Most cat owner will insist that their cats understand them when they talk, particularly when they give them a command. Others will go so far as to insist that their cat talks back after being addressed. Neither of these scenarios are completely beyond the realm of reality.

We know that cats are able to communicate or talk to each other. They use not only sounds, but also scents and body language to get their message across to each other and other animals.

Experts have documented around sixty different sounds that cats have made. These include everything from a soft purr, to a hiss or a wail. Using their voice box, cats change the pitch and tone of these vocalizations. Scientists also think that sometimes the purring sounds are generated from vibrations in the blood vessels of the chest wall. By speeding up the flow of blood, the cat is able to produce the motor-like vibrations that are often taken for a sign of contentment.

Cats also talk to their owners using various body parts. If a cat is happy with his world, he will lie on his chest with lowered eyelids. If he’s feeling particularly frisky and wants to play, he may roll over and swat his paw in the air. Cats also indicate fright and anger with body language.  A rapidly swishing tail, extended claws, or a direct stare may all be signs of trouble.

Cats also communicate using odors, but this is mostly to get a message across to other animals. Cats have scent glands and use them to mark their territory by rubbing against people or other objects. When mating a tomcat will spray urine to signal his territory and keep other cats away.

The next time a cat speaks, listen very carefully. Through a hiss, growl, or scream, it may have something very important to say. Just because the cat is silent, however, that doesn’t mean it isn’t trying to give you a message. That rubbing on your calf may just be a very special cat sign for “I love you.”