Why Doesn't My Cat Meow? - Kitty Help Desk

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The range of vocalizations produced by cats is extraordinary and every household usually develops its own particular dialect. But what about those cats who hardly ever “meow”?

Cats in the wild generally only "meow" as kittens. Other vocalizations like trills, growls, purrs, yowling, hissing, etc. are more common in adults but happen only to communicate particular things, such as” hi there” or "I'm in heat" in Megara's case. Cats find body language and scent to be much more attractive when communicating with other adults because these methods are less likely to attract predators.

We've come to expect adult cats to meow because a great many of them do when they've been raised by humans. Most of us humans are very responsive to sounds, so meows generally work. When we respond to a sound a cat makes, we basically train them to repeat that sound to get our attention.

Cats often develop a language of various sounds with which they effectively communicate with us, though each household usually develops very different repertoires of sounds. A Cornell University study showed that cats use their voices to manipulate their humans. A Swedish researcher has even postulated that cats attempt to imitate sounds their humans make.

So, don't worry about it if your feline friend doesn’t meow. That’s perfectly normal.

Author: Tom Kirby, UW-AAB - cat behaviorist

I’m certified in applied animal behavior and have years of experience solving the specific problems faced by cat caregivers like you every day.

I’m here to help you and your feline friends live happier, healthier lives together.

CLICK HERE to get help with your cat today!

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