Meowing, along with body language, is an adult cat’s main way of communicating with people. It’s known that some breeds meow more than others, and some fluff-balls are simply talkative. But when the sound is relentless, loud, and repetitive, it can be a problem. Not only is it unpleasant to your ears but it can also indicate an underlying health condition.
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Here are the reasons behind the cat concerts and the ways to stop them.
Your cat is bored
Lack of company and stimulation can send anyone meowing, especially your cat. Single pets who are very closely bonded with their carers are particularly susceptible to loneliness or boredom. This kind of constant crying usually starts after you go to bed and continues until you respond or your kitty just gets tired of calling out for attention.
If a cat won't quit making noise to make you notice them, don't. Wait until they are quiet. If the fluff-ball starts to meow again, walk away, and only return when they stopped. If you’re consistent, the pet will catch on, the ASPCA advises.
Or, consider getting a pet sitter or adopting a fluffy sibling.
Your cat is crying for food
Some cats learn to meow whenever anyone enters the kitchen, just in case food might be forthcoming. Others meow to wake you up to serve them breakfast. Cats also learn to beg for human food by meowing.
If your furry friend is crying for food, stop feeding them while they make noise. Instead, stick with prescribed times to teach them that it’s futile to ask for meals at other times. An automatic feeder with a timer is also a possibility.
This is especially useful if your cat wakes you up in the morning to be fed: instead of bothering you they'll be sitting and watching the feeder, waiting for it to open.
Excessive cat meowing could signal hyperthyroidism
Typically found in older cats, hyperthyroidism displays several symptoms, including weight loss despite ravenous hunger, excessive activity and excessive vocalization.
If your pet has these symptoms and won’t stop meowing, take them to the vet right away.
Meowing in un-spayed cats cat means they are in heat
If your five- or six-month-old un-spayed cat won’t stop meowing, they might be in heat. Kitties who want to mate sound eerily loud as if in pain and act in a very affectionate way.
As these are the cries you will have to put up with every 18 to 24 days all year round and unless you plan to breed kittens, the best way to reduce them is to have your cat spayed.
Cat meowing might signal pain
A cat will rarely show pain, but sometimes when they’re really hurting they won’t stop meowing. Health complications can range from infection and upset stomach to cognitive issues and stress.
Monitor your pet for other symptoms such as wobbliness, vomiting, and loss of appetite, and schedule an appointment with a vet.
Sources used:
- Catster: 'Why Does My Cat Keep Meowing?'
- Paw Tracks: 'Why do cats meow excessively? 6 possible causes — and solutions that can help you both'
- The ASPCA: 'Meowing and Yowling'
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