Cats have a whole vocabulary, spoken in sounds, blinks, whiskers, and tail twitches that most humans miss.
This guide breaks it all down: how cats talk to each other, how they talk to you, and how you can actually talk back.
I spent hours combing through research, vet insights, and Reddit threads where cat owners swap stories about their chatty felines.
At the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what your furball is saying and how to reply in a way they understand.
TL;DR
- Cats have a secret code: from purrs and chirps to whisker shifts and tail signals.
- They talk to us differently than to each other: meows, blinks, bunts, and even belly-flops all carry meaning.
- Yes, you can talk back: with slow blinks, body language, and even apps or tools that “translate” their meows.
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How do cats speak to one another?
Cats may not sit around a table debating politics, but they do have a surprisingly rich vocabulary. They mix sounds, gestures, and even scents to get their point across.
Below are the main ways cats talk to one another, and what each one means:
- Trills and chirps
- Hisses
- Growls
- Yowls and howls
- Chattering
- Purrs
- Tail signals (upright, low, fluffed, lashing)
- Ear signals (forward, sideways, flattened)
- Slow blinking
- Head butting (bunting)
- Arching back
- Whisker signals (forward, pulled back)
- Rubbing bodies or faces
- Grooming each other (allogrooming)
- Scratching surfaces
- Urine marking
- Sleeping close or touching tails
Now let’s talk about each of them!
Trills and chirps
That short, bird-like sound you hear when your cat greets another cat? That’s a trill. It’s basically cat-speak for “hey, friend!” Trills and chirps are often used by mothers to call kittens or by cats inviting play.
Hisses
No mystery here, a hiss is the universal “back off!” signal. Cats use it to warn each other when their space, food, or comfort zone is being invaded.
Growls
Growling is deeper than hissing. It’s more of a “I mean business” warning between cats. You’ll usually hear it if two cats are sizing each other up and neither is willing to back down.
Yowls and howls
Long, drawn-out yowls are often territorial warnings. They say, “This is my turf, don’t come closer.” But they can also pop up during mating season as a kind of love song.
Chattering
Ever notice your cat chattering its teeth when bird-watching? That’s not a dental issue, it’s a frustrated hunting sound. When cats are together, chattering can be a way of saying, “I want that prey, but I can’t get it.”
Purrs
Purring isn’t always about being happy. Between cats, a purr can mean relaxation, reassurance, or even submission. Kittens purr to their mothers to say, “I’m okay.” Adults purr when grooming or resting close together.
Tail signals
Cats use their tails to communicate how they feel. The position and movement of a cat’s tail can show if it’s happy, relaxed, playful, scared, or angry. Understanding these tail signals helps you know what your cat is trying to say without a single meow.
- Upright tail: friendly greeting.
- Low tail: cautious or sad.
- Fluffed tail: fear or aggression.
- Lashing tail: irritation.
Ear signals
Cats also communicate a lot through their ears. The way a cat positions its ears can reveal its mood or focus. When the ears are facing forward, the cat is alert or curious. If they’re turned sideways or back, they might feel annoyed or unsure. Flattened ears usually mean fear or aggression.
Slow blinking
Slow blinking is one of the sweetest ways cats show trust and affection. When your cat looks at you and slowly closes its eyes, it’s like a gentle “I love you.” In cat language, slow blinking means they feel safe and comfortable around you. You can even try blinking slowly back; it’s a simple way to bond and let your cat know you care, too.
Head butting (bunting)
Head butting, also known as bunting, is your cat’s way of saying, “you’re part of my circle.” When a cat gently bumps its head against you, it’s marking you with its scent glands to show affection and familiarity. It’s a friendly gesture that means trust, comfort, and belonging.
Arching back
When a cat arches its back, the meaning depends on the situation. If the fur is puffed up and the cat looks tense, it’s a defensive reaction; it feels threatened and is trying to look bigger. But if the back is arched during a stretch, especially after a nap, it’s simply relaxing and loosening its muscles. Context is key: an arched back can mean fear or just a good stretch.
Whisker signals
A cat’s whiskers are more than just cute; they’re important communication tools. When whiskers are relaxed and pointing to the side, your cat is calm. If they’re pushed forward, it usually means curiosity or excitement, like when hunting or playing. Whiskers pulled back against the face can signal fear, stress, or aggression.
