What Does It Mean When Your Cat Is Constantly Meowing?

Ever wondered, why is my cat meowing so much? From newborn kittens to adult cats, meowing can mean many different things. Kittens meow to their mothers when they want attention, need food or milk, or are cold. Meowing for kittens is normal. 

When cats get older they can meow for a variety reasons—they may be seeking attention or trying to communicate with people. There can also be more serious reasons for the meowing, which may include illness, loneliness, or stress. It is important to spend time with and monitor your cat every day to ensure that they’re in good health. If you notice they are meowing excessively, this could indicate a need to see the vet.

Here’s what you need to know if your cat meows a lot or won't stop meowing.

Meowing vs yowling

Yowling is generally louder and more aggressive than meowing. Wondering why is my cat yowling? Cats yowl to communicate with other cats, while they meow to communicate with people. If your cat is yowling, they could be in heat or staking out their territory in the neighborhood.

Top reasons why cats excessively meow 

Kitten Meow GIFfrom Kitten GIFs

Cats can meow excessively for a variety of reasons, the more serious of which include illness, loneliness, stress, pregnancy, or old age. Or, your cat might simply be looking for attention or wondering why their food bowl is empty. Here’s how you can tell the difference and understand why your cat won't stop meowing: 

Loneliness 

If your cat spends many hours alone during the day, they may feel lonely. This can be easily remedied by asking a friend or neighbor to spend some time with your pet. You can also consider putting a bird feeder outside a window or leaving different toys out for play. Or, adopt another pet!

Hunger

Cats meow to communicate with people. A hungry cat may meow every time someone walks into the kitchen, hoping to be fed. It’s basically their way of saying, “Hey, human! I’m hungry!” 

Many cats get very vocal near their feeding time. To help reduce this kind of behavior, wait until they stop meowing before feeding them. If you don't give them any food when they meow, they will learn that this tactic doesn’t work to get your attention. Another easy way to solve this problem is to get an automatic cat feeder that dispenses food based on a customizable schedule. 

Seeking attention

Some cats don’t like being ignored or left alone, so they’ll meow to get your attention. Remember that it is important to spend quality time with your cat every day—don’t ignore them! Preferably, you will spend 5-10 minutes playing with your cat each day and give them plenty of cuddles.

Health or medical issues

If your cat meows excessively after you’ve ruled out hunger and attention-seeking behavior, you’ll want to take them to your veterinarian for a checkup. Any abnormal behavior is a sign that something might be wrong. Common issues cats can develop include urinary disease or anxiety, so a good first step is to check for any health issue. Many issues can cause stress or pain, leading to excessive meowing. 

Mating

When cats want to breed they make a lot of noise. Females yowl when they are in heat, while males yowl when they smell a female in heat. They can get very noisy and disturb not only you, but others in the neighboring area. A good way to prevent this type of meowing is to get your pet spayed or neutered.

Old age

Senior cats can suffer mental confusion or cognitive dysfunction. They can become disoriented and cry without any apparent reason, especially at night. Try a nightlight to prevent disorientation at night or contact your veterinarian to help ease any discomfort they’re feeling.