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Vocalizing is one way for your cat to communicate with
you and with other animals. Some cats "talk" more than others, but most
cats do make noise some of the time. We’re all familiar with the meaning
of hissing and growling, but there are also many other sounds that your
cat is capable of, and a variety of reasons for vocalizing. If your cat is
hissing or growling, please see our handout: "Understanding
Cat Aggression Towards People."
Medical Reasons
If your cat’s behavior changes suddenly, the first thing
you should do is take her to your veterinarian for a thorough health
examination. Cats often hide symptoms of illness until they’re seriously
ill. Any change in behavior may be an early indication of a medical
problem. A new vocalizing behavior, in particular, may indicate physical
discomfort stemming from an urgent need for medical attention.
Breed Tendency
Oriental breeds, such as the Siamese, are known to be
very vocal. If your cat has a pointed face and a long, lean body, chances
are she has some oriental heritage, so "talking" may be a part of her
character. Avoid giving her any attention when she is vocal because this
will only encourage the vocal behavior. Instead, give her attention when
she is quiet.
Attention-Seeking Behavior
Some cats "talk" because they know they’ll get a
reaction. People may talk back, feed her, yell at her, pick her up and
lock her in another room, or pick her up and soothe her. All of these
responses will encourage an attention-seeking cat. To discourage this
behavior, simply ignore your cat when she does this, and when she is
quiet, pour on the love, feed her or give her some treats. This will teach
your cat which behaviors you would like her to continue.
Your Cat Wants To Go Outside
If your cat was previously an outdoor cat and you plan
to keep her inside, then good for you! Following are some suggestions to
help make the transition easier on both of you.
- Spay or Neuter: Spaying or neutering will rid your cat of
those hormonal urges to go out and seek a mate. This will result in a
calmer, friendlier cat.
- Play Schedule: Schedule play times during the times your cat
would normally be outside. This will distract her from her normal
routine and establish another, safer routine.
- Window Seat: Be sure your cat has a view of the outdoors and
a sunny place to lie. Cats like to watch birds, so putting a bird feeder
outside this window is likely to make it a favorite spot for your cat.
- Scavenger Hunt: Give your cat a game to play by hiding bits
of dry food around the house. Hide the food in paper bags, boxes and
behind open doors. This will give her exercise and keep her busy so she
doesn’t think of going outside. This is especially good to do right
before the family leaves the house for the day.
- Attention: Try to give your cat extra love and attention
during this difficult transition.
- Aversives: If your cat still
won’t give up meowing by the door, try an aversive. Leave strong citrus
scents by the door or hide behind a wall and shake a pop can filled with
coins to interrupt the behavior. When she is quiet, walk out and give
her a food treat and encourage her to play or cuddle.
Grief
Sometimes after the death or departure of a person or
animal in your cat’s life, she will vocalize to express her grief. This
can be a normal part of the grieving process. The best thing you can do
for her is keep her schedule the same (or as close as possible) and spend
some extra cuddle and playtime with her. With time, this problem should
take care of itself.
Transition
If your cat is new to your home or has just gone
through a change (move, new person/animal in the household, person moved
out) and has just started her talkative behavior, be patient. This may be
happening due to the transition and will stop on its own if the behavior
is not encouraged. Remember, even scolding can be perceived by your cat as
attention, and thus encourage the behavior. |
