Cats, unable to speak, use their body language to communicate. One of the reactions that most attracts our attention is the snort. When they open their mouths, showing their teeth and exhale, staring at someone or some furry that is bothering them, they often get their "opponent" to turn around and walk away.
However, if you are wondering why cats snort, next I will explain everything about this feline behavior.
This is my territory
Cats are very territorial animals. Even the most affectionate and social furry will snort at some point to defend "his domain." This is a problem when a new member arrives in the family or when we move, since it is also very difficult for them to adapt to changes.
For this reason, the best thing to do is to help them, either with products such as Feliway so that they reassure them, and above all respecting their space.
I am tense / uncomfortable
Another reason cats snort is to express discomfort to elicit a reaction (leave them alone). For example, if someone, has two legs or four legs, corners them they will snort to try to get them to move away so they can escape.
In the event that we want to caress them in that state, it is most likely that they will scratch and / or bite us. To avoid this, you have to treat them well and take care of them as they deserve.
I feel pain
If we have cats that are normally calm and docile but when we are going to pick them up or give a pampering session they complain a lot and / or snort, surely they are telling us that they feel pain in some part of their body. In addition, they may even anticipate our movements and, as soon as they notice that we are going to manipulate them, they snort and / or growl at us.
In these situations you have to take them to the vet as soon as possible.
I try to imitate the song of the birds
Cats are predatory animals. One of the things they really like to do is chase and catch birds (and sometimes, take them home). It is believed that when they snort around them they do it to attract them, since they try to imitate their song.
So if they're looking out the window and we suddenly hear them snorting, we won't have to worry about a thing. Of course, it is important that this window is closed, both for the good of the bird and the cat.
I hope it has been useful to you 🙂.