Have you ever wondered what’s going through your cat’s mind when you talk to them? In part two of our exploration, we dive into what science and behavior experts have to say about this fascinating topic!

When we speak to cats, they don’t understand our words, but they’re excellent at reading tone, body language, and pitch. Cats may not understand human language like dogs do, but they do recognize familiar sounds. In fact, studies suggest that cats can pick up on the emotional tone of our voice. So, when you’re calm and soothing, your cat may respond by purring, blinking slowly, or snuggling up—signs that they feel safe and comforted.

Cats also tend to respond positively to higher-pitched voices, which is why many pet owners use a “baby voice” with them. They recognize the sound of your voice as a sign of love and care. So, while they might not understand every word, they can still sense your affection and respond with their unique, quirky behaviors.

Next time you chat with your cat, remember, they’re picking up on much more than words!