’ll delve into the science behind cat sounds, dispel myths, and answer burning questions like “Do cats know their names?” and “What cat sounds should concern you?” Using both research and expert opinions, this guide will allow you to know your kitty like never before.
How Many Sound Do Cats Have?
The number of cat sound evolutions cats make is a popular topic because of how high a number that is. Although domestic cats are noted for vocal flexibility, studies show their range is more wide than you might think:
- 16–21 different cat sounds: A groundbreaking 1944 study by the animal behaviourist Mildred Moelk identified 16 vocalizations, but more recent research observes as many as 21, depending on breed and context.
- Wild vs. Domestic Cats: While wild cats (such as lions) typically rely on growls and roars to communicate over long distances, domestic cats developed a wider variety of sounds to better communicate with people.
Why So Many Sounds?
Cats evolved complicated speech to control humans. Cats use a high-frequency “solicitation purr” (not unlike a baby’s cry) embedded in their vocalizations to elicit human caregiving instincts, according to a 2009 study in Current Biology.
The Cat Sounds Your Kitten Will Make: The Sounds Explained
To help decipher your cat’s language, here’s a comprehensive guide to their repertoire of “words”:
| Sound | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Meow | General communication (varies by pitch) | Greeting, hunger, or attention-seeking |
| Purr | Contentment or self-soothing | Relaxation, stress, or pain |
| Trill/Chirp | Friendly greeting or excitement | Seeing birds or welcoming a human |
| Hiss/Growl | Fear, aggression, or territorial defense | Confrontation with other animals |
| Caterwaul | Mating call or distress | Unspayed females in heat |
| Chattering | Frustration or predatory excitement | Watching prey they can’t reach |
Lesser-Known Cat Sound
- Murmur: A quiet, closed-mouth sound used between bonded cats.
- Pain Shriek: A loud, high-pitched cry that denotes severe discomfort (a.k.a. stepping on a tail).
Everything You Need to Know About Cat Vocalizations
1. Cats Mimic Human Infants
A study from the University of Sussex found that cats adapt the pitch and tone of their meows, in a similar way that human babies do, to elicit attention from their owners. This manipulation tactic is most featured in cats with very vigilant humans.
2. Silent Meows Are Not Always Love Marks
Cats give “silent meows,” opening their mouths to the sound that doesn’t come. Although it’s often attributed to sweetness, it may indicate hearing loss or throat problems in older felines.
3. Breed-Specific Vocal Traits
- Siamese Cats: Loud and frequent vocalizations.
- Maine Coons: More likely to “trill” than meow.
Cat Noises That Should Worry You: When to Call the Vet
Most sounds are harmless, though—and these could signal health problems:
1. Wheezing or Coughing: Can imply asthma or respiratory infections.
2. Abnormal Vocalization: Often seen in older cats with cognitive dysfunction.
3. Unprovoked Growling/Hissing: May be a sign of pain (e.g., arthritis)
4. Changes in Vocal Patterns: Sudden hoarseness may point to laryngeal disease.
An article from 2016 published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery associated the prolonged yowling of older cats with either hyperthyroidism or hypertension.
Do Cats Know Their Names? Science Weighs In
Yes, but with caveats. A landmark 2019 study published in Scientific Reports tested 78 cats and concluded that they recognize their names by telling them apart from phonetically similar words. But their answer is based on:
- Classical Conditioning: Cats are more likely to respond to a cue if it is trained using treats or play.
- Tone Matters: You get a better response with a high-pitched, sing-song tone.
Conclusion
Learning what the various cat sound mean can strengthen the bond between mankind and felines. From the plaintive trill of a satisfied Maine Coon to the shrill yowl of a cat in distress, they reveal their emotional landscape through their unique sound. By listening and tuning into these cues, you can ensure your cat feels heard and cared for.
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