Rubbing bodies or aspects
When cats rub their bodies against each other, it’s a sign of friendship and trust. This behaviour helps them mix their scents, creating a shared group smell that strengthens their bond. You’ll often see cats that get along well rubbing heads, sides, or tails. It’s their way of greeting each other and showing they’re part of the same social group.
Grooming each other (allogrooming)
When cats groom each other, it shows a clear sign of affection and social bonding. This behaviour helps strengthen relationships between cats that trust one another. They often focus on areas that are hard to reach, like the head and neck.
Beyond cleanliness, allogrooming also helps reduce tension and maintain harmony within their group. It’s a cat’s way of saying, “We’re family”.
Scratching surfaces
When cats scratch surfaces, it’s not just about sharpening their claws. Scratching helps them mark territory through both visual marks and scent glands in their paws. It’s also a way to stretch their muscles and relieve stress. You’ll often see cats scratch after waking up or when they’re feeling playful or excited. It’s natural behaviour that keeps them healthy and confident.
If you don’t want your cats to scratch your furniture or other surfaces, check out our list of the best cat deterrent sprays.
Urine marking
Urine marking is a way cats communicate through scent. Instead of using the litter box, a cat sprays small amounts of urine on vertical surfaces to mark territory or signal things like stress, mating readiness, or the presence of other cats. It’s their way of saying, “This space is mine.”
While it’s normal behaviour, frequent urine marking can also mean your cat feels anxious or threatened and may need a calmer environment.
Sleeping close or touching tails
When cats sleep close together or touch tails, it’s a strong sign of trust and affection. Cats are naturally cautious, so choosing to rest near another cat or letting their tails intertwine means they feel completely safe and bonded.
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How do cats communicate with humans, and how can you talk back?
Here are some signals to note:
- Meowing
- Purring
- Hissing
- Growling
- Chattering
- Slow blinking
- Head butting
- Kneading
- Tail signals
- Ear signals
- Following you around
- Lying belly-up
Meowing
Meowing is one of the main ways cats communicate with humans. Unlike with cats, they use meows mainly to get our attention or express needs, like hunger, greeting, or wanting to play. The tone, pitch, and frequency of a meow can tell you a lot about what your cat wants. Paying attention to these variations helps you understand what your feline friend is trying to say.
Purring
Purring is often a cat’s way of showing contentment and comfort. You’ll usually hear it when they’re relaxed, being petted, or cuddling. However, cats may also purr when they’re anxious, in pain, or trying to soothe themselves. It’s a versatile sound that can mean happiness or self-calming, depending on the situation.
To respond to this, enjoy if relaxed, but if paired with tension or hiding, give space and monitor.
Hissing
Hissing is a clear warning signal in cat communication. It usually means your cat feels scared, threatened, or defensive. The sound, often paired with an arched back or puffed-up fur, is meant to make the cat look and sound more intimidating. When a cat hisses, it’s best to give it space and let it calm down before trying to approach.
Growling
Growling is another strong warning sign from a cat. It’s their way of saying “stay away” when they feel angry, frightened, or protective. You’ll often hear growling during conflicts with other animals or when a cat feels cornered. The low, rumbling sound is a clear signal that the cat wants to be left alone until it feels safe again.
Chattering
Chattering is a unique sound cats make, often when they’re watching birds or small animals through a window. It’s a mix of quick clicks or chirps, usually showing excitement, frustration, or hunting instinct. Some experts think it’s a cat’s way of mimicking prey sounds, while others see it as a release of energy when they can’t actually chase what they see.
When your cat chatters, offer hunting play (wand toys), window perches, and puzzle feeders.
Slow blinking
Slow blinking is a cat’s way of showing trust and affection toward humans. When your cat looks at you and slowly closes its eyes, it’s saying it feels safe and relaxed around you. You can return the gesture by blinking slowly back; it’s like sharing a calm, silent “I love you” in cat language.
Head-butting (Bunting)
Head-butting, or bunting, is one of the most affectionate ways cats communicate with humans. When your cat gently bumps its head against you, it’s marking you with its scent and showing that it trusts you.
This behaviour is a sign of bonding and familiarity; your cat is basically saying, “You’re part of my family.” Let them bunt; gentle cheek rubs are usually welcome.
