How does a cat hiss at a cat? - briefly
A cat hisses at another cat by forcefully expelling air through its mouth, creating a sharp, threatening sound to communicate fear, aggression, or a warning to back off.
How does a cat hiss at a cat? - in detail
When a cat hisses at another cat, it is a vocalization and body language signal used primarily as a defensive or warning mechanism. The hiss is a sharp, prolonged sound produced by forcing air through the mouth, often accompanied by a wide-open mouth with bared teeth. This sound mimics the noise of a snake, which can be an evolutionary adaptation to intimidate potential threats. The cat’s body language during a hiss is equally significant. The ears flatten against the head, the fur along the back and tail may stand up (piloerection), and the body often arches to appear larger and more threatening. The tail may puff out and twitch, adding to the display. This combination of sound and posture serves to communicate discomfort, fear, or aggression, signaling to the other cat to back off or avoid confrontation. Hissing is typically a last resort before physical engagement, as cats generally prefer to avoid direct conflict. The intensity and duration of the hiss can vary depending on the level of perceived threat and the individual cat’s temperament. Understanding this behavior helps recognize when a cat feels threatened or stressed, allowing for appropriate intervention to prevent escalation.