Growling?

[Aandeg]

My new baby quaker growls. I know he does it when he's upset, he's not quite used to me yet. He is just learning to step up and is unsure about it. But he also does it when comfortably snuggled on my shoulder. Or even when I'm feeding him.

It's soooo sweet. but what does it mean. It's a very quiet growl or purr most of the time but gets louder and screachier if he's upset. (Like when he got stuck behind the radiator and I had to grab him)

Is this an all purpose sound ? Is there a difference between a happy purr and a "don't touch me" purr? And is this baby talk or will it persist? (I hope it does , it's adorable)

Edit: ha! He just misstepped and growled at his ladder. errrr!

 

[cnyguy]

There is a difference between the purr of a happy Quaker and the growl of an annoyed or angry one. The purr is typically softer and gentler, similar to the purr of a contented cat, and the growl is louder and it's meaning is usually clear enough, much like a dog's growl.

Ralph is 5 years old and still purrs when he's happy and contented. He seldom growls, but does sometimes "Quaker curse," which is an insistent sort of graaaccckk! Sometimes, when he really dislikes something, he'll hiss at it too.

 

[Aandeg]

Ok thanks cnyguy. I think I've heard all of those. And I kinda figured it out by the context but it's nice to get some expert translation.

Such a lot of expression in a simple sound. I love it!

 

[Allee]

Quakers have an amazing variety of noises. Your quaker will have you so well trained in a few months that you will understand every sound he makes. Some quakers are gifted talkers, but even those who are, still use their unique quaker language. I believe quakers learn to speak just so they can argue with us and boss us around.

I agree with you, I love quaker noises. My male quaker doesn't speak English nearly as well as our female quaker, but when I'm very close to him he says, giveusakiss, the cutest part is he whispers it. He had been saying it for weeks before I finally understood.

 

[cnyguy]

It is pretty remarkable how many different meanings Ralph can put into a simple graaaccckkk! Over four-and-a-half years, I'm fairly good at interpreting all of them now, as you will be too.

 

[Aandeg]

WOW! It's been a week and that's all I can say. WOW!

This little guy can really talk. (Not just growl) I just have to learn what he's saying.