If bird-watching is your cat’s idea of a good time, it’s possible you’ve heard him chirping. Tail swishing, eyes wide and trained on his potential prey, a series of strangely adorable sounds emits from your furry companion. Chirping, also known as chattering, sounds nothing like your cat’s usual meow. But don’t be alarmed if you’ve never heard your cat chirp before.

While some frisky felines are chatterboxes, others are silent and stealthy. So, what’s the cause of this unusual sound? Why do cats chirp? And more importantly, what do these unusual noises mean?

Why do cats chirp?

As with many cat behaviors, we’re still trying to understand precisely why cats chirp. However, cats seem to chirp out of excitement.

You can understand this if you watch your cat’s body language when he’s chirping. Chances are, his eyes are wide and focused on something, and he may have stretched his head out, trying to get a better view of what’s going on. You might notice that your cat flicks his tail, crouches down, and tenses his body. There’s an intense focus behind this behavior.

If your cat chirps when he sees you, he may be greeting you or trying to get your attention. You’ll probably notice those same signs of eagerness and focus, but your cat might be slightly more relaxed, walking around or even rubbing against your legs. He may be chirping to say hi or hoping to get you to feed him or play with him.

How to recognize when your cat is chirping

When cats chirp, it almost sounds like they’re mimicking a bird. They often make a short series of peeps or trills, and the sound seems to come from the back of their throat. Some cats chirp while barely opening their mouth, while others develop more of an open-mouthed chatter.

Whatever your cat’s style, his chirping is probably a series of sounds directed at something — a bird, a toy, or even you. Chirping is a quieter noise, like an under-the-breath sound, but it’s so unusual that it’s likely to catch your attention when you hear it.

How to react when your cat is chirping

When your cat is chirping at you, the best thing you can do is figure out what he wants. He might want you to pat him or pay attention to him, and he’ll probably reward you by purring and walking around you in circles. Some cats may chirp because they’re hungry and are prompting you to get out the cat food. Try reacting in a number of ways and see if what you do satisfies your cat.

If your cat is chirping at birds frequently, he may be excited by their presence and frustrated that he can’t get outdoors to hunt them. Some cats will go as far as to stalk their prey and attempt to pounce on them through the window.

Not being able to satisfy his natural hunting instinct can be frustrating for an indoor-only cat, so consider finding ways to help your cat “hunt” inside. Toys that squeak and have different textures and movements can help pique your cat’s interest. Playing with toys on a string can give your cat a good workout, helping to keep him healthy and entertained. Even getting a second cat can encourage your cat to stay active, providing him with a playmate.

Are cats stressed when they chirp?

Define stressed. Sometimes, cats chirp when they see prey, like birds or squirrels, but are unable to attempt to pounce. In these situations, a cat is excited to see the small animal but frustrated that they cannot tap into their natural hunting instincts. Cats are natural predators. While we’ve taken the kitties out of the wild and domesticated them, the wild hasn’t completely left the kitties.

Though the cat may be a tad frustrated and disappointed, pet parents should still keep their feline friends inside. Doing so keeps the cat safe from predators and cars. Cats living indoors usually have longer life spans.

Final thoughts on cats chirping

If your cat is chirping, it isn’t a bad thing. He’s communicating, whether that’s with you or with the birds outside the window. Cats use noises to convey all sorts of different things, and in most cases, a cat who is chirping is excited or trying to get your attention.

If you’re attempting to understand why your cat chirps, spend some time watching him and pay attention to his body language. The more carefully you observe your cat, the more you’ll learn about his behavior. You might find that your cat is chirping because he wants something specific, and by playing with him, interacting with him, or even feeding him, you’ll be giving him just what he wants.

It’s tempting to spend some time outside with your cat whenever the weather is nice, and taking your cat outside can give him a nice break from indoor-only life. If you love to spend time on your balcony, it’s natural to consider letting your cat join you, but balconies can be dangerous for cats. In addition to the potential for a fall, balconies have several other risks that you might not be aware of. Understanding how to cat-proof a balcony can help you to make the space safer, so you and your cat can spend a little time outside together.

Will a cat jump off a balcony?

