Throughout the day, your cat makes many different sounds. They might meow by their food bowl when they want food. Your kitty might also meow from the side of your bed, asking to jump up. Different sounds that cats make often have different meanings, much like words. Here are some of the noises your kitty might make and what they mean.

The classic meow has a lot of variation and differences in meaning. Often, it means that your cat wants some attention or their needs met. When cats purr, people generally think it is to express extreme contentment. While this is often the case, sometimes, cats purr to soothe themselves when stressed or in pain. Chirps and trills usually sound like rolling r’s. Your kitty might make this sound because they want you to follow them. However, sometimes your kitty is saying that they appreciate you. For example, you might have just given them their favorite treat. You might hear chattering or twittering bird-like noises when your kitty is watching birds or other animals like chipmunks or squirrels.

Hissing and growling are a sign that your kitty is not happy. They want to be left alone, and when possible, you should give them some space. A yowl or howling noise can mean that an un-spayed or un-neutered cat wants to mate or, more commonly, they might be stuck somewhere and want to get out.