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Tip
67 - Cat vocalizations - talking cats - excessive meowing
Cats
produce various types of vocalizations. These range from the
common meow, to cat calls, to hissing etc. When cats meow several
times in a row or for an extended period we humans call
that talking. Different breeds "talk" more than
other
breeds.
Most notably
the Oriental breeds such as the Siamese, or mixed breeds with some
Oriental heritage are known to be good vocalizers.
Cats
usually vocalize because they want something like food, rubs
or a good brushing. Often though what they want is for you
to pay attention to them. Occasional meowing throughout the day
is cute and part of many cats' normal behaviour. It does become
a problem however in the middle of the night
when you
are
sleeping. The rule
of thumb is this: Any type of attention or response to a cat's
meowing or talking, is a reward for the cat. Scolding, yelling,
or shushing can equal reward times three. The best way to discourage
the behaviour is to give no reaction when it meows and EXTRA
attention and reaction when it's quiet. If the problem is in
the middle of the night get
a pair of earplugs but never react. If
you've
tried
the silent
treatment
and the cat still over meows at inappropriate times you can try
squirting it with
a water
bottle from under your bedroom door. This should work well as
long as the cat does not know that the punishment is coming from
you. The goal is for the cat to associate meowing at your door
with a squirt.
There
are circumstances when you should be more considerate if you
cat is vocalizing more than usual. Cats
can become vocal when they are in a transitional phase like
a move or the death of someone in the family or another cat.
Try to provide extra love and support during these times by
giving the cat more attention along with a few extra
cat toys
or treats. Again, give this extra attention when the cat
is quiet, not while it's actually doing the vocalizing.
Extra
tip:
Cats often hide illness until they are extremely sick.
This is due to the
fact that in the wild, a sick cat (weakened) is an easy target
for other predators.
If your cat is not a regular talker and has recently started
meowing excessively, this could well indicate a serious physical
problem or illness and a vet visit is in order.
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