Balconies can be very dangerous for cats because of the possibility of “high-rise syndrome.” Always Compassionate Veterinary Care explains that high-rise syndrome refers to the occurrence of cats falling out of high-rise buildings and needing veterinary treatment. The term originates when the Animal Medical Center in New York City treated more than 100 cats who fell out of high-rise windows. That occurred during just five months in the 1980s and highlights the fact that cats can and do fall out of high structures.

Unfortunately, the same risk affects cats who are on balconies. Cats don’t fear heights, and they do fall off of balconies. Cats might fall when they’re focused on prey, startled, or fall asleep on a railing and roll off. Slippery balcony surfaces are difficult for cats to grip, so cats can fall easily.

While cats’ reflexes help them to turn themselves right-side-up as they fall, cats aren’t always positioned to land well, and if they fall from height, they can injure themselves. Cats can sustain serious injuries in falls from balconies, and some cats won’t survive.

How do I keep my cat from falling off the balcony?

Pet MD recommends that you consider screening in your balcony to help prevent your cat from falling or escaping. A protective screening will need to run from the floor to the ceiling of your balcony, and it will need to be strong enough so that your cat can climb and claw at it without it tearing.

Will my cat be safe on a balcony?

Even if your cat doesn’t fall off of a balcony, the space holds other potential dangers that you need to be aware of. Pet MD highlights that if your cat falls or escapes through the balcony rails, you might have trouble catching him, and he could run away and get lost.

There are other dangers to look for, too. Your cat could be stung by a bee or wasp while outside. If you’re grilling on the balcony, you’ll need to be extra careful to keep your cat a safe distance from the grill. And if you grow plants on the balcony, make sure that none of those plants are toxic to cats.

Why do cats love heights so much?

According to cat behavior experts, cats are inclined to spend their time lounging on balconies because they enjoy having a good vantage point. Cats are instinctively hard-wired to protect themselves from predators, and having the high ground ensures they’re able to sleep peacefully without worrying about being attacked by wildlife.

Additionally, having the height advantage allows them to spot any potential predators before they’re in danger. While this is an intelligent survival mechanism for feral cats, it means our frisky feline friends want to spend time where they probably shouldn’t, like at the top of your Christmas tree.

Can I trust my cat not to jump off the balcony?

While you can’t trust your cat not to jump off the balcony, your cat can go out on a balcony as long as you’re prepared to safely supervise her. Pet MD recommends that you closely examine your balcony set up before bringing your cat out. Implementing the steps above can help to make your balcony safer, but even with additions like a screened-in enclosure, there’s no guarantee that your cat will be entirely safe.

That’s why supervising your cat is so important. You may want to have your cat on a harness and leash when you bring her out, which can give you a little extra control and can help to prevent your cat from escaping if she’s startled or feels tempted to chase any animals he might see.

Balconies aren’t the safest areas for pets, but if you want your cat to be able to join some outdoor time, consider investing in a catio. A catio is designed to keep cats safely contained and to protect them from predators, comes in many different sizes. You can buy a catio that mounts right onto your window, letting your cat freely go outside and come back into your home, or you can buy or build a catio that stands independently in your backyard. Whether you choose to supervise your cat on the balcony or invest in a catio, giving your cat some safe outdoor time can help to prevent boredom and give your kitty a literal breath of fresh air.

There are plenty of big and fluffy cats out there, but one of the best-known breeds fitting this description is the Maine Coon. These cats are not only impressive in size, but they also tend to have fantastic personalities that make them beloved family pets. While purebred Maine Coons are a little more uncommon in rescues and shelters, it’s possible to adopt a Maine Coon mix that still has some of the breed’s distinctive characteristics.

While telling exactly which breeds your cat is can be a little tricky, it’s worth doing some investigative work to better understand your feline’s background and what that might mean for the care he needs during his life.

Where do Maine Coon cats come from?

You may have heard that the Maine Coon Cate originated from a fantastical cross between a feline and a raccoon. Of course, this didn’t really happen, but it could be where they get the name. (Another option, from a ship’s captain who brought the first of these kitties ashore.)

