Maine Coon Weird Noises

From chirps to growls, Maine Coon vocalizations set them apart from other cat breeds. These gentle giants produce peculiar noises for many reasons, including:

• Communication

• Expressing Emotions

• Instinctual Behaviors

Understanding these sounds helps owners better communicate with their kitties and ensure their health and well-being. Maine Coon cats are famous for their vocalizations, which range from purring and trilling to howling and crying. The Maine Coons’ unique sounds communicate quite a range of emotions and behaviors and it is up to pet owners to decode it! Here is a breakdown of the most common Maine Coon sounds and what they mean:

1. Hissing

A hiss from a Maine Coon cat is typically a sign of:

• Discomfort

• Fear

• Aggression

It is a warning to back off and give the cat some space.

Cats, including Maine Coons, may hiss in a variety of situations, such as:

• When they feel concerned

• When they feel the need to protect their territory

• When they are feeling sick

2. Chirping

The Maine Coon chirping sound is a friendly, conversational sound that they make to get their owners’ attention. It can also indicate curiosity or playfulness.

What does a Maine Coon chirp sound like? Well, it is a bird-like, short, high-pitched sound repeated several times in a row.

3. Trill

A trill is a high-pitched, rolling sound that Maine Coon cats make when they are happy or excited. Some Maine Coon owners describe these trills as a cross between a purr and a meow or a musical sound. Generally, the Maine Coon trill sound is a sign of contentment and affection.

4. Crying

When a Maine Coon cat cries, it can be a sign of distress or discomfort.

This sound can range from a soft cry to a loud, mournful wail. Loud yowls should alert pet parents that their cat needs something.

5. Growling

A growl is a warning sign from a Maine Coon cat that is feeling threatened or territorial. It is a sign to back off and give the cat some space. When a Maine Coon growls, it is usually paired with body language cues, like flattened ears, a puffy tail, and an arched back.

6. Howling

Maine Coon cats are known for their howls, which can be loud and dramatic! The howl is a loud, prolonged, and even mournful sound that is unlike other sounds that Maine Coons make. This sound can be a sign of discomfort, loneliness, or a desire for attention.

7. Purring

The classic purr means that a Maine Coon cat is content and relaxed. It is a soothing sound that many owners find very comforting. This low, rumbling sound is similar to how other cats purr.

8. Clicking

Maine Coon cats sometimes make a clicking sound with their mouths, which can be a sign of excitement or anticipation. The clicking sound is often described as a series of short, sharp clicks or chirps. This cute noise may come with body language cues like a swishing tail or a relaxed posture, which indicate playfulness.

9. Meow

Maine Coons do not meow like normal cats. Instead, they opt to communicate using a selection of the Maine Coon noises listed within this article.

10. Bark

While Maine Coon cats do not bark exactly like dogs, they may occasionally try to imitate their canine companions. Maine Coon owners must be aware that hacking or wheezing noises might sound like “barks” but could indicate a health issue. A veterinarian can help uneasy pet owners get to the bottom of any potentially concerning noises their Maine Coons are making.

11. Chuffing

Maine Coon cats do not chuff as big cats do e.g. lions.

Why Do They Make Weird Noises?

The main reasons Maine Coon cats make these weird noises:

• Communication: Vocalizations are a key way that Maine Coons communicate with their owners and fellow felines.

• Attention: Maine Coons may make unusual sounds to get attention or express their desire for affection and cuddles.

• Contentment: Some of these friendly cats make trilling or chirping sounds when they are happy and content.

• Anxiety or Discomfort: Unusual sounds can signify that a Maine Coon cat is feeling anxious or uncomfortable.

• Breed Traits: Maine Coons are naturally inclined toward their distinctive vocalization style due to their genetic disposition.