Cats may not be able to communicate with us using words like humans do, but they have their own unique way of “talking” to us. Studies show that cats can clearly express their preferences through body language, and this form of communication is easy to observe and understand. Some studies even suggest that cats can understand certain words humans say and respond appropriately! In other words, while humans communicate with words, cats “speak” through their body language.
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How Cats Greet You
Cats are quite skilled at greeting humans, though not with words—rather, they communicate through rich body language. For example, the purring sound: Cats often greet people with a low purring sound, which typically signifies happiness and contentment. When a cat purrs, it’s like it’s smiling and saying “hello” to you! Another greeting gesture is gentle rubbing: Cats may greet you by rubbing their body against you, like using their head to nuzzle your legs. This behavior serves two purposes: first, to establish intimacy, and second, to release pheromones, marking you as part of their territory. It’s a friendly way of communicating. Lastly, tail flicking: A cat might raise its tail upright and give it a slight twitch when greeting a familiar person.
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Do Cats Talk to Each Other?
Cats use body language and different vocalizations to communicate with one another, such as regular meowing, purring, hissing, and growling when they’re unhappy. In addition to vocalizations, cats can also communicate through the scent of urine or facial pheromones. In the wild, many cats communicate with each other this way. When two cats meet for the first time, they may approach each other and sniff each other’s faces. If they don’t like each other’s scent, one might arch its back, puff up its fur, and put its ears back. However, when meeting a familiar cat, they may greet each other by rubbing their bodies together. Once they confirm there’s no threat and the other cat is friendly, they might even lick each other’s fur as a sign of friendship.
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Can Cats Learn Simple “Phrases”?
Some people say, “My cat calls me ‘mom,’” when before, it never did. This isn’t uncommon at all. In fact, cats can learn through “repeated listening” when you say certain words or phrases over and over in front of them. For example, they can understand simple phrases and even mimic them. If you often say “treat” while offering a tasty snack, your cat will learn what “treat” means. The next time you say it, your cat may come running from across the room to find you. Some studies show that a cat’s comprehension is roughly equivalent to that of a 2-3 year-old child, meaning they can understand and learn some information to a certain extent.
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Do Cats Like People Talking to Them?
Most cats actually enjoy when people talk to them because they recognize it as a form of communication. Talking to your cat helps strengthen the bond of trust between you. The cat understands you’re interacting with it. Additionally, it stimulates their auditory system, allowing them to become familiar with your voice, which brings them joy. So, if you have time at home, chatting with your cat can definitely enhance your relationship!
Cats can’t speak like humans, but they have other ways of communicating with us. Cats use different sounds to express their emotions and rely on body language to convey their needs. If you can understand the way your cat “talks,” you’ll be able to live more harmoniously with them.