Instead, the cats might hail from Norway, or broader Northwest Europe, as they closely resemble the Norwegian Forest Cat in size and fur. Regardless, this breed has lived in America for at least 150 years and has enjoyed popularity in the colder climates where it puts the fuzzy coat to good use.

What does a mixed Maine Coon cat look like?

Speaking of the Coon cat’s lustrous mane, this feature commonly attracts owners (and could explain their winning streak in cat shows in the 1800s). You’ll find long hair common in many mixes though it certainly varies depending on the parentage and the individual cat. On top of the fur, Maine Coon mixes sport gorgeous fluffy tails and a poofy scruff (sometimes likened to a Shakespearean collar).

Color-wise, there’s a wide range in purebreds and you could throw in another variable when you have mixed ancestry. That means you have a number of options if you determine that one of these cat mutts will suit you and your family.

How big do Maine Coon mix cats get?

According to Vet Street, Maine Coons are some large cats. They can weigh between nine and 18 pounds, though the occasional Maine Coon can grow to be much larger. Additionally, these pretty kitties stand at up to 16 inches tall and 40 inches in length. You would generally spot the Maine Coon right away in a group of other cats.

While these cats are large, your Maine Coon mix’s size will partially depend on the breed of cat that he’s been crossed with.

What is a Maine Coon usually mixed with?

Siamese-Maine Coon Mix, and the Ragdoll-Maine Coon Mix. People frequently go for one of these mixes because the animals turn out healthy, affectionate, and extremely attractive. Always research your breeder if you go that route to ensure they’re following best practices or adopt from a shelter.

How can I tell if my cat is a Maine Coon mix?

According to Schertz Animal Hospital, the only way to tell if your cat is part Maine Coon is to have your cat genetically tested. Genetic tests for cats use saliva or blood to provide an estimate of your cat’s breed. You can order the test and have a kit shipped to you, or our veterinarian might have tests at their office and could perform the testing for you. It typically takes about six to eight weeks before you’ll receive your results, so you’ll need to be patient.

Your vet might also be able to help you identify common Maine Coon characteristics in your cat. You can look for features like a long coat that sheds often, a large size up to 16 inches tall, and a highly social nature. While these features can’t confirm that your cat is a Maine Coon mix, they can help to narrow down some options and might suggest that it’s worth having some genetic testing done to confirm your suspicions.

If you adopted your cat from a shelter[/internal-link], read the documents that you received during the adoption process. Some shelters that take in litters may know what the mother’s breed was, and if the mother was a Maine Coon, that will confirm your suspicions. Other times, shelters have very limited information on a cat’s background, so you may or may not be able to confirm your cat’s breed through that paperwork.

Why it matters if you have a Maine Coon mix

Knowing that your cat is a Maine Coon mix can be helpful because it can help you to better care for your cat. Maine Coons are predisposed to some health issues. According to ASPCA Pet Insurance, Maine Coons can inherit a form of heart disease and a genetic disorder called spinal muscular atrophy. Hip dysplasia can also be a concern.

When you know that your cat is part Maine Coon, you and your vet can monitor and test your cat for these health issues. When you spot the health issues early, you can better manage and treat them, helping to keep your cat healthy.

Maine Coons can be fantastic pets, thanks to their social and gentle nature. If you have a cat who’s a Maine Coon cross, chances are he’ll have some of these same qualities. While you’ll need to genetically test your cat to confirm exactly which breeds he is, this genetic testing can be a good idea. It can provide you with valuable information about your cat’s breeds, and that, in turn, alerts you to any corresponding health issues that you might need to watch for. With this extra information, you can better understand not only some of your cat’s tendencies but also why he behaves the way he does and the specific care he may need to be able to thrive and live a long, happy life.

If your cat throws up after eating grass, there’s probably no reason to be concerned. Eating grass is a natural behavior for most cats, and throwing up after eating that grass also is pretty common. There are physical reasons for why your cat throws up grass, and aside from dealing with the inconvenience of having to clean up cat vomit in the house, this behavior usually isn’t a problem.

But excessive vomiting and unusual grass consumption can be a cause for concern. If your cat likes to munch grass, then it’s best to familiarize yourself with what’s normal and what might be a reason to worry.

