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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Attention: Try to give your cat extra love
and attention during this difficult transition.
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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.
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