A Cat That Meows a Lot: What to Do
Summary
Zoom in on meowing
Step 1: Check your cat’s health
Case 1: a cat that meows a lot because of anxiety
Case 2: a cat that meows a lot out of boredom
Case 3: a cat that meows a lot to ask for food
Meowing is the most common vocal manifestation in cats. While most cats use it in moderation, some meow a lot. It can be very annoying, but cats do meow for a reason. Follow our tips for dealing with a cat that meows a lot.
Zooming in on meowing
Cats don’t use meowing very much among themselves. It is a mode of communication that small felines have developed to address humans. There are many types of meows, each occurring at specific times and for specific requests. It remains quite difficult to categorize them, even if we can distinguish the main types:
- purring meows express satisfaction;
- the jerky meows, an annoyance;
- loud, insistent meows are a request.
Studies have shown that in most cases, owners can “understand” their pet’s meow, differentiating between a contented meow, a fearful meow, and a call…
Good to know: some breeds are more talkative than others; this is the case of Siamese, Balinese, and Burmese, for example. In all species, however, there are talkers and non-talkers.
1. Check your cat’s health
If your cat suddenly starts becoming more talkative, something is wrong. It may be:
Wanting to express upset over a change in his surroundings: a new arrival or departure in the household, a change in food, a move, etc.
Tip: Cats like their habits, and changing them can be upsetting. Find out what may have upset him and how to fix it. It is possible to use synthetic pheromones to help your cat find peace, and so can you.
Being sick: In this case, his meowing is accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite, lack of vitality, and a less shiny coat.
It is not uncommon for older cats to meow a lot, reflecting their inability to do things they used to do so easily, such as climbing on a chair, observing their surroundings, and eating. Medication can help them to better cope with the inconveniences of age.
Important: Consult your veterinarian when faced with a sudden behavior change.
Case 1: a cat that meows a lot because of anxiety
Most cats especially like to relax in high places. A cat that doesn’t have access to a tall piece of furniture or a place where it feels safe may express its discomfort by repetitively meowing. A cat may also meow because it can’t find a suitable place to rest, creating anxiety in the cat.
Allow her to find a place. You can encourage an area by putting a cushion with a little cat tree scent (available in commercial spray). But be patient. It’s the cat that will decide if this place is suitable or not.
Also, think about installing a cat tree. Note, however, that a few cats shun them.
Case 2: a cat that meows a lot out of boredom
Most of the time, cats meow to ask for something and often miss activities. Never forget that even though cats are heavy sleepers, they only rest well if active. Therefore, you must enrich his environment and provide him with activities that will allow him to tire himself physically and mentally.
There are many cat toys available on the market. However, you should know that one toy is not enough and that it is better to rotate two or three so the cat does not get tired of them. Don’t forget that a simple cardboard box or paper bag can be a source of play, and your cat will also enjoy sharing playtime with you: the cork on the end of the string has long been proven to be a good idea.
Tip: You can also get another cat. However, introducing a new pet is not always easy, especially with a cat that has lived alone for a long time.
Case 3: a cat that meows a lot to ask for food
The cat needs to take split meals throughout the day. The easiest way to feed him is to leave kibbles available all day, even if it means completing them with a little pate at the end of the day. He will be able to have about ten small snacks a day. Cats that can’t split their meals and are fed only once or twice a day may experience frustration, which can be seen, among other things, in untimely meowing.
