Why do cats hiss?
It might just be a weird veterinary thing, but when I notice two work colleagues arguing in front of me, sometimes I hiss at them. It’s my animal way of communicating to them that they’re fighting like cats and are being, well, kind of catty. I guess non-animal people would think that’s really weird. That said, why do cats hiss?
Cats hiss to sound intimidating and to scare away whatever is threatening them. Just like when snakes hiss, other creatures probably know to stay away from this sound, as it’s generally not associated with anything good (i.e., you’re about to be bitten or pounced upon). By changing the shape of their tongue and pharynx (the tissue right in front of their voice box), cats are able to sharply release a jet of air while spitting some saliva in the process. As a veterinarian, I’m used to hearing the sound frequently (while I’m restraining or treating them), and I always proceed with caution. Be aware, cat lovers. If you’ve just approached a cat (or person) who’s hissing at you, get the point and quickly back away.
Photo from Tante Bluhmes from Flicker
Cats hiss to sound intimidating and to scare away whatever is threatening them. Just like when snakes hiss, other creatures probably know to stay away from this sound, as it’s generally not associated with anything good (i.e., you’re about to be bitten or pounced upon). By changing the shape of their tongue and pharynx (the tissue right in front of their voice box), cats are able to sharply release a jet of air while spitting some saliva in the process. As a veterinarian, I’m used to hearing the sound frequently (while I’m restraining or treating them), and I always proceed with caution. Be aware, cat lovers. If you’ve just approached a cat (or person) who’s hissing at you, get the point and quickly back away.
Photo from Tante Bluhmes from Flicker
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