Kneading
Kneading, often called “making biscuits,” is when a cat rhythmically presses its paws into a soft surface like a blanket or you. This behaviour starts in kittenhood, when they knead their mother to stimulate milk flow. Adult cats keep doing it as a sign of comfort, contentment, and affection.
If your cat kneads you, it’s showing that it feels safe and happy in your presence.
Tail signals (upright, low, fluffed, lashing)
A cat’s tail is a powerful communication tool. A high, upright tail usually signals happiness and confidence, while a tail tucked between the legs shows fear or submission. Quick flicks or swishes can indicate irritation or excitement, and a puffed-up tail means the cat feels threatened and is trying to look bigger.
- Upright: friendly greeting; tip-twitch: focused/hunting;
- Low/tucked: uneasy; lashing: irritated; fluffed: fear.
Ear signals (forward, sideways, flattened)
A cat’s ears reveal a lot about its mood. Ears pointing forward usually mean the cat is alert or curious. When the ears turn sideways or “airplane-style,” the cat may be feeling annoyed or uncertain. Flattened ears pressed against the head signal fear, stress, or aggression.
Following you around
When a cat follows you around, it’s a sign of trust and attachment. Cats don’t follow just anyone; they choose people they feel safe and comfortable with. This behaviour shows that your cat enjoys your company, wants to be near you, and may even be seeking attention, affection, or companionship.
Lying belly-up
When a cat lies on its back and shows its belly, it’s a sign of trust and comfort. The belly is a vulnerable area, so exposing it means your cat feels safe around you. While it can also be an invitation to play, not all cats want their bellies touched, so approach gently and watch their body language for cues.
What tools/apps can I use to communicate with my cats?
Not all of us are fluent in meows and tail flicks yet, and that’s where tech comes in.
From translation apps to smart collars and interactive cameras, there are plenty of tools designed to help you “speak cat.”
Here’s a quick list of the most useful ones:
- MeowTalk
- Human-to-Cat Translator App
- Cat Translator – Meow & Talk Simulator
- Human to Cat Translator (Android)
- FluentPet Talking Buttons / HexTiles
- Shazam Personifi AI Collar
- Petcube Cameras & Treat Dispensers
- Echo Show Drop-In
- Clicker Training
- Ultrasonic Whistle
Let’s break them down.
MeowTalk
An app that records your cat’s meows and attempts to translate them into human words.
How it works: Uses AI to analyse your cat’s vocalisations, then suggests what they might mean (e.g., “I’m hungry,” “I want to play”).
Where to get it: Available on iOS and Android app stores. https://www.meowtalk.app/
Human-to-Cat Translator App
A playful app that plays back human phrases in cat-like sounds.
How it works: You record your message, and it generates a “meow” version.
Where to get it: Found on both iOS and Android.
Cat Translator – Meow & Talk Simulator
A simulation app that lets you play cat sounds to interact with your pet.
How it works: Offers a library of meows, purrs, and hisses to see how your cat reacts.
Where to get it: Android-focused, available in Google Play.
Human to Cat Translator (Android)
Similar to the above, but Android-exclusive.
How it works: Lets you “talk back” to your cat with meows.
Where to get it: Google Play Store.
FluentPet Talking Buttons / HexTiles
These are programmable buttons your cat can step on to “speak.”
How it works: You record words like “food,” “play,” or “outside” on buttons. Cats learn to press the buttons to communicate needs.
Where to get it: Available online (FluentPet’s official store and Amazon).
Shazam Personifi AI Collar
A prototype smart collar that translates cat vocalisations in real time.
How it works: Detects meows and classifies them into categories like hunger, pain, or affection.
Where to get it: Still in limited release/prototype stage.
Petcube Cameras & Treat Dispensers
Interactive home cameras that let you see, talk to, and even toss treats to your cat remotely.
How it works: You can speak through your phone, hear your cat, and reward them with treats.
Where to get it: Available through Petcube’s website and major online retailers.
Echo Show Drop-In
Amazon’s Echo Show lets you “drop in” via video to see and talk to your pet.
How it works: Two-way audio/video makes it feel like you’re in the room.
Where to get it: Amazon store.
Clicker Training
Not an app, but a tool. A small clicker that helps reinforce behaviour.
How it works: You click every time your cat does the right action (e.g., coming when called), then reward them with treats.
Where to get it: Pet stores and online.
Ultrasonic Whistle
Special whistles designed for animal training.
