Top 3 Reasons Why Cats Make Hisses and Growls

Distinguishing the Hisses of Cats

1. Comfort and Joy

When a cat is gently petted by its owner, it often feels a deep sense of comfort and happiness, emitting a rhythmic and gentle purr. This purring is a sign of the cat's contentment and appreciation for the owner's touch. If the cat not only purrs softly but also continuously rubs its head or body against the owner, it's a clear indication that the cat is seeking attention and playtime.

Additionally, kittens often purr while suckling milk from their mother, signifying their enjoyment and a way to communicate their feelings to her. Purring is a form of communication between cats, and this method of interaction continues even as they grow older.

2. SelfCuring

Cats may also purr when they are in pain or fear. When a cat is upset or in pain, it may emit a hissing sound. In such cases, the owner should pay close attention to the cat for any signs of discomfort. If the cat closes its eyes and snorts while being petted, but then avoids the touch and continues to snore in another spot, it's a sign that the cat is not in a good mood. It's best for the owner to give the cat some alone time without打扰.

Research suggests that a cat's purr, with frequencies between 20 to 140 Hz, can have healing effects on the cat's body and promote bone development. Therefore, when a cat feels uncomfortable, it uses purring as a means of selfhealing. Purring stimulates the cat's nervous system to secrete hormones that can alleviate pain, helping the cat recover from injuries or illnesses.

3. Respiratory Issues

If a cat continuously purrs and the sound is accompanied by other noises, it may indicate respiratory problems. The constant snoring could be due to breathing difficulties caused by respiratory diseases.

Owners should observe if the cat is sneezing or has a runny nose. If these symptoms are present, the cat's snoring is likely due to respiratory discomfort. If there are no symptoms of sneezing or a runny nose but the breathing is accompanied by a sharp sound, it suggests a problem with the trachea, and the cat should be taken to a veterinarian for examination and treatment.

Pet Doctor's Tip: Shortnosed cats, such as Persians and Himalayans, may naturally snore more due to their respiratory system's structure. However, this is normal for them. To understand why a cat is snoring, it's important to consider the context, behavior, and breed of the cat. If owners are attentive and wellacquainted with their pets, they are more likely to accurately assess the situation.