If there’s one thing cats like to do, it’s meow. As a cat owner, you may be curious about all that meowing, and there are many different reasons why they do it. At Complete Pet Care, pet hospital in Wake Forest, this is one of the main questions we are always asked – “why does my cat meow so much?” or “what is my cat trying to tell me?”. Today we’re going to discuss exactly why cats meow and why it’s significant for you to know what it could mean.
Communication
When they’re kittens, cats use meowing as a main form of communication with their mothers. Just by the type of meow, the mother cat knows if they’re hungry, cold, or scared. But once cats get older, they use other types of vocalizations, like yowling, hissing, or growling, to communicate with one another. Meowing is communication reserved for their owners or people in general.
Illness
Sometimes excessive meowing could be an underlying issue your cat is trying to tell you about. Numerous diseases can cause your pet to feel hunger, thirst, or pain, which can all lead to excessive meowing. Cats can also develop an overactive thyroid or kidney disease, which can result in excessive communication. If you feel like your cat is meowing more than normal and isn’t acting like its normal self, bring them into Complete Pet Care, pet hospital in Wake Forest, and we’ll give your cat a thorough checkup to make sure everything is okay.
Attention Seeking
Some cats want attention and a lot of it. Despite what some people may think, cats don’t like to be left alone a lot. If your cat spends a lot of time alone, try rotating toys in and out so they can have a reason to play. Cats often meow to initiate play, petting, or to get you to talk to them. If you want them to stop meowing so much, try stopping responding to them when they meow and only give them attention when they’re quiet. By no means ignore them, but try and find some time each day to play, groom, or talk with them.
Wants Food
Some cats meow every time they want food – whether it’s food or treats, your cat knows that meowing is how they can get it. If you’re noticing your cat won’t stop meowing for food, try only feeding them when they’re quiet versus every time they meow. Hopefully, they’ll develop a new behavior of not meowing so much. Another option is having an automatic feeder set with a timer so they can meow at the feeder and not you.
Greeting You
This is also your cat’s way of saying “Hello!”. If your cat meows at you as soon as you walk in the door or as soon as they see you, your cat is greeting you. It’s fun to know that your cat missed you and that they’re happy to see you – so just embrace it!
At Complete Pet Care, pet hospital in Wake Forest, we help educate our pet owners, so you know the best ways to take care of your pet. We are your trusted source of knowledge because we provide continual education. This ongoing learning process offers you the opportunity to enhance the quality of your pet’s life and increase the number of healthy years you will have together. Visit our website for more information on our services, or give us a call today!
