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Among all the reactions that cats have, one that catches our attention and even causes us some alarm is snorting. The truth is that this is more than a reaction, it's a message they give us through their feline language.
Cats huff and growl when they feel upset, threatened, or out of control. This does not happen by chance, as they only do this when they feel the presence of a problem. They may even and although you pose no real threat, snort and growl at you. It's totally normal, it's your cat's way of asking you not to get close to him right now and to stay in an alert position like him. He is telling you "we are in defensive mode".
However, there are other reasons for your cat to snort. Therefore, we invite you to read the following article by PeritoAnimal to know why cats snort.
a warning
One of the reasons cats snort is to warn you that something is not to your liking or what if feel unhappy. His mood is altered, and although your reaction is to approach him or even scold him, it's best to keep a little distance.
If you get close even though your cat is snorting at you, you might get scratched or bitten. Cats are very territorial animals. It may also be that you are warning that the place you are in is your space and that anyone who approaches it should do so with respect, respecting the limits.
Too much external information
Cats are very fond of chasing and catching birds. It is said that the blowing of cats can be an imitation of singing of birds to attract them. If your cat is snorting it may be that he/she is very close and that he/she is seeing another animal like squirrels, birds, mice or moving objects through the window, and he/she has all your interest in this element or is afraid of its presence.
my territory
As mentioned before, cats are territorial creatures, they like to have their space and feel that they are their own masters and masters, so sometimes it is difficult for them to share. Likewise, they are very sensitive to sudden changes. If you brought home a new animal companion this is a great opportunity for your cat to snort a lot, as it will feel like an offense and will be your way of express your displeasure. This could even end in fights until boundaries are established.
You can also blow when you notice the smell of a stray cat when it passes close to your house. It is important to bear in mind that unneutered male cats, when they are about to fight with another, snort with more intensity and volume, communicating their displeasure at the other's presence.
feel pain
If your cat blows and is apprehensive when you are going to pet him or try to get up normally, he is very sweet and affectionate, it could be that feel pain in some part of your body and handling is affecting you. The cat can also intuit that it's going to catch it, so it can get ahead of its intentions by snorting and growling. Be very careful and pay attention to how you approach. Study these reactions in your pet and if this happens more than three times in the same day, we advise that the take to the veterinarian for a complete review.
Bear in mind that a cat snorting does not mean that it is an aggressive animal or with this tendency. Behind aggressive behavior, insecurity, anxiety, pain or discomfort are always hidden. (whether psychological or physical) and fear in the face of unknown and possibly dangerous situations that pose a threat to him and even to his family.
