Why do cats 'chatter'?

Cats often produce a unique "chattering" sound, particularly when spotting prey. The reason behind this is still unclear. Cats typically use different vocalizations to communicate, such as meowing to draw human attention or hissing to express hostility toward other animals. However, the purpose of their chattering noise remains a mystery to both cat owners and researchers.

According to cat behaviorist Mikel Delgado, there's no definitive evidence that chattering serves as a communication tool with humans or other animals. Studying cats is challenging due to their independent nature, thus complicating attempts to explore this behavior scientifically. However, some cat owners and experts have proposed theories. One suggestion is that chattering indicates frustration—cats might be expressing a kind of "emotional release" upon seeing prey they can't reach, much like a person grumbles when annoyed. Alternatively, chattering could signify feline excitement rather than displeasure.

Another theory posits that cats might enhance their sense of smell by opening and closing their mouths, potentially directing airflow toward the vomeronasal or Jacobson's organ. This sensory organ acts as a second nose, helping cats detect particular chemicals.

A third hypothesis with some scientific background involves mimicking. It is believed by some that, like a margay—a small wild cat from South and Central America documented using calls resembling its prey to lure dog-like prey—domestic cats may mimic bird calls to entice their prey. However, aside from this singular observation in margays, little evidence of mimicry exists among other wild cat species.

Currently, understanding why cats chatter is still speculative. Delgado suggests that surveying cat owners about their observational experiences may provide additional insights into this intriguing behavior. Understanding more about wildcat ancestors is also essential to discern if chattering is a derived behavior or inherited. Thus, while the exact reason remains undetermined, combining cat owners' anecdotes with further research may someday unravel this adorable feline mystery.

Earlier, SSP wrote that scientists managed to replicate animal movements with striking accuracy.