I soooo agree with the communication thing. Cats do understand - maybe not specific words but the tone of voice and probably the smell you give off.
(its said that animals can detect cancer before it is symptomatic)

They respond to us and give us signals that they expect us to understand and respond appropriately. Biting for instance is a signal they know we understand - a gentle holding in the mouth is a warning which will increase in intensity if we don't desist

I think animals are much more intelligent in communication than given credit for - think if you were plonked on an alien planet would you do as well at getting essential requirements as a cat?

Thats what i think makes Siamese/Orientals stand out for me as they aren't like any other cat i've met-in that they really do understand you and somehow we understand them,it's really one of many redeeming quality's they hold-and needless to say if you don't understand them first time-they have ways and means

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Dogs have owners, Cats have slaves

Burnthwaites Siamese

I'm sure they understand words, NO they understand but like Saikou's cats they
ignore that or pretend to be deaf
If I say prawns or cheese they go to the fridge shouting loudly at me
i could go on all night about words I know they understand .
What I like to watch and listen to is a Queen making noises to kittens
if you listen carefully you can hear differences especially when they are telling the kittens off

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Mazpahs Siamese & Orientals