Cat vocalizations vary widely, serving as communication tools that reflect their emotional state and intentions. Meowing often signifies a desire for attention or food and is primarily directed at humans. Purring, though typically associated with contentment, can also indicate pain or distress, serving a self-soothing purpose. Chirps and trills are used by cats to greet their owners or alert them to something interesting, like a bird outside a window. Yowls signal distress, territorial warnings, or mating calls. Hisses and growls are defensive noises indicating fear, aggression, or discomfort. Each sound is part of a complex communication repertoire, unique to each cat and situation.