Cats are cuddily, too. There is nothing nicer than snuggling up to a contented, purring kitty
at the end of a hard day. Cats - properly trained and socialized - have very little negative
impact on a home. With the right kind of relationship with you there is no need for "little
accidents," furniture damage or any kind of behavior that would upset even the most
forgiving owner.
Purring is just one of the many different ways by which cats communicate. And although
experts seem to be constantly debating all the hows and whys of purring, any cat owner
will tell you that it is definitely the sound of a contented kitty.
*The Meow*
As a general rule, meows can mean many things. They can be loud and
demanding - complaints that dinner is late or than the door to the litter box is
closed. Meows can be short ans sweet, an affectionate "thank you for just
being a friend." Tiny meows are carryovers from kitchenhood. Cats use this
very effective ploy to get what they want. Most of us cannot ignore that
pitiful little mew that pleads for a treat or a simple fussing. It isn't all that
unusual in human society, either.
*The Yowl*
At the other end of the wide vocal range is that out-and-out yowl that grates
on the ears and the nerve endings. It a sound that gives a whole new meaning
to the message, "I want it now!"
*The Screech*
That fighting screech is a sound that pierces your very soul. If you have ever
heard cats fighting, you'll remember that high pitched banshee wail that is
designed to scare off any opponent - as well as startle you wide awake, heart
pounding in the middle of the night. If a cat doesn't retreat from the face
off, the caterwauling can go on for hours. It is a sound that could be an
energizing courage - mustering gambit for the cat in much the same way that
an exponent of a martial art yells as he delivers a blow.
*Hissing*
Hissing is another unmistakable sound. When you hear that, you know your cat is telling you
that she means business and you'd better back off, at least for the time being. Hissing is
the cat's way of letting the world know that trouble lies waiting. "I'm waiting for trouble,"
it translates, "so you'd better not mess around!"
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