Communication doesn't have to be verbal, Heald. I have 2 dogs and I assure you that they communicate with each other, and with me. This communication consists mainly of body language, plus some sounds.

I wouldn't be surprised if some Pokemon could communicate with animals in the same way as we do (by 'we' I mean those of us who have bothered trying). Some could play with them and pet them, some could train them to do some tasks for them, and yes, some Pokemon may eat animals too. I believe both the game and the anime have already hinted at that.