Here's Why Some Cats Trill (And Some Don't)

ByAndrea Heckler, 10/04/2017

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Have you ever wondered why some cats will make that cute little chirping noise at you?

As any cat owner will know, felines are capable of so many more sounds than just a simple meow. But what exactly is that trilling noise that some of them make, and what makes them do it?

What Exactly Is That Chirping Noise?

Cats make this sort of trilling or chirping noise by pushing air through their vocal cords but keeping their mouths shut, so the air doesn't escape. It's a very unique sound, but it's one they have learned.

Not from humans or other animals, but from their mothers. The Humane Society explains that this is the sound mama cats use to get their little ones to pay attention to them or to follow them somewhere.

When they get older, cats will often use this sound as their own kind of communication tool, towards you and other humans or towards other cats.

So What Makes Them Trill, Instead Of Just Meow?

There can be a variety of reasons why our cats try to communicate with us with their many sounds, but it's believed that when they trill, they are using it similarly to how their mother did: they want to get your attention, or they want you to follow them somewhere.

If your cat is often around other felines, you might also see that they use it to socialize and communicate with each other.

The biggest known difference in use between the trill and the meow is the cat's mood. While they might meow to get your attention when they're happy, upset, annoyed, or any range of other emotions, it's believed that they will only chirp and trill when they're feeling positive feelings.

Why Doesn't My Cat Trill?

If you're concerned about your cat trilling too much or never trilling at all, don't worry: it's probably just their personality.

More social and attention-loving cats are likely to make this sound more often, whereas cats who are shy or quiet-mannered will probably not as often, or not at all.

So, does your cat trill or chirp? Let us know in the comments!

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