Cat Vocalizations and What They Mean

Summary

In this video, Jackson Galaxy, also known as the 'Cat Daddy,' dives into the fascinating world of cat vocalizations. He explains the meanings behind common cat sounds like meows, purrs, trills, and hisses, emphasizing how these vocalizations communicate a range of emotions from happiness to distress. Galaxy also discusses how individual cats may use these sounds differently, based on their experiences and development. With a blend of humor and expertise, he encourages cat owners to understand their cats' unique vocalizations to build a deeper bond and improve their relationship with their feline companions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cats have over 100 vocalizations, much more than dogs who have around 10.
• 😀 The most common vocalization, the 'meow', is used primarily towards humans and not other cats.
• 😀 A cat's 'meow' is often a learned behavior from their time with humans, signaling a need or request.
• 😀 Purring is not always an indication of happiness; it can also occur when a cat is in pain or stressed.
• 😀 The sound of purring is believed to have healing properties, including bone regeneration and wound healing.
• 😀 Chirps, trills, or cheeps are often used by female cats to communicate with their kittens, especially in a nurturing context.
• 😀 Cats often chatter at birds due to predatory excitement rather than attempting to imitate their sounds to lure prey.
• 😀 The caterwaul is a loud, distinct vocalization heard from unspayed female cats in heat to attract mates.
• 😀 Hissing is a defensive vocalization that signals a cat is scared or feeling threatened.
• 😀 The yowl is a plaintive cry, often associated with distress, pain, or a sign of a cat feeling cornered.
• 😀 Understanding your cat's vocalizations and how they apply to their unique experience is crucial for a better human-animal bond.

Q & A

Why do cats meow, and is it unique to them?

Cats meow primarily to humans, not other cats, and the sound is used to communicate a need, much like an infant calling for its mother. It is unique because adult cats generally stop meowing to other cats, using this vocalization solely for human interaction.

What is the purpose of a cat's purring, and can it be interpreted as a sign of happiness?

Purring can indicate happiness and contentment, but it also occurs in other situations such as when a cat is injured. The purring frequency can help in bone healing, and it may even serve a soothing purpose for the cat itself.

Why do some cats trill, chirp, or make similar sounds, and what does it signify?

Trilling, chirping, or similar sounds are often positive vocalizations used by female cats to communicate with their kittens, signaling them to follow or indicating feeding time. These sounds are typically associated with excitement or affection.

What does a cat’s chatter usually signify?

Chattering is generally a response to seeing prey, like a bird, through a window. It reflects the cat’s predatory excitement and the natural urge to hunt, even if they cannot actually reach the prey.

What is a caterwaul, and when might you hear it from your cat?

A caterwaul is a loud and distinctive sound that cats make when they are in heat. It is meant to attract mates and can be heard particularly from female cats before they go into heat. This sound can also prompt reactions from male cats.

What does a cat's hiss typically mean, and how should a person react to it?

A hiss is a defensive vocalization indicating fear or territorial threat. It is often accompanied by body language meant to ward off a perceived threat. If you hear a cat hiss, it is usually best to back away and give the cat space.

What is the difference between a growl and a yowl in cats?

A growl is a more defensive sound meant to indicate discontent or a warning, while a yowl is often a sign of distress or pain. A yowl might be heard when a cat feels cornered or is in severe discomfort.

How does the yowl of an older cat differ from a young cat’s yowl?

Older cats may yowl as a result of confusion or disorientation, especially at night, which can be linked to conditions like cat dementia. In contrast, younger cats may yowl when threatened or in pain, as a more direct communication of distress.

What is the significance of the sensitive phase in a kitten's development?

The sensitive phase, which occurs between 2 and 9 weeks old, is a critical period for kittens to learn social behaviors, including how to use vocalizations like meowing or purring. Kittens who are raised without their mothers or siblings may develop unique or atypical vocalizations.

Why should owners pay attention to the sounds their cats make?

Understanding your cat's sounds is essential for recognizing their needs and emotions. Each cat has individual vocalization patterns, and by learning them, owners can foster a more fulfilling relationship with their pets, responding to their needs appropriately.