Why cats eat grass

Cats eat grass for many reasons:

• Grass can have a natural laxative effect, helping to relieve stomach upset and supporting digestion.
• Grass contains fiber, which can help keep your cat’s digestive system moving and healthy.
• Grass also contains folic acid, and your cat may instinctively eat grass to get a nutritious boost.
• Eating grass can be entertaining for cats, too. Your cat may simply enjoy having something to munch on and might eat grass out of boredom, just like you might munch on potato chips while watching TV.
• In some cases, your cat’s grass eating might be driven by stress. If your cat excessively eats grass, then anxiety could be to blame. In these cases, you might notice that your cat eats grass almost constantly or pairs it with other behaviors like excessive grooming.

Many factors can drive your cat to eat grass, so you’ll need to carefully observe your cat to determine what’s at the root of his behavior.

Why grass makes cats throw up

So why do cats throw up after eating grass? Cats’ digestive systems don’t contain the enzymes to properly digest grass, so vomiting is a natural part of the process. This behavior is an instinct that helped keep wild cats alive. When cats relied on hunting for their food, they would have consumed their prey’s bones and hair, too. Eating grass helped induce vomiting, so cats could throw up those waste elements that they couldn’t digest.

If your cat loves to eat grass and then often throws up after, chances are he just knows that grass can help ease digestive upset and is a natural way to get himself feeling better.

Signs you should be concerned about

Because cats can’t digest grass, there usually isn’t a reason to be concerned if your cat vomits after eating grass. But eating grass can sometimes cause other issues.

• Grass can potentially get stuck in your cat’s nasal chambers at the back of his nose, making for an uncomfortable situation. Your cat may sneeze in fits, and your vet will need to help by removing the grass.
• If your cat eats grass obsessively, it can lead to excessive vomiting and may indicate that your cat is dealing with significant anxiety. It’s best to take your cat to the vet for an evaluation. Your vet may be able to help you get to the root of your cat’s anxiety, so you can get him feeling better.
• There’s also the potential danger of your cat consuming plants that he shouldn’t when he’s outside. Grazing on grass that’s been treated with pesticides could lead to significant digestive upset or toxic effects for your cat. Your cat might also munch on outdoor plants that are toxic, like lilies. If your cat is experiencing toxic effects from something he ingested, get him to the vet immediately for treatment.

Safer alternatives for eating grass

If you want to give your cat a risk-free alternative to grazing in the backyard while providing the stimulation he craves, we recommend cat grass, which is readily available online and in many local pet stores. Other cat-safe alternatives include Alfalfa, fiber-rich oat grass, and cat thyme. Who knew a thyme plant existed for cat consumption? Another alternative is licorice root, though it should be avoided if your cat takes blood-thinning medications.

While eating grass does have benefits for cats, letting your cat eat whatever grass he finds outdoors can be risky. It’s a much better option to buy or grow your own cat grass indoors, so you can feed your cat a pesticide-free product that you know is safe for him. This also lets you better monitor how much grass your cat is consuming. Providing your cat with cat grass can help keep his digestive system healthier, making him more comfortable, too. While vomiting sometimes comes with the process, cleaning up the occasional vomit pile is a small price to pay for your cat’s health and comfort.

When you share your life with cats, you’ll hear them make all sorts of different noises. Meowing, purring, and even hissing or growling are all sounds that your cat uses to communicate. But there’s another noise that your cat may use and reserve for special occasions and special people. Have you heard your cat trilling? And have you wondered just what this distinct sound means?

The trill is a less common vocalization, but if your cat trills at you, you’re a lucky person. Why do cats trill? This is how to recognize cat trilling — and why it’s such a good sign.

What is cat trilling?

Cats make many sounds to communicate with humans and other cats, and you’ve probably heard many of these noises already. While meows, hisses, purrs, and growls are common and easily recognizable, trilling is a sound that cats tend to make less often. You may or may not have heard it, and it can easily be mistaken for another sound.

