Cats are fascinating creatures, known for their unique ways of communication. They employ various methods, including visible, vocal, tactile, and olfactory signals to convey their feelings and needs. Among these communication methods, vocalization is a prominent and diverse means of expression. In fact, cats can produce up to 21 different vocalizations, each serving a distinct purpose.
Vocalizations can be classified into three primary categories, depending on the cat’s mouth position: closed, open, or open-closing movement. Yowling, a long, loud, and harsh wailing sound, falls into the category of open-closing movement vocalizations. This type of vocalization is utilized in several situations, including expressing the need for food or attention, signaling illness, stress, loneliness, or the effects of aging. Notably, nighttime yowling is frequently observed in older cats.
Interestingly, feral cats tend to be quieter than their domestic counterparts. Research indicates that the more feral cats interact with humans, the more they vocalize in their presence. This behavior is likely due to reinforcement from human interactions.
Cats’ vocal repertoire includes meows, howls, moans, hisses, and gurgles. Yowling, in particular, stands out due to its distinctiveness compared to a regular meow. However, it’s not uncommon for unspayed female cats to yowl during their heat cycles in an attempt to attract a male for mating. This can result in several consecutive days of yowling, which can understandably be challenging for cat owners.
Why Spaying Doesn’t Always End Yowling:
- Immediate Post-Spay Period:
Right after a cat is spayed, she may experience grogginess and confusion due to the lingering effects of anesthesia. In this state, she might yowl, possibly without even realizing it. This vocalization can also be an expression of discomfort if she’s feeling sore or uneasy. Yowling serves as a way for her to voice her displeasure in such situations. - Hormone Balancing Period:
It’s important to note that it can take 6–8 weeks for a cat’s hormones to fully balance after spaying. Although they no longer have physical heat cycles, lingering hormones can make them feel otherwise, leading to continued yowling. This behavior may persist until these hormones settle. - Ovarian Remnant Syndrome:
If several months have passed after a spay surgery and your cat still displays signs of being in heat, she could be suffering from a condition known as Ovarian Remnant Syndrome. This occurs when some ovarian tissue is not entirely removed during the spaying procedure. The remaining tissue produces estrogen, responsible for heat cycles. In such cases, your cat may yowl to signal her heat.
This condition can have serious implications for her health, making it crucial to seek veterinary treatment. Alongside yowling, watch for signs such as restlessness, attempts to escape the home in search of a mate, and increased affection. If you notice these symptoms in your spayed cat, consult your vet, who may perform diagnostic tests to confirm Ovarian Remnant Syndrome and recommend surgery to remove the remaining tissue. It’s essential to address this condition promptly, as leaving it untreated puts your cat at risk of various health issues, including mammary gland tumors, ovarian tumors, cysts, and uterine stump infections.
Other Reasons for Cat Yowling:
- Seeking Attention:
Cats, despite their reputation for independence, can still crave attention. If your cat yowls and engages in vocalizations when you’re around, consider what she might need at that moment. It could be as simple as seeking your attention, affection, or expressing hunger. Loneliness can also prompt yowling, especially if you’ve been away for an extended period. In such cases, interacting with your cat using toys, catnip, treats, or cuddling can alleviate her boredom and desire for companionship. - Stress & Fear:
Major household changes, such as moving or introducing a new pet, can stress your cat. Loud noises, like thunderstorms or fireworks, can also induce fear. Yowling often becomes a means of communication when your cat is overwhelmed by stress or fear. In scenarios like car rides, where cats might be stressed or experiencing motion sickness, providing a quiet and safe space for your cat within the vehicle can help ease their distress. It’s important to stay calm and speak softly to your cat during such situations, as they can sense your energy. Reassurance is vital in reducing stress-related yowling. - Territorial Behavior:
Just like male cats, female cats can exhibit territorial behavior. If you’ve recently introduced a new family member or pet into your home, your spayed cat may yowl out of jealousy. Physical attempts to separate you from the newcomer indicate her territorial claim. When introducing new animals to your cat, consult your veterinarian or animal behavior specialists for guidance to minimize territorial aggression. - Cognitive Issues:
Older cats may experience cognitive dysfunction or dementia, leading to increased vocalization, often at night. Accompanying signs might include disorientation, reduced activity, restlessness, irritability, grooming changes, or altered sleep patterns. While there is no cure for this condition, it can be managed with the help of a veterinarian. If you notice these signs in your cat, seek professional advice to improve her quality of life. - Pain:
If you can’t identify a specific reason for your spayed female cat’s yowling, consult your vet to rule out potential underlying causes of pain. Cats may use yowling to communicate discomfort when they’re experiencing a health issue, even if they show no other signs. - Thyroid or Blood Pressure Problems:
Thyroid issues can lead to nighttime yowling, along with hyperactivity, increased appetite, thirst, and vocalizations. High blood pressure may manifest as changes in your cat’s eyes, lethargy, breathlessness, and increased thirst or urination.
In conclusion, cats may continue to yowl for various reasons even after being spayed. Understanding the root cause of this behavior is essential in addressing your cat’s needs and ensuring her well-being. If persistent yowling occurs, consulting a vet is the best course of action to rule out any underlying health concerns.
Remember, every cat is unique, and their vocalizations are a valuable form of communication. By paying attention to your cat’s cues and seeking professional guidance when needed, you can foster a happier and healthier bond with your feline friend.
