We here at Creature Comforts of Charlotte Pet Sitting love our kitty clients! Some of them are much more vocal than others. Have you ever wondered what your cats are saying when they purr, meow, and hiss? What about kneading and rubbing their cheeks on your or an object?
Here are some reasons why your cats make the sounds they make 
Purring
Nearly everyone who has had the privilege of hearing a cat purr knows that it generally translates to something good. However, contrary to what you may have been taught to believe, purrs are not always positive. This sounds that warms your heart is made when the feline breathes in and out with quick pauses occurring between breaths. The purr is created by a separation in the vocal folds caused by built up pressure. It is actually a very complex process and you should feel special if a cat directs this type of communication in your direction.
Although purring is typically perceived as a sign of happiness or contentment, cats in pain will often purr when they are stressed as well, an act that remains a mystery.
Hissing
It’s no secret that hissing is a warning that you should take seriously; cat bites are not fun to deal with.
There are different variations of hisses as well. If you startle or upset a cat, you will often be faced with a mouth open hiss. This is common if you invade their space.
If a cat is extremely distraught or fearful, a scream is often released along with the hiss. When you hear cats fighting outside and low-pitched angry growls are present, this is another form of hiss.
Meow
Now for the most confusing vocalization of them all; the meow! No one will ever know what every meow means but if you are really in tune with your feline friend, you’ll begin to notice a pattern which will help you understand their needs.
Cats don’t have only one generic meow. If you pay attention, you will discover that your cat will make a different sound for food, attention, boredom, if he wants outside, etc. Cats are highly intelligent creatures; they are trying to teach you what they want if you are observant. Just as humans train dogs through consistent repetition, cats train humans with their communication…not all people pick up on their daily lessons though.
It is also interesting to note that cats rarely meow to one another; meows are reserved for their human companions! If you take the time to really get to know your cat, you will learn what exactly they are asking for, when they’re happy and when they are just plain frustrated.
Kneading
Do you have a cat that rubs their paws against you, like they are trying to scratch? That is called kneading. Cats knead when they see you as a mother figure, when cats are kittens, they do the same thing to their mother. Cats that knead trust you and love you as if you were their true parent.
Rubbing Cheeks Against You or an Object
My cat Lucy always rubs her cheeks against my hand, and sometimes against objects when she is walking by them. When cats rub their cheeks against you or an object, it is a sign of trust, that they don’t fear that person or object.
Learn to know what your cat is saying to you!!!