What does it mean when a cat hisses at you?

[Dilbertian]

But doesn't arch his back, raise his fur or flatten his ears? No other indications of hositility, just occasionally gives one open-mouthed hiss when you come into the room.

Cat is a neutered, healthy, 10yo rescue. He has been with us for two days, is otherwise settling in well, eating, cuddling, enjoying being stroked and grooming.

@Dilbertian thank you. He is like a cuddly version of my SnoreCat.

I’ve had lots of cats over the years and white cats are in my opinion a bit “hissy.” What colour eyes does he have? I’m presuming he isn’t deaf or you’d have said.

Wow he’s gorgeous!

Hissing means “I am displeased”. This may be because of something that you have done, something you have not done, or because Cat is feeling anxious/bored/hungry/uncomfortable and feels it important that his new slaves are aware of this.

No evidence of deafness or blindness. Though I do wonder whether his vision isn't perfect, as that might account for him being briefly anxious when we approach him, until he recognises us. OTOH he seems to watch the birds flying across the garden, his head movements match their movements.

Aaah, he's probably just settling in. If it's not followed by any howling or yowling then I'd leave him to it. If you think his vision may be iffy then maybe announce your arrival verbally when you're coming into the room - perhaps you're making him jump.

I think sometimes it’s just because they are a bit overwhelmed. Especially when they are settling in and not completely confident in their environment. Treat it as a signal that he wants to decide how to proceed and let him come to you. He looks adorable, I love a chunky boy cat.

Sometimes it's just because cats are arseholes!
I have 2 cats