Why Do Cats Hiss?
If you own a cat, the chances are at some point you will have heard them hiss. It can be quite a surprise when you hear it, especially for owners of cats who seem to be docile. But, why do cats hiss? And what are they trying to communicate when they choose to hiss?
There are many different reasons why cats will hiss, and the hisses will mean different things depending on who they are hissing at. In this article, we will shed some light on what your cat's hisses mean when they are aimed at you, other cats, at dogs, or what hisses mean when playing. Cats can either be very vocal, or almost silent. However, much the same as other animals, the noises they make will all mean something. Just because they don’t speak a language does not mean that they will not communicate with you.
Cats will convey messages not through speech, but by other forms of audible noises and body language. Knowing your cat's cues will put you on the right path to ensuring that they are happy and getting exactly what they want.
Key Takeaways
Cats hiss to communicate discomfort or threat:
Whether it's at other cats, people, or dogs, hissing is usually a sign that a cat feels threatened, defensive, or agitated. It's their way of saying, "Back off!"
Cats may hiss during play:
Sometimes, hissing can happen during play, especially with other cats. In this context, it's often just part of the play-fighting behavior and not a sign of real aggression.
Respect a hissing cat's space:
If your cat hisses at you, it could mean they're feeling unwell or just want to be left alone. It's important to respect their boundaries and give them space when they hiss.
Why do cats hiss at each other?
Perhaps the most common time you will hear a cat hiss is at other cats. This can be in the home if you own more than one cat, or will often take place at night in the street if cats are let out at night. The majority of the time, cats will hiss at each other to show that they are dominant, and it is purely hierarchical. When cats are out at night, they may encounter other cats. To show that they are ‘dominant’ over the other cat, they may choose to hiss.
This hiss can also be a warning to the other cat that they are feeling aggressive and to not come too close, in much the same way as a human shows aggressive body language when they feel threatened. Cats are highly territorial and have certain areas that they will regard as theirs. When another cat encroaches on its territory a cat will become defensive and may use a hiss as a warning sign. The other cat will often hiss back and if one does not back down then a fight may ensue. This is commonplace for stray cats and cats that go out at night, and many cats will even return home in the morning with marks, scars, and even fur missing from their escapades the night before.
Why do cats hiss at people?
Cats will not only hiss at other cats, they may even hiss at their owners. If your cat has ever hissed at you, it can be quite confusing as to what they are actually trying to communicate to you. The hiss can mean different things and is completely dependent on what situation you are in.
As mentioned, cats are also incredibly territorial. This can explain why your cat may hiss at people that they do not recognise when they enter your home. A stranger in the house will trigger the cat to become defensive, which may show itself in the form of a hiss. If your cat is hissing at you in another scenario, or if your cat does not let you get close, this may be a sign that something is wrong. They may be injured, or they may be feeling under the weather.
Why do cats hiss at dogs?
A rivalry as old as time, cats vs. dogs has been a debate that has raged since people began keeping pets. But, do cats and dogs actually get along? Is there any truth to the theory that has been the theme of countless TV shows, movies, and books? Well, you may have seen your cat hissing at your own dog or dogs that they may come across. Again, your cat will only be hissing at dogs if they feel threatened, or if they feel that they are encroaching on their territory.
The myth that dogs and cats cannot coexist is not actually entirely accurate. There is nothing ingrained in the psyche of a cat or a dog that tells them to dislike each other. The fact of the matter is that if they are given enough time to become comfortable with one another then a dog and a cat will get along perfectly. A lot of homes in the UK actually have both cats and dogs as pets.
If you introduce a dog into a home with cats, it may take some time before they become acclimatised to one another. If your cat continues to hiss at your dog after having lived with them for a while you may need to reintroduce them to one another. To do this effectively you will need to separate them for some time. Relax them by giving them food or letting them sleep, and then simply reintroduce them to one another by bringing them back together.
Why do cats hiss when playing?
When a cat plays it may make many different noises, including hissing. This however does not mean that they are getting aggressive, especially when they are playing with other cats. When a cat hisses whilst playing, it may in fact be mimicking the sounds that they would make if they were fighting. This is a form of play fighting. This practice is especially common in younger cats and kittens who are still learning the basics of behaviour.
Often, the cat they are playing with will take this social cue as a form of play fighting as the hissing cat’s mannerisms may not change. Should the play fighting go too far, a cat may hiss seriously. The other cat will often realise that this has turned serious as behaviour will change.
In summary, cats will often hiss when they feel anxious, agitated, or defensive. However, they may be hissing as a form of play, but it will be obvious when this is the case. If your cat begins to hiss at you, give it the time and respect they want as they may be prewarning you that they are not happy.