Look who’s talking!

It’s normal for cats to vocalize, and some do it much more than others. Particular breeds, such as Siamese and other Orientals, are particularly talkative, whereas some cats may barely utter a peep. Cats relate to us as their surrogate mothers (whether we’re male or female) and learn to communicate with us to get their needs met. If a particular meow, chirp, or chortle elicits a desired response, they will learn to do it more. Some cats are genuinely social, and probably enjoy “talking” with us for companionship. They may develop a special language just for us.

Of course there are times that a feline monologue is just not the cat’s meow. What’s charming in the middle of the day can be infuriating at 3 AM. Is your cat just lonely and bored? Or is something wrong?

Attention-seeking behavior

Most chatty cats just want your attention. A cat will learn that if she meows long enough, your will feed her, play with her, or wake up and let her into your bedroom. What begins as a simple demand becomes a self-perpetuating habit. Here are some ways to discourage this type of behavior.

• Stop reinforcing it. Hard as it may be, refuse to respond when your cat meows relentlessly at your door. At night, consider closing your cat along with food, water, litter, and toys, in a separate room where she’s less likely to disturb you. If you consistently ignore her unreasonable demands, they will eventually stop. In theory.
• Environmental enrichment. Consider that your cat may be lonely or bored. Many cats spend long hours alone at home with little to do. Introduce regular daily play sessions with your cat. The game must be interactive and should last 15-20 minutes. Use a laser pointer, a feather toy, or similar interactive game that really gets your cat moving. Later, she’ll be too happy and tired to yowl at your door.
• Reward good behavior. Give your kitty the attention she craves ONLY when she is acting calm and quiet.
• Get another cat. An age-appropriate feline playmate may be the answer in some cases. Younger, more playful cats will often welcome a new companion. It may not be the right choice if your cat is older, fussier, or more set in her ways.
• Consult your veterinarian. Excessive meowing may be sign of separation anxiety or even a medical problem. If simple solutions fail to help, it’s time to consult your veterinarian.

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