its the only time they seem to make it
2007-01-09 19:14:16 · 16 answers · asked by monkeynuts 5 in Pets ➔ Cats
and own up - who gave me a thumbs down for this rather inoffensive question?!
2007-01-09 19:36:31 · update #1
By years of observation it looks to me like an imitation of the killing bite. I've seen my cats do this while watching birds, and even falling leaves. It seems that they are both excited and frustrated at the same time.
My observation was confirmed when I looked up the information for you. From the website:
http://cats.about.com/library/guest/ucfeature9b.htm
"Making that Chattering Noise While Watching Birds
Most cats make that quite distinctive teeth chattering sort of noise that seems reserved specifically for when they see birds or squirrels, whether outside or on television. Actually, that noise may be more of an instinct than we realize. Many feline behavior specialists have noted the similarity of that noise to the special neck bite that cats use in the wild designed to kill a bird or small rodent quickly and efficiently, before they have a chance to struggle. Young kittens and cubs in the wild have the opportunity to practice this special bite; house cats may just be showing their excitement at seeing potential prey, or possibly their frustration (with the excitement, too) in seeing potential prey that they cannot get to. Many times, you may notice that your cat’s tail is getting puffy, or is twitching in a special way that accompanies his special chattering noises."
It wasn't me that gave you a thumbs down. I gave you a thumbs up for such an inspiring question that I finally got around to looking up the info and satisfying my own curiosity. Thanks. :)
spazrats
http://spazrats.tripod.com
Crazy for cats
2007-01-09 20:14:04 · answer #1 · answered by spazrats 6 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Cat Stuttering
2017-01-12 19:10:33 · answer #2 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Isn't it the funniest thing, i think it's because they'll get overexcited with anticipation when their stalking their prey. My kitten just found out about the birds when i placed her on the window ledge for some sunshine a few days ago and now it's her fave spot.
2007-01-09 20:13:58 · answer #3 · answered by twiggysrevenge 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's the excitement of the kill, it's a lot like when a dog barks. The interesting thing is one time I was watching a wildlife show about lions and they were just about to attack a baby water buffalo and they were making the same sound.
2007-01-09 19:25:24 · answer #4 · answered by Aunt Bee 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I have owned two cats both male that do that little squeaky cooing at the birds kind of thing. Its adorable and I have never heard it used for anything else except when birds are around.
2007-01-09 21:07:03 · answer #5 · answered by LS 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It is quite amusing watching a cat chatter at birds. The only reson they sound that way they are very excited. They even chatter at squirls. It doesn't mean anything is wrong with them,they are just real excited.
2007-01-09 19:45:42 · answer #6 · answered by skeeter671 1 · 2⤊ 1⤋
I think it is cute and funny when my cat does this. I dont know why they do it apart from them getting so excited about the bird. We make funny noises when we get excited too, so I guess it is just natural.
2007-01-09 21:23:06 · answer #7 · answered by karen 2 · 0⤊ 2⤋
mine does it too...lol then after the bird disapears he then licks his chops like he just ate that bird... then my other cat will jump at windows tryin to get to the birdhe will even jump at shadows when the blinds are down!! lol its funny cuz he actually thinks he can get to that bird!!!
2007-01-09 19:25:39 · answer #8 · answered by candyas 3 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Lol. That's funny, I've noticed it too.
I guess it's just their salivary glands starting to get worked up.
2007-01-09 19:17:08 · answer #9 · answered by catwomanmeeeeow 6 · 2⤊ 2⤋
I believe they are trying to talk to the birds. "Hey birds, come here I am your friend", "Do you want to play?"
2007-01-09 19:19:44 · answer #10 · answered by Dude 4 · 2⤊ 2⤋