How it works: Emits a sound inaudible to humans but clear to cats, used for recall training.
Where to get it: Widely available online.
How do cats interpret human body language?
Cats are expert readers of our movements. Long before they learn words, they pick up on posture, gestures, and even micro-expressions.
These body languages are;
- Direct eye contact
- Walking past them fast
- Reaching over their head
- Body language
Here’s how your body language comes across in “cat speak.”
Direct eye contact
To a cat, a hard stare feels like a challenge or even a threat. That’s why cats often approach the person in the room, ignoring them; they feel safer with people who don’t lock eyes.
Tip: If you want to look friendly, soften your gaze and use slow blinks instead.
Walking past them fast
Quick strides and sudden movements signal potential danger. Cats instinctively go on alert when someone rushes by.
Tip: Move more slowly around nervous cats; they’ll relax and trust you more.
Reaching over their head
From a cat’s view, a hand coming down from above feels like a predator swooping in. Many cats dislike being petted this way.
Tip: Instead, extend your hand at their level and let them sniff before petting around the cheeks or under the chin.
Body language: tone + posture combined
- Standing tall over them: Can read as intimidating.
- Crouching low, side-on posture: Feels less threatening, more inviting.
- Turning your back slightly: Signals trust; some cats even take it as permission to approach and rub.
Signs your cat is saying “not now”
Cats are sensitive and don’t always want interaction. The tricky part? They’ll tell you clearly if you know what to look for. Here are the most common ways they politely (or not so politely) decline attention:
- Flattened ears
- Tail lashing or thumping
- Swatting or batting your hand
- Turning away/walking off
- Growling or hissing
- Avoiding eye contact
Flattened ears
Pinned-back ears are your cat’s version of “nope, not in the mood.” It’s usually paired with a tense body or swishing tail.
Tail lashing or thumping
A tail flicking back and forth fast is a flashing red sign of irritation. Keep petting after this, and you’ll probably get swatted.
Swatting or batting your hand
Cats don’t always use their claws here. A quick paw slap says “stop.” If claws are out, the message is stronger.
Turning away / walking off
If your cat turns their head or gets up and leaves, that’s a very clear “conversation over.”
Growling or hissing
Vocal warnings are the last step before aggression. If your cat growls at you, stop whatever you’re doing immediately.
Avoiding eye contact
If they suddenly avert their eyes when you approach, it’s a subtle signal they don’t want engagement.
Key takeaway: Cats don’t bottle things up. They signal “not now” early; we just have to listen before it escalates.
How does your cat’s personality type affect how it communicates?
Just like people, cats have personalities that colour how they express themselves. A bold cat speaks a very different language from a shy one, and a territorial cat won’t use the same signals as a social butterfly.
Understanding your cat’s personality makes it easier to “translate” their behaviour and respond the right way.
Bold vs. shy cats
Bold cats:
They’ll stride right up, meow loudly, and rub against anyone in reach. They’re more likely to use direct communication, chirping at you for food, nudging you for pets, or even swatting if they’re irritated.
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How to respond: Engage them! Play, talk back, and give attention freely, but don’t ignore their signals when they’ve had enough.
Shy cats:
They keep communication subtle. Instead of meowing, they may sit quietly nearby, slow blink from a distance, or tap you lightly with a paw. Shy cats are masters of silent signals.
How to respond: Be patient. Let them set the pace, reward small interactions, and avoid looming or loud gestures that can overwhelm them.
Territorial vs. social cats
Territorial cats:
They mark spaces (scratching, scent rubbing, sometimes spraying). They’re more likely to growl or yowl to warn others away. Communication here is about ownership and boundaries.
How to respond: Respect their zones. Don’t force other cats or strangers into “their” areas too fast, and provide vertical space (like cat trees) so they can feel secure.
Social cats:
They thrive on group interaction. They’ll groom other cats, sleep curled up with companions, and follow their humans around constantly. Their communication is affectionate and bonding-focused.
How to respond: Encourage it! Play with them, offer lap time, or introduce them to new companions gradually. They’ll reward you with a constant connection.
How to Teach Your Cats to Communicate Better
Cats may not learn English, but they can learn to link sounds, gestures, and routines with meaning. With patience and consistency, you can actually build a two-way “language” with your cat. Here’s how:
1. Reinforce actions with specific sounds or words
Pick simple, consistent cues for everyday needs. For example:
- Say “dinner” every time you feed them.
