by Daniel J. Gansle

Created on: February 10, 2009

How well do you know your cat? When your cat curls her tail or hunches her back, do you know what she is saying?

Like us human beings, cats communicate in a variety of ways both verbally and non-verbally. They may flick their tail when agitated; growl when they see a bird; or hiss to express derision and to tell the offender to back off.

Your cat's purring and meowing behavior is also a sign that she is trying to tell you something. It may be something good, but it could also be something bad.

This article looks at cat behavior and explains what your cat may be telling you, and it may be completely different than what you think.

What Cats Are Saying When They Purr

The unique purring behavior of cats has eluded scientists and veterinarians as to why it happens and where it comes from.

Common thought says a cat's purr indicates contentment. And that seems to make sense, for purring usually comes quickly when the cat is stroked by its owner or some tasty catnip is in the vacinity. Another thought is that purring indicates to the cat's close companions that he or she is safe and healthy.

Cats may purr just before eating, or while chasing around a new toy mouse. Contrarily, cats have also been known to purr when in a state of agitation or nervousness. So while there are several reasons why a cat may purr, there is no one definitive answer.

What Cats Are Saying When They Meow

Over time, cat owners can begin to understand and appreciate the complexity of their cat's meowing behavior. A cat expresses himself or herself vocally in over a dozen types of meows, perhaps even more. For example, the cat may utter a half-meow half-growl with big eyes fixated on a feathery bird in a nearby tree.

A long deep meow may mean kitty wants to play. A cat's short, broken, high-pitched meow may mean he or she is hungry and wants to be fed, or excitement over getting a taste of canned tuna or milk.

A long, loud meow heard throughout the neighborhood may be an indicator of a female cat in heat trying to attract a mate. And a sudden loud, screechy meow may be the cat telling you, "Ouch! You've just stepped on my tail!"

Cats are highly social animals. Over thousands of years, these amazing mammals have developed complex means of communication. Once cat owners understand what their cat is saying to them and how the cat is expressing it, they develop a greater appreciation for these playful, fun, occasionally feisty pets.

Learn more about this author, Daniel J. Gansle.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.