Trilling is a little bit meow and a little bit purr. You might describe it as a “brrr.” If your cat could roll their R’s, that’s what a trill would sound like. It’s a high-pitched sound, and your cat will keep their mouth closed when they make it.

Your cat might trill all the time, or you might never hear them make this sound. Both situations are perfectly normal. Some cats are highly vocal and use the trill constantly to communicate. Others are much more reserved and never seem to discover or care to use this vocalization.

When do cats start trilling?

We aren’t completely sure when it started, but some experts believe that cat trilling starts off as a way for mother cats to make her kittens pay attention and follow her where she needs them to go. Not long after, kittens may begin to mimic the same high-pitched sound to gain their mother’s attention. Kittens have the ability to produce sounds from birth, but experts say deliberate purring and trilling begins at around 3 weeks of age, and they become much more vocal as they learn to walk and play.

Why do cats trill?

While humans aren’t yet 100% certain of just why cats trill, they appear to do it for several different reasons.

• A greeting: Your cat may trill in greeting when you or they have just walked into the room.
• To get attention: Similarly, your cat may trill at you to get your attention. If you find your cat trilling when you’re making dinner, watching TV, or working on your laptop, then it’s probably to make you take notice. Chances are, your cat may pair trilling with head butting you or walking circles around you and wrapping their tail around your legs. These can be clear “follow me” or “pay attention to me” signals.
• They want to mate: It’s also possible that cats trill for reproductive reasons. Female cats may trill to catch the attention of a mate. Females may also trill to their kittens to get their attention and encourage them to stay close or follow them.

Why trilling is a good thing

If your cat is trilling at you, then chances are they’re happy to have you around. Trilling can be a sign of affection, and your cat is giving you a special greeting. Trilling isn’t all that common, so if you’re lucky enough to hear your cat make this sound, take it as a compliment. And if your cat trills at you regularly? That’s even better and probably means your cat enjoys your company and is showing you how much they like you.

Trilling is far from the only vocalization you’ll hear your cat make. If your cat is happy, affectionate, or trying to get your attention, you may hear them chirp or meow. Some cats may meow persistently, incorporating the occasional trill as they try to engage you. Purring is often a sign that your cat is content. Your cat might be dozing on your lap and purring, but if you shift or wake them, that purr might turn into a trill to say “hi.”

Cats communicate in many ways. In addition to these vocalizations, you can watch your cat’s body language to get a sense of how they’re feeling. Your cat’s body language can help confirm the messages behind some of their vocalizations, allowing you to better understand what they’re trying to tell you. Consider taking a few minutes each day to research and review common cat body postures and movements. You’ll learn to better read your cat’s facial and overall body expressions. The process will take some time, but if you carefully watch your cat, you’ll be able to understand them and communicate with them more clearly and effectively.

In most cases, your cat probably roams around the house at night. They might visit you in bed, hunt for any bugs that have gotten into your home, or try to start a game of tag with your dog or other cat. But sometimes it’s necessary to restrict your cat’s movement.

Crating a cat at night can help with injury recovery, can aid in litter box training, and might even be necessary to help keep your cat safe. If you’re considering crating your cat, you’ll need to be prepared with the right type of crate and introduce it carefully to help your cat learn to accept it. Crating a cat isn’t always easy, but these tips can better your chances of success.

Reasons for crating a cat

There are a number of situations where it can be helpful to crate your cat. Some are temporary, while others may be long-term solutions, such as when your cat disrupts your sleep.

To keep a new kitten safe. If your kitten is constantly exploring the house, they could potentially get into a dangerous situation while you sleep. Crating them can help prevent this and keep them safe while you’re not around to supervise them.

To aid in healing. If your cat is recovering from an injury or surgery, it might be necessary to restrict their movement so they can fully heal.

To help with litter box training. By keeping your cat in a crate with a litter box, they can’t go off and urinate elsewhere. They’ll be more likely to use the litter box than soil their bedding since they’re in such close proximity to it. Crating your cat can help them get used to the initial process of litter box training or be a tool when dealing with inappropriate urination.

To get a good night’s sleep. Some cat owners may crate their cats at night because their kitties otherwise disturb their sleep. By crating your cat, you’ll prevent them from getting into bed with you and waking you up. Keep in mind, though, that some cats don’t like being crated and will make plenty of noise to keep you up until you let them out again.

