Why does my cat meow so much?

Cats are actually relatively quiet animals in their natural social structure — adult cats rarely meow at each other. Meowing is a behaviour cats have developed almost exclusively for communicating with humans. So when a cat meows excessively, it is almost always trying to tell you something specific.

First: when did it start?

A cat that has always been vocal is a different situation from one that has recently become very talkative. Sudden onset of excessive vocalisation, especially in a senior cat, is a medical symptom until proven otherwise.

Medical causes to rule out first

- Hyperthyroidism — the classic presentation in senior cats. Increased vocalisation (especially at night), combined with weight loss despite increased appetite, increased thirst, and hyperactivity. Very common in cats over 10. A simple blood test (T4) diagnoses it.
- Hypertension — high blood pressure (often secondary to hyperthyroidism or kidney disease) can cause confusion, anxiety, and loud vocalisation
- Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (feline dementia) — disorientation at night, getting "stuck," night howling, missing the litter box. Most common over 15 years of age.
- Pain — a cat in chronic pain (dental disease, arthritis, internal disease) may vocalise more. Often low-grade moaning or crying associated with movement.
- Deafness — deaf cats vocalise more loudly because they cannot hear themselves. Check by watching response to sounds behind them.
- Hunger or thirst — ruling out the obvious: is the cat genuinely not getting enough food, or is the water bowl empty?

Behavioural causes

- Attention seeking — particularly in cats whose owners respond to vocalisation by giving food, play, or attention. Once learned, this escalates over time.
- Boredom — an under-stimulated indoor cat may meow persistently, especially when the owner is home but not engaging.
- Heat (oestrus) — unspayed females in season call loudly, sometimes continuously. The solution is neutering.
- Stress or change — new household member, new pet, moved furniture, change in routine.

Management

- Never reward excessive meowing with food or attention — this teaches the cat that the strategy works.
- Ensure all physical needs are met proactively (scheduled meals, play sessions, clean litter box).
- For night vocalisation in seniors: see your vet, as this is often hyperthyroidism or cognitive dysfunction and both are treatable.