Hi! We moved to a new apartment two weeks ago and our 1-year-old cat has been extra meowy since. He seems completely normal otherwise: eating, drinking, playing, and eliminating. We are trying to spend more time with him to help him adapt to a new place and we got a Feliway diffusor to hopefully help with relaxation. Could his meowing be related to the move? If so, is there anything gwe can do to help him get used to a new place?
Hi Lisa
Congratulations on your move. I’m sorry to hear about your cat’s excessive meowing.
I agree, it could be related to the move. Here are a few things you can try to help him get used to the new place:
1. Spreading the cat's scent around prominent areas of the home will help incorporate it into the household odor. Cats usually rub and deposit chemical messages that hold their scent on areas such as door frames, table legs and the corners of sofas. You can replicate this with the cat’s scent manually by ‘collecting’ his scent deposits on a cotton cloth or glove by stroking him with the fabric in the facial gland regions (under the chin and cheeks) and rubbing this cloth or glove on the prominent areas.
2. Provide many hiding options to help him settle in a new environment. Hiding spots can be under a bed, inside a wardrobe, or even inside cardboard boxes that you can position at different locations in the home. Make them snug and private.
3. To maintain continuity and relaxation, stick to the same routine as in your previous home. For now, try to feed small, quantifiable meals.
4. Increase playtime and olfactory enrichment.
5. Purchase Feliway spray and spray it on prominent resources like blankets and bedding before use.
6. Avoid replacing with new furniture until your cat is fully settled in the new environment.
Given that cats are territorial species, it's perfectly normal for them to take a few weeks to months to adapt to a new home.
All the best
Melina
Hi, my cat is 1.4 year and she recently started to meowing in the morning at 5am or 6 but it’s like a screaming. I’ll feed her then I’ll go back to sleep and she will start again. Looking up in the air. Making me think there’s spirits. So weird.
I don’t know what I can do for her.
Hi Gina
Cats make distinct sounds to express their feelings and communicate with us. The sounds of cats can vary between individuals and breeds. Some convey pleasure, comfort, and excitement, while others express frustration, fear, or pain.
Your female cat may be screaming since she is bored and wants your attention or playtime. Cats are much more active in the early mornings during spring and summer, you can try placing her breakfast in a puzzle feeder to keep her from eating too quickly while keeping her stimulated.
Excessive meowing can also indicate distress or frustration since you returned to bed. You can try introducing cat toys for independent play and not getting up since that can inadvertently increase the excessive meowing.
If you notice additional behavioral changes, please consult your veterinarian.
All the best
Melina