To encourage a new mother cat to accept her kittens. If you’re using a crate for this purpose, you can leave the cat in the crate for longer periods, but it’s important to use a large crate that offers your cat and the kittens enough space.

Tips for successfully crate training a cat

If you feel that your cat would benefit from spending time in a crate, these tips can help make the transition easier for you both.

Introduce the crate gradually. This can increase the chances that your cat will accept it. Feed your cat treats and meals in the crate while the door is open. As your pet gets used to the crate, start closing the door briefly while they’re inside. After just a minute or two, let them out again. The goal is to teach your cat that the crate is enjoyable without making them fearful.

Make the crate a pleasant place to be. Put your cat’s bed on one side of the crate and their litter box on the other side. You’ll also want to get a non-spill water dish, as cats should have access to water at all times.

How long can a cat stay in a crate? In most cases, it’s best to leave your cat in the crate only overnight. They will be more comfortable moving around and stretching out freely in an unrestricted space during the day.

What to look for in a crate

The crate you choose can contribute to your cat’s comfort and safety. First, look for a crate that’s large enough for your cat’s litter box and food and water dishes while still affording your cat a separate sleeping area. A larger dog kennel is often ideal, giving your cat enough space while still being small enough to fit easily into your home.

An optimal crate will be made of strong metal and will have multiple latches that curious and clever paws can’t operate. Choose a crate that has a spacious door, so it’s easy to get your cat in and out. A crate with a waterproof, removable bottom that you can scrub down and wash is a must.

Should all cats be crated?

While there are plenty of arguments in favor of crating cats at night, not all cats benefit from crating. Just like us, cats have their own distinctive personalities. Some cats may develop emotional problems like depression if they’re crated nightly. Other cats are largely nocturnal and may spend the night attempting to escape. Only you and your vet know what’s best for your cat, and some cats find being crated more upsetting than calming.

Crating a cat at night can be beneficial in some situations. It can be helpful while you’re litter box training a kitten or important for keeping your cat safe. Carefully introducing your cat to the crate can help them feel comfortable in the space, but there’s no guarantee that your cat will accept it.

Some cats will never be happy in a crate and may stress and fuss until you let them out again. While crating can be helpful, it’s not worth it if it causes your cat too much stress. Remember, it’s essential to prioritize your cat’s safety, and you may need to find another solution to the issue you’re facing.

It’s not exactly news that cats communicate with humans by meowing, In fact, you may have already learned to recognize what each of your cat’s meows means. If your cat stops meowing, though, you might have a problem.

Some causes of this odd change are normal and harmless — and some will even resolve quickly — but there are also potential causes that can be much more serious. This is why it’s important to get your vet involved early on. If you’re wondering “why doesn’t my cat meow?” you’ll want to get to the bottom of the issue to determine whether your cat needs additional help.

Why doesn’t my cat meow? Emotional upset could be the cause

If you think that “my cat doesn’t meow,” it might be because they’re stressed or upset. If your cat is experiencing significant change, like having just moved into a new home, they may be staying quiet out of fear. The same is true if you’ve recently brought a new pet home. Your cat may be trying to avoid the new pet and any resulting fights that could occur if they meow and make noise. Alternatively, something like the loss of a companion or a recent illness could cause a kitty to feel shut down and quiet.

If you suspect your cat has stopped meowing because they’re upset, it’s important to find ways to support them through this time. They are letting you know something’s wrong, and you may need to make changes to help your kitty. That could mean giving your cat their own secure space in the house where other pets can’t go or using pheromones to help promote a calm mindset during highly stressful times. Once your cat feels better and more confident, they’ll probably be back to their regular vocal self.

Cats can experience sore throats and strained voices, too

If your cat has recently stressed the vocal cords, your pet might not meow for a few days. This may be the case if your cat meowed incessantly at neighborhood cats through the window for a long period. They may have strained their vocal cords, but should recover quickly.

