Why does my cat constantly meow? 7 reasons and remedies

Updated 03/09/2024

The occasional meow here and there is cute, but when your cat’s chatter turns excessive, it can begin to disrupt your daily life. So why is your cat constantly meowing? Here are seven paw-sible explanations...

Why does my cat constantly meow? 

To get your attention

If your cat is constantly meowing, there’s a chance they’re feeling lonely or in need of some attention. Whether it’s extended playtime, extra cuddles on the couch, or a little heart-to-heart, spending more time with your kitty cat can really help. If your furry friend likes to meow while you’re sleeping, try tiring them out with a play session before bed. 

Attention-seeking behavior is common in cats who feel neglected or forgotten. They may seem aloof, but cats still like to have people around – even if they position themselves on the other side of the room from you. That’s why getting an in-home cat sitter is the best option while you’re away – you won’t have to worry about them getting lonely and you can enjoy peace of mind knowing they’re in loving, caring hands. 

To tell you they’re hungry

Meowing excessively might be your kitty’s way of telling you they’re hungry, even if they’ve just eaten. It’s best to avoid rewarding this behavior with food unless it’s time for a meal, as cats learn quickly and this will only encourage more meowing.

They’re feeling scared or threatened

There are plenty of scary noises or situations that can make cats meow more, from loud noises like thunder and fireworks to the arrival of a new family member. If your cat is meowing a lot, try to identify what’s stressing your furry friend out and do what you can to alleviate their anxiety. For example, if your purr pal’s feeling threatened by the arrival of a new puppy or baby, introduce them gently and ensure your furry feline still receives plenty of attention so they don’t feel left out. Playing soothing music can help drown out scary noises, and offering comfort and companionship can ease their fears.

It’s mating season

Unneatuered or unspayed cats are notorious for their noisy behavior during mating season – female cats may yowl for one week out of each month while a male cat might meow at any female they know is in heat. Many pet parents opt to get their cats spayed or neutered to avoid any furry surprises, and this can sometimes stop excessive meowing, too. 

To communicate with other cats

Do you have a young kitten and find yourself wondering “Why is my cat excessively meowing?”. Kittens often meow to communicate with other cats, but the good news is that as they grow older, they usually find other ways to express themselves such as yowling, hissing, and growling.

They’re sick or in pain

Health issues like an overactive thyroid, kidney disease, injury, or arthritis could be the reason your cat meows constantly. If your cat cries all the time and you suspect this is due to illness or pain, seek veterinary help immediately.

Old age

As cats age, they may develop feline cognitive dysfunction syndrome, which causes symptoms like behavioral changes, disorientation, and excessive vocalization. Declining eyesight and hearing can also lead to confusion and more meowing. The best thing to do is ensure your senior cat is comfortable and speak to your vet for advice on managing age-related issues.

So why does my cat constantly meow? The bottom line is that excessive meowing in cats should never be ignored, and it’s important to understand the root cause of your cat’s constant chitter chatter. Purr pals should never be punished for being vocal, but remember not to reward them with treats either, as this is likely to encourage them to meow even more. If in doubt about why your cat meows all the time, consult your vet for a thorough medical checkup.

Meet our veterinary expert, Emma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Emma Chandley, BVetMed MRCVS PGCertSAS. Emma graduated from the Royal Vet College in London in 2011. She has a keen interest in surgery and went on to do a postgraduate certificate in small animal surgery and was then awarded advanced practitioner status in the same discipline.