Extreme pleading, screaming, yelling, and other actions
One of the most often reported issues with cat behavior is excessive vocalization by cats, including loud meowing or wailing and occasionally other attention-seeking behavior. Each of these behaviors may have a medical or emotional reason, or maybe both, so you should do some study on possible answers.
There are occasions when a cat’s behavior that seems to be a “problem” is actually totally natural. Take into account all the pertinent factors before determining that your cat needs a treatment.
The following is a list of some of the actions that are connected to or mistaken for attention-seeking behavior, as well as their possible causes:
From “Lost in the Night,” howling
Although it is uncertain what causes some cats to behave in this manner, older cats are more prone to do so than younger cats due to cognitive dysfunction (senility) and/or decreased vision or hearing. Another medical condition that can lead cats of any age to call somberly and then suddenly dash around the house with their fur rolling is feline hyperesthesia, often known as rippling skin disorder. Additional medical disorders like hyperthyroidism, malignancy, neurologic disease, and discomfort can also show symptoms of excessive vocalization. For each of these illnesses, veterinary attention and intervention are recommended.
Requesting sweets and food
Although real hunger cannot entirely be discounted, cats are much like us when it comes to addiction. They may be very depressed in their attempts to feed their addiction, particularly when it comes to delicacies like bonita tuna flakes.
Solution
Small, low-calorie snacks, especially those that are high in protein, are a wonderful substitute for food when a cat requests for it. Snacks on occasion are not harmful. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. Multiple small meals spread out throughout the day are better for cats versus one substantial meal in the morning or evening. Plan three or four quick meals from cans and pick up the leftovers 20 to 30 minutes later. If you must feed dry food owing to your cat’s desire or your schedule, provide one small dinner of dry food in the evening that you may leave out for the night.
Your hand or foot is shaking.
Like young children, some cats do require continual attention. When you try to walk, they might circle your legs in the shape of a “8” or paw at your arm while you are sitting.
Solution
Some cats merely need more interaction with people. If the existing cat is the only cat in the house, you might wish to get another one. Otherwise, make an effort to schedule special times to interact with, pet, and snuggle these kitties. Because cats like routine, they might leave you alone if they expect some lap time.
Permanent Meowing
Certain cats can be rather vocal (Siamese and Oriental breeds are famous for this trait). If you don’t truly like the “chatty cat,” save your attention for when they are silent. In reality, many cats enjoy interacting with people and will meow at you if you talk to them or meow at them.
Solution
Enjoy talking to your cat if that’s what you like. But if your cat is ordinarily silent but all of a sudden begins meowing loudly (or if a normally talkative cat suddenly stops meowing), it might be trying to let you know that it is uncomfortable. Or perhaps your cat is gradually losing its hearing. Here, it is advisable to see a veterinarian to rule out any potential medical problems.
Pica
Pica (eating things that are not food) may not always be a technique to get attention, but it clearly does so when it does. Pica, which also resembles wool-sucking or chewing, can be dangerous if plastic or objects that resemble string are consumed. Wool sucking is more common in certain kinds of cats, including Siamese, Burmese, and Himalayan cats, as well as cats that have been prematurely weaned or taken away from their moms. Stress appears to be a common element in cats who have pica.
Solution
Given how frequently stress occurs in cats with pica, it is imperative to rule out or treat stress. An abundance of toys, vertical space, and other types of environmental enrichment, along with routine pet or play sessions in a serene environment, can frequently lower anxiety and stress. In some situations, anti-anxiety medication may be required.
Because certain mineral shortages might also result in pica, make sure your cat’s diet is balanced. As you pick up rubber bands, tiny pieces of plastic, and threads, or by applying bitter apple spray or wrapping to cat-proof electrical wire, it’s important to get rid of the inappropriate chewing/swallowing items.
Inappropriate Scratching
Cats will occasionally continue damaging carpet or furniture even after being given a lot of scratching posts and other “approved” spots to scratch. Cats occasionally use scratching as a poor form of communication.
Solution
Provide your cat with a variety of scratching posts in different shapes and materials so they can select the one they like best. You can also use treats and catnip to attract your cat to the right scratching posts.
Unclean skin with ripples
This illness, sometimes known as feline hyperesthesia, is unknown. It can occasionally be successfully treated with dietary adjustments, the elimination of fleas or toxins (which could become a cause), medication, and/or organized exercise activities for the cat.
Stress and anxiety
In particular if there have been recent changes in the household, some of these attention-getting behaviors, including but not limited to:
- A recent event
- A new pet (cat or dog) owner’s absence due to a trip or a job change, a cat attack by another cat, the cat’s illness, or the owner’s illness.
It is essential to provide your cat with a stimulating environment under these circumstances.
By doing your study, learning about your cat’s regular behavior, and keeping a close look out for any changes, you can encourage your needy cat to quit acting out for attention.
If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your family pet, know the pet’s health history, and may make the best recommendations for your pet.
READ NEXT: 7 Reasons Why Your Cat Eats Paper, and How to Stop It
