| Do you ever get the feeling that cats just sort of put up with us humans? Persnickety little creatures, a cat’s behavior lends itself to certain status roles -- in order words, the cat is royalty and we humans are simply the court jesters and/or servants! So, just what is a human to do when their royal resident starts meowing? A cat’s calling; meowing or caterwauling may mean a countless number of things -- sometimes more than one at the same time – and is simply a way of communicating or talking with us. If we humans are to co-exist with these hissing and purring little furballs in a peaceful manner, we need to learn some of the basics of their vocalizations. Let’s take a look.
Body Language
Perhaps one of the best ways for us humans to understand some of these cat vocalizations is to try and read their body language and behavior during their meowing communications. For instance, if you are standing in the kitchen and all of the sudden your cat starting rubbing on you and meowing take a look at its food and water bowls. Chances are that one or both just might be empty. Go ahead and fill the cat’s bowls with food and drink. If it stops rubbing and meowing and heads straight for the kitty kibble, then guess what? You have just interpreted one of the cat’s many meows!
Meowing And Scratching
What happens if your cat starts meowing and scratching, and scratching is not part of the cat’s normal behavior? Go take a look at its litter box. Cats do not like going potty in a dirty litter box. If the litter box looks like it needs to be cleaned, then do it and see if the cat continues the meowing and scratching behavior. If you interpreted the cat’s vocalizations correctly, it will have gone straight to the fresh, clean litter box to conduct a little “business.” If not, then you still have a problem on your hands trying to figure out what your cat is trying to tell you.
Purring
Purring is also part of the cat’s vocalization. And when paired with some meowing, you may just have a cat on your hands that is trying to suck up to you. Sometimes, it is for a food treat, a good ear scratching session or a little play time. So it is up to you, as the owner, to interpret that purring and try all three solutions. Chances are that your cat would appreciate all three! Cats are bold animals. If they wanted the ear scratching first, they would probably just head butt your hand until you commenced with the scratching.
Swishy Tails
The cat’s tail can also tell the tale when paired with meowing or some other vocalization. That twitching tail can mean anything from being happy to restless to fearful. For instance, if the cat’s tail is twitching furiously and accompanied by a meow, that could signal excitement, meaning they want to play. If you were holding them or petting them, it could mean to cease and desist – they’ve had enough! If a cat is feeling threatened, they may tuck their tail down low and emit a low growling type of sound or even hissing. The cat’s ears may also look pinned back as well.
A Meowing Fool
If your normally quiet little feline turns into a meowing fool, be alert for any signs of changing behavior. Since cats don’t like to show their “weakness” it is sometimes hard to tell when they are sick. Therefore, if your cat starts to meow suddenly, take a look at any unusual behavior that could be a precursor to illness, such as loss of appetite, potty accidents or excessive scratching. Your cat’s excessive meowing might mean that he just can’t take it anymore and needs some help. Also, if there have been some big changes in the cat’s life recently he might start howling. A recent move, death in the family, or a new animal in the home can all precipitate the cat calls, caterwauling and meowing.
Getting Attention
Of course, all that noise from your cat could simply indicate that they want to play or get your attention. For them, it is especially fun to do this while you, their ever-loving owners, are asleep in bed. Whatever you do, do not show any reaction. Giving them attention – whether positive or negative – just encourages them. Try to ignore them or close your bedroom door. If that doesn’t work, keep a water gun by your bed and shoot it with water every time they wake you up with their meowing. Cats hate getting wet!
Meows, Howls, Purrs And Hisses
Whether it’s a meow, howl, purr or hiss, our furry family members possess a multitude of vocalizations. Although you may never be able to interpret fully what they are trying to communicate with you, some of the ideas mentioned above should help you understand what some of their caterwauling is all about. |