Cats meow for various reasons. This sound is sometimes consistent and tenacious, and sometimes sporadic and faint, but in all cases it seeks to attract attention.
Experts consider it to be a way of “talking” and communicating with human beings, although each meow has a different reason or explanation.
For the owner of a cat, knowing the reason for his meowing is ideal, since you can interpret if he is showing any symptoms or if he is simply hungry.
Florencia de los Santos is a veterinarian and teacher at the training school of the Veterinary Faculty of the UBA, who referred to the meowing.
“Felines have two ways of vocal communication: purring and meowing,” explained the veterinarian.
“Both are effective in transmitting their needs to us, although the meow is usually accompanied by some non-vocal expression, be it a look, an action, a snort to achieve their goal. In addition, depending on what they are looking for, their ‘meow’ “They will be well differentiated, one to ask for caresses, another to wake us up, to receive food, to go for a walk. Each one will have its own tone, as well as a certain duration,” he added.
According to the expert, in some cases there is a type of nocturnal meow, which should be consulted with veterinarians. This noise can be annoying and unbearable for owners and can become a habit.
“The ancestors of cats hunted at night, that is, they are night owls by nature. First, you would have to get him to expend more energy during the day. And if this doesn’t work, you have to exercise maximum patience and ignore it, so that it understands that it can’t always get its way,” says the specialist.
Meowing from hunger
When a cat is hungry, it usually meows, but it is always accompanied by behaviors such as hovering around your feet or looking at the kitchen or refrigerator. This meowing isn’t going to stop until he eats something. It is also important that you always have fresh, clean water.
Meow for dirt
Cats are very clean animals, if their tray where they do their business is dirty, they will meow for you to clean it. The sandbox must always be impeccable so that he can relieve himself comfortably.
Meowing in pain
In certain cases, meowing can be a sign that something is bothering or hurting, although in this case it is usually accompanied by different behaviors or signs such as loss of appetite. If the cat has changed and shows strange signs, consult your veterinarian.
A cat as an alarm clock
Cats are independent animals, but each one has its characteristics. Some tend to be their owners’ alarm clocks and will not stop meowing until they wake up.
Stress meow
There are certain situations that can cause stress for cats, such as feeling invaded by visitors, moving, or a new member of the family. These factors can cause your cat to not stop meowing, since it is a form of protest against his changes in habits.
Go for a walk
Felines are independent, they like to walk and be outside. If he is locked up in his house and usually goes out to wander, it will be a clear sign if he meows near the doors or windows to be able to get out.
Treats
This meow is unique and unmistakable, accompanied by other attitudes such as walking over your legs or climbing wherever you are. This behavior is common when one is in bed.
For being in heat
When a cat is in heat, it usually has loud meows, but it will also be accompanied by behaviors such as rubbing or rolling. To avoid this, spaying or neutering could be a solution.
