Keeping The Quiet

A cat’s meow is the unique vocal sound that sets them apart from all other animals. While our cats will most likely meow to indicate they're hungry there are quite a few other reasons they may be feeling vocal.

If you’ve looked after or owned a few cats, you will know that some cats seem to meow much more than others. Certain breeds, such as Siamese cats, are known for being quite vocal for example. 

Furthermore, your kitty’s coat color can determine how loud they are likely to be, with orange tabbies known to be the chattiest. 

But what do you do if your fur baby is constantly meowing? Whether it’s during the day or at night, excessive meowing can be frustrating and worrisome for any cat owner. Let's discuss a few of the possibilities behind those persistent cries.

Why Does My Cat Meow So Much? 

To stop the constant meowing, you first need to figure out the reason behind it. Here are the most common reasons why your feline won’t stop meowing and the actions you can take to help. 

1.Hunger 

The most straightforward reason for excessive vocalization is that your cat is not getting enough food. 

This is most common in kittens as they need to eat a surprisingly large amount of food to compensate for their rapid growth. 

Another reason a cat may appear extra hungry is if they have worms. Again this is common in young kittens as well as cats that are consistently outdoors. 

What To Do 

If your fur baby meows every time you cook, eat, or even open the fridge, it’s a clear sign that they want food. If your kitty is only ever quiet after being fed, increase their portion size or add an extra feeding within reason. 

If your feline is meowing at night for food, a bigger portion before bed could help as well. 

Moreover, if you haven’t dewormed your kitty lately, do this as soon as possible. As a general rule of thumb, you should deworm your cat every 1-3 months. If you'd feel more comfortable having an extra hand you can always check in with their vet for a routine visit.

2.Boredom Or Loneliness 

Cats can create a habit of meowing whenever they are bored. If your kitty is walking around the house meowing or will not leave you alone, they most likely lack stimulation. 

This is incredibly common in single cat households. Without a playmate, cats get bored quickly and require a lot of playtime from their humans. 

This also links to loneliness. Most cats are happier and healthier with a friend to play with, although some cats and certain breeds may not be the most compatible match. 

What To Do 

If you suspect this is the cause of your fur baby’s constant meowing, increase their playtime, create new games, and give them new toys that you can enjoy together. 

If your kitty is the lone feline of the house you may want to consider getting a furry friend that can keep them company. Introducing your cat to a new brother or sister is one of the most effective ways to provide companionship and reduce their meowing for attention. 

Be mindful that some cats prefer to be the only pet in the house and will need that to be accommodated to feel safe and secure. 

3.Attention Seekers

Some cats will meow simply to get your attention. Cats love to receive petting and affection, and if they feel you are too busy for them, they will use their meow as a way to make you notice them. 

While rather harmless, this behavior can become reinforced rather quickly when you give in straight away and they might begin to associate their meows with getting what they want. 

What To Do 

To deal with attention-seeking behaviors in cats, you should refrain from responding when they meow. 

Instead, pet and play with them only when they are calm and quiet, then whenever they start to meow again, stop. 

This can take some time before you see an improvement as felines do not learn as quickly as canines do. If you attempt this corrective technique, do not ignore or neglect your cat completely. Ensure you still spend quality time with them every day but only once they've behaved appropriately.

4.Wanting To Breed 

Un-neutered cats can become very vocal as they reach sexual maturity around six months of age. If you have an un-neutered female, she will start to howl when she’s in heat. Likewise, if you have an intact male, he will howl and most likely claw at doors and windows to indicate he wants to leave the house and mate. 

What To Do 

A meow to breed is different from any other type of meow and is more of a small howl. Aside from the sound, you will know if this is the cause, as it will be most prominent every few weeks during each "heat". 

This can become extremely aggravating to live with and will most likely come right around your bedtime. Getting your cat spayed or neutered at the appropriate age will help to curve that instinct and reduce their meowing tendencies. 

5.Illness Or Pain 

Even though felines typically hide their pain rather well, constant meowing can be a clear cut sign that your cat is seriously hurting. 

Certain illnesses can also result in increased meowing, such as an overactive thyroid or even kidney disease. Felines with hyperthyroidism particularly meow a lot in the evening and through the night. 

What To Do 

Watch your cat’s behavior as they meow. For example, if they meow the most before, after, and while using the litter box, this could signal a UTI or other digestive issues. 

If your kitty is aging and you notice an increase in vocalization at night, get their thyroid checked by their vet. Furthermore, if you have ruled out all other possible causes seek professional help.

6.Stress Or Anxiety 

If physical pain is not the cause, stress or anxiety could be the culprit. A cat that has experienced recent stress or trauma, such as changes in the home, might become more vocal. 

In this case, the meowing is a sign of emotional stress or fear and is helping to comfort them or catch your attention. 

What To Do 

First, understand what exactly is causing their stress and anxiety. The problem could be something as simple as the litter box being dirty, which is an easy fix. Or, it could be something in the outer environment unsettling your fur baby. An example of this might be outdoors cats or other animals getting too close to the home or the window.

There are many ways to calm a stressed cat, such as giving them quiet time in an isolated room, creating a cozy space for them to rest or hide, or using pheromone sprays to reduce anxiety and comfort them. 

Our Thoughts 

When your fur baby meows all the time, it can be distressing for the whole household and can leave you feeling helpless as an owner. 

If you cannot work out the problem, it doesn’t mean you're a bad cat parent. Seek some help from your vet or a behaviorist. Once you find the cause, you can start to take action and settle your kitty down, creating a healthy and peaceful environment for everyone.