Cats are known for their wide range of vocalizations, each of which communicates something different. One such vocalization that often puzzles cat owners is growling. But why do cats growl? Let’s delve into this and understand the reasons behind this behavior and how owners should respond.
Understanding Cat Growling
Cat growling is a sound produced with the mouth open that usually communicates a negative emotion. The mouth usually isn’t as wide-open during growling as with other sounds like snarling, yowling, or howling. Feline growling is used in offensive and defensive interactions, among cats and toward people and other pets.
Reasons Cats Growl
A Warning Sign to Back Off: The growl can signify a warning to back off. Hissing and growling are usually indicative of your cat’s negative feeling, which might be triggered by anxiety from a stranger entering your home, annoyance with a certain situation, or fear from insecurity.
Territorial Protection of Their Core Area: Cats are particularly territorial. Territories are vigorously guarded with offensive and hostile behaviors displayed toward trespassers in order to protect the resources within. This is communicated through vocalizations like growling, hissing, and yowling, as well as scratching and biting, especially if the cat is unable to avoid the situation or person and flee to a safe place.
Pain: If your cat is in pain, it might growl as a way to communicate its discomfort. This could be due to an injury, an illness, or even old age. If you notice your cat growling when you touch a specific area, it’s best to consult with a vet immediately.
Fear: Cats may also growl when they are scared. This could be due to a new environment, a new person or pet, or a sudden loud noise. It’s important to identify the source of the fear and try to remove it if possible.
Aggression: Growling can be a sign of aggression in cats. If your cat is growling at another pet or person, it’s best to separate them and give your cat some space.
Irritation: Sometimes, cats may growl simply because they are irritated. This could be due to being disturbed during a nap, being handled too much, or not liking a certain situation.
How to Respond to a Growling Cat
If your cat is growling, it’s important to give it some space. Do not try to pet or comfort your cat as this may lead to aggression. Instead, try to identify the cause of the growling and address it if possible. If the growling continues or if your cat seems to be in pain, it’s best to consult with a vet.
Conclusion
Understanding why your cat is growling can help you better care for your feline friend. It’s important to remember that growling is a form of communication for cats, and it’s our job as cat owners to try and understand what they are trying to tell us. Always consult with a vet if you’re unsure about your cat’s behavior. After all, a healthy cat is a happy cat!
