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Dog & Cat lover
Why do cats hiss?
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jasmin gomes

Cats hiss as a form of communication, typically when they feel threatened, scared, or agitated. It’s a way for them to express that they want to be left alone or to warn others to stay away. Here are some common reasons why cats hiss:

Fear or Anxiety: If a cat feels scared or threatened by something unfamiliar, like a new person, animal, or loud noise, they might hiss as a way to protect themselves. It’s a defensive response to say, “Back off, I’m not comfortable!”

Aggression: Cats may hiss when they feel cornered or are trying to assert dominance. It’s often a warning that they may become aggressive if the situation doesn’t change.

Pain or Discomfort: A cat that is in pain or not feeling well might hiss if someone touches a sore area or if they’re in an uncomfortable situation.

Territorial Behavior: Cats can be territorial animals, and if they feel that their space is being invaded (whether by another animal or a person), they may hiss as a warning to stay away.

Startled or Surprised: Sometimes, if a cat is suddenly startled or surprised by something, their immediate reaction is to hiss. It’s their instinctive way of saying "I'm startled!" or "Don’t come closer!"