Glossary

Chattering

The rapid clicking of the jaw and teeth, often with chirps, that cats make when watching prey they cannot reach.

Also called: chittering, chirping at birds, jaw chatter, teeth chatter

Chattering, or chittering, is a quick clicking or chirping noise that cats make with their jaws while staring at birds, squirrels or insects, often through a window. The lower jaw may quiver, and the tail may twitch. It is a common sight with indoor cats.

Nobody knows for certain why cats do it. One idea is that it is excitement, the body running through the first steps of the hunt with nowhere to go. Another is frustration at being unable to reach the prey. A third suggests that the cat is rehearsing the quick bite used to kill small animals, or even copying the sounds of birds. None of these has been proven.

Whatever the cause, it is normal and harmless. It shows that the cat has a strong hunting drive and would benefit from outlets. Give it a window perch, a bird feeder outside, wand toys that mimic prey and a meal after play, see predatory sequence. If chattering comes with other changes, such as drooling, trouble chewing or pawing at the mouth, ask your vet to check the teeth and mouth.

Last reviewed November 7, 2026

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Related terms

Predatory sequence The chain of behaviours cats use to hunt: watch, stalk, chase, pounce, kill-bite and eat, which good play should echo. Trilling A short, rolling, rising sound cats use as a friendly greeting, copied from the way a mother calls her kittens. Zoomies Short, sudden bursts of high-speed running and leaping, common in young cats, usually in the evening or early morning. Enrichment Giving a cat chances to carry out natural behaviours such as climbing, hunting, scratching, hiding and exploring, so it stays well and busy.