What is a cat's "silent meow"? Explanation of its meaning and reasons

Silent meowing, have you heard of it?

It’s when a cat makes the motions of meowing, but no sound comes out. This adorable behavior has become a popular topic among cat lovers.

In fact, there are various meanings and reasons behind a cat's silent meow. In this article, we will explain what a silent meow means and what feelings might be hidden behind it.

Why do cats do a silent meow?

A "silent meow" is when a cat opens its mouth to meow, but no sound is produced. Sometimes, they may let out a small, raspy sound.

It is believed that this silent meow is the way kittens "talk" to their mothers when they want affection.

Why do they meow without making a sound?

In reality, cats are not creatures that use meowing to communicate with each other. They use their ears, tails, and body language to interact with their peers.

While there are various theories, it is said that they use high-frequency sounds that only other cats can hear so they won't be found by enemies.

Are they meowing for humans?

Cats have excellent hearing and can distinguish sounds in a wide range from 25 to 75,000 Hz.

Incidentally, humans can only hear up to about 16,000–20,000 Hz, so we cannot hear a cat's silent meow.

However, it is said that after they began living with humans, they started to meow in a pitch that we can hear. The prevailing theory is that cats are "meowing in a way that humans can hear."

The meaning behind a cat's silent meow

When a cat silent meows at its owner, it generally falls into four main meanings.

1. An expression of love

A silent meow as an expression of love is seen when they are being affectionate toward their favorite owner or a feline friend.

A silent meow while being held by their owner is a sign that the cat feels completely safe and happy. It is a manifestation of love for the owner. They might even feel relaxed, thinking of the owner as their mother.

2. A sign of trust

Sometimes, when you call your cat, they might answer with a silent meow. This definitely doesn't mean it's a bother to answer you.

Cats only silent meow at those they trust, such as their parents, siblings, or cat friends. It is because they trust their owner that they use this gesture.

3. Communication

You might also see a silent meow when a cat wants to request something from its owner.

If they stare at you and do a silent meow, it means they want your attention, want food or treats, or want to play.

4. Loneliness or anxiety

Cats may also use a silent meow when they feel anxious or lonely. You might also notice them pulling their ears back or wandering around.

How to respond to a cat's silent meow

When a cat does this to you, it's a sign of affection and trust. Try gently petting or holding them to engage in some physical bonding.

In cases where it's a request to play or for attention, it's good to accommodate them if possible, but be careful not to overfeed them treats or meals.

If they seem anxious, try gently petting them and offering your comfort.

Be careful with these types of silent meows!

A cat's silent meow can sometimes be caused by poor physical condition. If you feel like something is "different than usual" even slightly, consult a veterinarian.

Dry throat

For cats that don't drink much water, their throats can become dry, causing their meows to sound raspy. Also, after surgeries involving general anesthesia, such as neutering or spaying, they may have difficulty producing a normal sound for two or three days.

Make sure clean water is always available and try offering wet food or treats.

Excessive meowing or aging

When a cat has been meowing too much, their vocal cords can become inflamed, leading to a raspy voice. Aging can also cause a cat's voice to become raspy.

If there are no other symptoms, you don't need to worry; just try to keep their environment peaceful.

Infection

If they have a respiratory infection, they may exhibit symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, or coughing, along with a raspy meow.

Summary

A silent meow is when a cat goes through the motions of meowing without sound.

Normally, this method of communication is only used between parents and their kittens or between close cat friends. Therefore, a silent meow from your cat is a sign of their trust in you.

While these silent meows serve as expressions of love and communication, they can sometimes be caused by health issues or stress. To notice changes in your cat, value your daily interactions together.