by D. F. Mackwood

Created on: January 16, 2009   Last Updated: January 27, 2009

Cats uninhibitedly communicate their wants, needs and feelings to their human companions. Understanding cats' language produces a mutually agreeable coexistence between human and cat.

So, why do cats purr? Generally, purring indicates contentment, happiness and unconditional love. Newborn kittens begin purring instinctively as they nurse, in order to let their mother know that they are happy and well; their mother purrs in return to reassure her kittens that she loves them. Kneading often accompanies happy purrs, as nursing kittens knead the mother's belly to keep the milk flowing. For that reason, cat owners learn quickly to keep their cats' front claws clipped or (for indoor-only cats) to have them surgically removed.

However, cats will also purr when sick, injured, dying or experiencing something traumatic, such as giving birth. At these times, purring becomes as a soothing mantra. The unique vibration of a cat's purr matches the exact frequency that stimulates bone growth and a purring cat reduces a person's stress level and blood pressure, making cats excellent therapy animals in nursing homes and hospitals.

Once their eyes open and they have squeaked their first meow, cats may become very vocal. At times, they may even seem to imitate human speech and a two-syllable meow may sound like, "ma-ma." Cats' meows vary in intensity, tone and timber, depending on what they are trying to communicate. A greeting or cry for attention may be a trilling sound or excited chattering, as the cat circles one's legs. Wanting or needing something produces a persistent meowing, usually accompanied by the cat going to the area of need or want, such as the door ("I want outside!") or the refrigerator ("Got milk?"). Polite cats may ask permission for something, their meows sounding like questions. Sharp, loud meows indicate distress ("I need help NOW!"). Confused or frustrated cats, such as females in heat, will meow incessantly while appearing lost.

Being the most recently domesticated of human pets, house cats retain their wildcat instincts and independence. While humans may consider themselves as owners, cats do not understand the concept. They choose to be with their human companions, desiring to coexist harmoniously. The better humans understand what their cats are saying, the stronger their bond.

Learn more about this author, D. F. Mackwood.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.