Learn
More!
YOUR
TALKATIVE CAT
Vocalizing
is one way for your cat to communicate with you and 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 : "Understanding
Cat Aggression Toward 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 may indicate 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 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 to 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.
Reprinted
with permission from the Denver Dumb Friends League.
