by Erin M. Ritz

Created on: January 17, 2009   Last Updated: April 01, 2011

When your cat purrs, is he always telling you that he's happy? Much of the time, people think that their cat's purring is a sign of contentment. They snuggle in your lap, look up at you with that adoring gaze, and let out a few soft purrs.  Although it is often the case that they are happy, the purr can also be a sign that the cat is stressed. A cat might start purring when he has been violently injured. The vibrations caused by the purring acts as a soothing defense mechanism against stress. Just as humans might practice different breathing techniques to reduce stress, a cat will begin to purr continuously. 

Meowing is another way for a cat to talk to his owner. When your cat meows, he is most often looking for attention. During the day, this is normal. You can feed him, play with him, or pet him. At night, it can be downright annoying if you cat is constantly meowing and keeping you awake. One tip if he is meowing at night do not pay attention! Try to ignore him (earplugs work well) because any attention that you give him is seen as a reward. Even yelling or scolding at your cat for meowing in the middle of the night is rewarding for him because it is attention. Positive or negative, he doesn't care as long as you are awake with him. Try ignoring him when he is meowing, but then give him some attention, like a good rub, when he quiets down.

In some cases, the cat's meow could be a sign that something is seriously wrong. If you cat does not usually meow, and then starts meowing often, he could be trying to tell you that he is sick and needs to see a veterinarian. Cats are very good at hiding illness, due to their natural instinct not to bring attention to themselves when they are weak. However, if your cat becomes very ill, his unusually excessive meowing could mean that he is trying to say "take me to the doctor, please." Be aware of your cat's normal behaviors so that you can catch signs of serious illness.

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