- Use “come” when shaking treats.
Over time, your cat will connect the sound to the action.
2. Associate eye contact or slow blinks with rewards
Cats already use slow blinks as trust signals. You can train them to link that behaviour with good outcomes.
- Blink slowly at your cat, then toss a treat.
- Eventually, your cat may blink back when they want attention, their way of saying “hi, I’m here.”
3. Use hand signals + scent cues
Cats are visual and scent-driven.
- Teach them that a raised hand means “stay back” or a pointed finger means “follow.”
- Leave your scent (like worn clothing) in new spaces so they feel safe and learn to associate it with you.
Pro tip: Keep training sessions short (5 minutes max) and always end on a positive note with treats or play. Cats learn best through repetition and reward, not punishment.
Cats may not speak our language, but they’ve been whispering in signals all along, in their trills, tail flicks, head bumps, and even in the silence of a slow blink. Once you start paying attention, you’ll realise your cat has been “talking” to you every single day.
From meows tailored just for humans to body language fine-tuned for trust or warning, communication is the heart of your bond with your cat. The more you listen, the more they’ll “talk back.”
So here’s your challenge: next time your cat chirps at you or blinks slowly across the room, don’t ignore it. Blink back. Answer the meow. Notice the tail.
Your cat is waiting for a reply, and when you give it, you’ll both understand each other just a little more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean when a cat slowly blinks at you?
It’s a “cat kiss.” A slow blink means your cat trusts you and feels relaxed in your presence. Try blinking back to strengthen the bond.
How do I know if my cat is trying to communicate with me?
Look for patterns: meowing at certain times, following you, or signalling with tail/ears. If a behaviour repeats in specific contexts (like before meals), that’s communication.
Can I talk to my cat using body language?
Yes!
Slow blinks, crouching to their level, and offering your hand to sniff are all ways to “speak cat.” Avoid looming or staring too long, as those feel threatening.
How do cats communicate with each other without making sounds?
Mostly through body language and scent. Tail flicks, ear angles, rubbing, grooming, and scent marking all carry strong messages.
Why does my cat rub its head against me?
That’s bunting, a way of mixing scents. It’s their way of saying, “you’re part of my clan.”
What does it mean when a cat’s tail is twitching or upright?
- Upright tail = happy, friendly greeting.
- Twitching tip = focused (often hunting mode).
- Lashing tail = annoyed, time to stop petting.
Can cats understand human words or tone of voice?
They can learn to recognise words linked to actions (like “treat,” “outside”), but they respond more strongly to tone. Calm, higher-pitched tones are friendlier; harsh tones signal danger.
How can I tell if my cat is listening to me?
Watch the ears. If they swivel toward you, your cat is tuned in, even if they don’t move their body.
What kind of sounds do cats make when they’re happy vs. annoyed?
- Happy: purring, chirping, soft meows.
- Annoyed: growls, hisses, yowls, or silence paired with a tense posture.
Why does my cat purr when I’m not petting it?
Purring isn’t just for pleasure; cats also purr to self-soothe, reduce stress, or even when they’re in pain.
Is it okay to mimic my cat’s meow?
Yes. Many cats will meow back, and it can become a fun “conversation.” Just don’t mimic aggressive sounds like growls or hisses.
How do I build better communication with a shy or scared cat?
Give them space, avoid direct stares, use slow blinks, and reward small interactions with treats. Let them approach you on their own terms.
What’s the best way to greet a cat?
Offer your hand at their nose level, palm down. Let them sniff before you pet. If they rub against you, that’s a green light.
How do cats use scent to talk to each other?
Through rubbing, scratching, grooming, and sometimes spraying. Each action leaves a chemical “signature” that other cats can smell.
Can two cats from different households understand each other?
Yes, but it may take time. The basics (ears, tails, hisses) are universal, but scent differences can spark initial conflict until they adjust.
Are certain breeds more vocal or expressive than others?
Yes. Siamese, Bengal, and Oriental Shorthairs are famously chatty. Others, like Persians or British Shorthairs, tend to be quieter and use more body language.
What does it mean when a cat chirps or trills?
It’s usually a friendly greeting or a way to get your attention. Mother cats trill to kittens, and pets often trill when excited to see you.
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