Pet Talk: Cat Chatter is Common

Q: Is there a reason my cat’s teeth chatter when he is looking out the window at the birds on the feeder?

A: This is a behavior that alarms many cat owners the first time they witness it. But not to worry, it is very common. For people who have not seen this particular behavior, here’s what happens. A cat will be intently focused on the birds outside through the window. Suddenly he opens his mouth, pulls his lips back and then opens and closes his jaws very quickly making a teeth chattering noise similar to what a cold and shivering person does. But being cold is not the case with a feline looking at prey. He may also add a vocal utterance similar to a bird chirp.

There are different theories as to why a cat does this. Cats are most often observed chattering at a bird that is close by and chirping loudly.

One theory is they are mimicking the calls of the bird in an attempt at drawing them in closer or to disguise their presence. Cats in the wild have been observed vocally mimicking monkeys.

Some experts believe it may be connected with the frustration they feel from not being able to get to the prey.

It is also believed the chattering is merely a reflex motion in anticipation of performing the killing bite to the prey’s neck. The noise is similar to one made by cats delivering a neck bite to their prey. The scientific name for this behavior is “vacuum activity,” which means that your cat is instinctively doing what he would do if he had the bird in his mouth.

Another probable reason is it is a response to the surge of adrenaline they feel and chattering helps control their over the top excitement at spotting the bird.

So whatever the reason your kitty engages in this chattering behavior, it is still a mystery your cat is keeping to himself.

Sally Salopek is the owner and operator of Attend-A-Pet pet sitting services in northern Door County. She has also worked professionally with animals in health care, pet grooming, training, wildlife rehab and rescue. Send your pet-related questions to her at [email protected].