Why Do Cats Meow?

Meowing is a cat’s way of communicating, but did you know that cats always meow to humans and not to other cats? However, when kittens are young, they meow at their mother for attention, but as they become older, they will only do so while conversing with humans.

Cats vocalize through a range of sounds varied by their pitch, pronunciation, and rhythm, and some cats are known for being more vocal than others. Siamese cats are known for being loud, whilst Persian cats are known for being quiet. So, every individual cat is unique in its own way and has its own way of communicating, but understanding why it meows will help you communicate better with your feline friend.

Top 10 Reasons Why Cats Meow

Check out these 10 possible meanings of feline vocalizations:

1. They just wanna say hi!
2. They’re hungry
3. They’re lonely
4. They’re unwell
5. They’re in the heat
6. They’re anxious
7. They want something
8. They want attention
9. They want to show you something
10. They want you to let them in/out

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Four Main Types of Meows

• Meowing
• Purrs and Thrills
• Chirps and Chatter
• Hissing and Growling

Meowing

Cats meow for many reasons. Your cat might be hungry, lonely, or excited when she meows. Cats also meow to greet their humans. Elderly cats suffering from health problems may also meow a lot.

Purrs and Thrills

To decode your cat’s purring, you need to understand their body language. A relaxed and curled-up cat is probably in a good mood whereas, a tense and angry cat is stressed and anxious. They also purr to soothe themselves when they are injured or unwell.

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Chirps and Chatter

Cats chirp and chatter on seeing birds or insects as it makes them very excited but at the same time they make these sounds out of frustration that they’re not being able to chase their prey. These vocalizations usually help cats point out something important towards which they would like to draw your attention.

Hissing and Growling

A hissing and growling cat is a clear signal that you should back away. An extended back, puffed-out hair, a straight and fluffy tail, ears flat on their skull, and an open mouth with exposed teeth are common accompaniments to these vocalizations. If your cat does so, it’s better to leave her alone unless she’s in danger.

What to Do When Your Cat Meows

When your cat meows, it certainly means she is trying to communicate something. Pay attention to them and see how you can help them.

If they’re out of something obvious like food, water, treats, or litter box, make sure to provide it to them.

If they still continue to meow persistently, see your vet for a routine check-up to make sure that they are safe.