Why do cats meow?

The meow’s uniqueness doesn’t end there—this special language is reserved just for us—they don’t even meow to communicate with other cats. Cats will purr, yowl, growl and hiss at one another, but not meow—meowing is a behavior found only in kittens. Kittens meow for their mothers, but once mature, they still meow at us (they don’t lose the ability to meow) but not among other cats.

Your cat’s meows aren’t just random noise—they’re expressions of their needs and desires—in other words, a way to communicate with us. Domestic cats have taught themselves a whole new language just so they can “speak” with people. Cats learn at an early age that their usual forms of cat-to-cat communication just don’t work on people, so instead, our intelligent little companions develop a new form of communication that people will respond to—the meow!

But what exactly are they trying to tell us with their meows, and how should we respond?
Whether it’s a gentle hello, a plea for food or a cry for help, each meow has its own meaning. This language is even more sophisticated than you would imagine, with cats using different tones, pitches and intensity of meows to convey different information to us. That’s why when a cat is happy, their meow will sound nicer and even cuter than when they are expressing their displeasure. 

Check out these different meows, what they mean and tips for responding:

Greeting meows:

When your cat greets you with a meow, they’re saying hello and expressing their joy at seeing you. Respond with affection and acknowledgment to reinforce their positive behavior.

Attention-seeking meows:

If your cat meows persistently for attention, resist the urge to scold or ignore them. Instead, wait for a brief moment of silence before responding with affection or playtime. This teaches them that quiet behavior is rewarded with attention.

Mealtime meows:

Cats are well known for vocalizing their hunger, especially around mealtime. Stick to a regular feeding schedule to discourage excessive begging and consider using an automatic feeder to manage their meals.

Requesting access:

Whether they want to go outside or come back in, your cat may use meows to communicate their need to go in or out. Install a cat door or establish a routine to accommodate their needs without reinforcing demanding behavior.

Nocturnal meows:

If your cat wakes you up with nighttime meows, it’s essential to remain consistent and ignore their pleas for attention. This may be challenging at first, but it’s crucial for breaking the cycle of nighttime disturbances.

Cat owners can become experts at interpreting their cat’s different meows, identifying exactly what they need just from the sound of the meow alone. While some meowing is normal, excessive vocalization may indicate an underlying issue. Monitor your cat’s meowing habits and consult with your veterinarian if you notice any sudden changes or persistent meowing.

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