What is your cat trying to tell you?

• Meow. A greeting usually reserved toward humans. Cats quickly learn that we're a chatty species and the best way to get our attention is to vocalize.
• Purr. This motorboat-like sound is often associated with contentment. However, during a confrontation, a cat may purr to calm his opponent. Cats may also purr when anxious, probably as a self-soothing mechanism. Probably for that same reason, cats also have been known to purr when terminally ill or close to death.
• Mew. A sound usually used for location purposes between cats.
• Moan. An extended, mournful sound. Your cat may moan prior to vomiting. Elderly cats may also moan when disoriented, especially at night.
• Chirp. A cat may give this short sound when in anticipation of something desirable, like a meal.
• Chatter. A cat often chatters when excited at the sight of prey. You've probably heard your cat chatter while at the window watching birds.
• Trill. Similar to a chirp, but more musical. A happy sound.
• Hiss. A snake-like sound produced when the cat is on the defense. He opens his mouth, arches his tongue, and forces the air out quickly.
• Spit. A short, popping sound also used during defense. It usually accompanies the hiss.
• Growl. This low-pitched sound is produced with an open mouth and used as a warning signal. It can be either offensive or defensive.
• Snarl. Not really a sound, but it often accompanies growling. The cat curls his upper lip to expose his teeth as a warning.

For more about how cats communicate, check out my book, Starting From Scratch.