We’re here to translate the meows, purrs, and everything else that cats say into messages you can understand.

It can be difficult to understand cat communication! Purrs can have different meanings when they are paired with body postures. Do you know the differences between a chirp, a trill, and more? We’ll break down the most common vocalizations of cats so you can converse with your cat.

Meows

This is a classic! In our childhood picture books, we learned that adult cats meow mainly for us.

Wild adult cats, on the other hand, stop meowing and instead use body language to communicate. Domestic cats continue to meow so we can follow their conversation. Maybe our cats started talking back after we told them about the drama at work for the hundredth or more time …)

Meows are the sound that cats make to attract our attention. They may be a sign they want treats or their favorite toys that are stuck under your couch. The longer, more plaintive meows may indicate that the cat is in pain or just stepping on water. A meow is also a way to say “Hey!” or a friendly hello. Finally, you’re home!

As their hearing declines, you may also notice older cats turning up the volume on their meows to 11.

Purrs

This signature rumble soothes cats and their owners. Does anyone use recorded cat purrs instead of white noise, or is it just us? If your cat purrs while petting or curling up by your side, it’s a sign that they are happy.

Some cats also purr to soothe themselves. Your cat may purr like you might hum or murmur to yourself when doing something that causes you anxiety. Be aware of the nonverbal signals they give you. If their ears are pushed back or their body tensed, they’re likely worried about something.

Chirps, Trills

These vocalizations are the sweet sounds of a happy cat! Trills are a combination of meows and chirps. These sounds are often a way to greet someone or ask them to follow you.

Chattering

Have you ever heard a cat chattering? This sounds like a stuttering, abrupt series of short chirps. Once you hear it, the sound is very distinct.

The chattering usually occurs when your cat sees tempting prey but is stuck behind the glass and cannot reach it. Listen for chatter the next time your cat tries to claw through the glass to catch squirrels.

Yowls

The yowl sounds louder and is longer and more unhappily than the meow. The plaintive meows are your cat’s way of saying something is wrong. This can be caused by various things, from painful medical conditions or male or female cat’s howling mating call to plain old late-night boredom.

Hisses and Growls

Cats don’t hesitate to express their anger and do so with a variety of sounds. Growing, hissing, and spitting are all ways to tell that your cat didn’t agree to get a belly rub. Hissing is common in nervous cats and can occur when your cat feels threatened or scared. Growing and snarling is a territorial response to telling a stranger they’re not welcome on your cat’s territory.

Any sudden or unusually loud meowing is a warning sign! If you are concerned about your cat’s behavior, don’t hesitate to consult your veterinarian.

If you want to become a cat whisperer, these basic principles will help. You have many years to (unfortunately!) learn what your cat is trying to tell you when it meows you to clean its litter box.