International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 1-8 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 2 with the aim of revealing this unique form of communication between cats and humans and their profound cognitive abilities. Through this understanding, humans can harmoniously coexist with cats, creating a closer and warmer home environment. 1 Cats’ Communication Methods Cats, as precious companions in human life, bring joy and closeness to people through their unique communication methods. In this mysterious world, cats express their emotions and intentions through various means, including vocalizations, olfaction, and physical contact. This review will deeply discuss cats’ vocal communication, including purring, meowing, growling, and hissing (Yeon et al., 2011), as well as other communication methods such as postures, olfaction, and tactile interactions, revealing their emotional world and means of communication. 1.1 Vocal communication Sound serves as a vital avenue for cat communication, with different sounds representing various emotions and needs (McComb et al., 2009). Through sound, cats can convey information without the need for words. Purring is one of the most comforting sounds cats produce, often evoking warmth and closeness. This sound is typically generated when a cat feels relaxed and content. When a cat curls up in its owner's embrace and softly purrs, it's expressing its happiness and comfort. Research indicates that purring occurs within a frequency range of 25 to 150 Hz, which may promote bone healing to some extent, making it a natural response in a cat's body. Meowing is one of the most common sounds cats make, and it serves as a primary means of communication with humans. Cats meow in specific contexts, such as when they need food, want to go outside, seek companionship, or express dissatisfaction. The pitch and tone of meowing can convey the cat's emotions and needs. When cats are hungry, their meows may be sharper and more frequent, while meowing may sound more lingering and melodious when they feel lonely. Growling is typically a sound cats make when they perceive a threat or harbor aggression. This sound is accompanied by behaviors such as puffing up their bodies, lowering their heads, and raising their fur, signifying their hostility and warning. Growling plays a significant role in feline social interactions, conveying intimidation during territorial disputes or resource conflicts, preventing conflicts from escalating. Hissing is a sound often produced when cats feel uncomfortable or frightened. It is usually accompanied by open mouths, revealing sharp canines (Figure 1), and may be accompanied by paw swatting on the ground to exaggerate their intimidating appearance. When cats feel uneasy or threatened, they may use hissing as a tactic to deter potential threats. Figure 1 A hissed cat Through vocal communication, cats can precisely convey their emotions and needs, building deep connections with humans and other cats. These sounds are not just a part of a cat's daily life but also provide a window for
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