Does your new kitten keep you up at night? Does your cat constantly meow for no reason? Well, just as humans and other animals make noise in order to communicate your cat may be trying to send you a message.

Greetings! – Cats often meow as a greeting when you get home, when they meet you somewhere in the house, or as a response to something.

Attention seeking – Your cat may be dying for some social interaction. If they want to be petted, stroked, played with, or paid attention to, cats can begin meowing. After spending long periods of time alone, they may be especially likely to meow for your attention.

Feed me! – Cats can be demanding when hungry. Some cats may learn to meow when their owner’s enter the kitchen as a means of asking for food. Others meow at breakfast and dinner time, or when people are gathered around the table to beg for food.

In or Out – Cats who want to be let in or out of a house may meow or scratch at the door. Cats are especially prone to meow when being trained to stay either inside or outside. If they are not used to one or the other, they will meow incessantly at a door or window to be let back in (or out). This can be a difficult transition time, and the meowing may last for weeks or months at a time.

Mating – Many cats meow when searching for a mate or when in heat.

Confusion – Elderly cats suffering from dementia may meow if disoriented or confused. This may be a symptom of feline Alzheimer’s disease, and a trip to your feline’s physician may be necessary.

Meows are just another form of communication. All animals must communicate, and most meowing is normal feline behavior. If their meowing becomes incessant, always consult your veterinarian.