It’s also possible that a recent surgery could have aggravated your cat’s vocal cords. Vets insert a tube through a cat’s throat to ensure that the animal receives plenty of oxygen while anesthetized. Sometimes this tube can irritate the throat and lead to inflammation (some people experience this too!) and your cat essentially loses their voice for a few days.

Illnesses can cause a cat not to meow for a while

Some feline illnesses can also cause your cat to stop meowing. Upper respiratory infections could cause laryngitis in cats, though this is somewhat uncommon. In addition to losing their meow, you might notice your cat is coughing and sneezing, or they might lose their appetite.

Allergies can also cause wheezing and sneezing and may reduce or stop your cat’s meowing.

If you suspect that your cat is sick, schedule an appointment with your vet right away. With treatment, your cat will usually start meowing again once they’re feeling better.

Injuries and other physical issues can make meowing difficult

Sometimes your cat may injure their throat or voice box. If they got a stick or piece of a toy stuck in their throat, this could have caused nerve damage and other irritation. Older cats sometimes experience a condition called laryngeal paralysis in which their voice box stops working correctly. This issue can prevent your cat from being able to meow, but it’s not painful.

If your cat loses the ability to meow, a tumor or growth could also be to blame. A tumor near your cat’s voice box or in the throat may change the meow — or stop it altogether.

Your cat may struggle to meow if they’ve been exposed to inhaled irritants

If your area has been in the thick of summer wildfires — or if your furry friend comes with you on a camping trip, they may be at risk of smoke inhalation. Dust can irritate your kitty’s airway and vocal cords, too, so they don’t need to be sitting next to a campfire to risk vocal irritation.

If your cat inhales something icky, you might notice an immediate response, such as gagging, coughing, or wheezing. Severe cases of inhalation irritation could cause a cat to lose their meow, so don’t hesitate to bring your pet to the nearest veterinarian if you suspect smoke or dust inhalation.

Sometimes, your cat’s loss of meow is completely harmless. It can occur as they age, or it might return in a few days, good as new. But there can be other causes behind this issue that are much more serious and require veterinary attention. If your cat suddenly loses the ability to meow, it’s always a good idea to schedule a vet appointment, just in case. Your vet can thoroughly examine your cat and verify that there is nothing more serious going on that needs additional attention.

Understanding pet behavior can be a challenge, and if you see your cat hissing and growling, knowing what to do can help you deal with it and calm them down. Growling and hissing are natural behaviors for your cat. They’re communicating to you that something is wrong. It’s up to you to determine what’s going on so you can take the right steps to address the issue and help your cat feel better. In turn, the behaviors should stop, and both you and your kitty should feel happier. If your cat is hissing and growling, put these tips to use to help fix the problem.

Try to identify the cause of the cat’s hissing and growling

It’s uncommon to see a cat hissing and growling for no reason. Usually, they are prompted by some sort of issue or change in a cat’s environment. If you can identify this issue, then you can take steps to make your cat feel safe and stop the hissing and growling.

Look for elements that have changed right before your cat started to hiss or growl. Maybe you reached out to pat them and startled them out of a nap, or maybe a child got overly rambunctious while petting your cat. Stressful situations like bringing home a new pet or baby can trigger this behavior, and some cats will hiss or growl when you’re trying to put them in a cat carrier because they know you’ll be taking them to the vet (it’s their own form of protest).

Give your cat some space

If your cat hisses and growls, they’re telling you to back off. Make sure that you and other members of your family listen. The simple act of stepping back and letting your cat be can reassure them and show them that they can establish their own space in the house.

Remember, hissing and growling are natural ways for a cat to communicate, and they don’t always signal that something’s significantly wrong. If your cat is feeling crowded, threatened, or just annoyed, they may hiss as a warning. Listen to that sign because it will often be followed up with a growl and, if your cat still feels threatened, they may strike or bite to make sure their message is understood. In most cases, just backing away will be enough to defuse the situation, and your cat should be able to calm down.

Make new changes gradually

Big changes, like bringing home a new pet, can stress a cat. When your cat is uncomfortable or feeling threatened, they’re more likely to hiss and growl not only at the new pet but also at you.

If your cat is reacting to a big change, like a new pet, then find ways to make that change gradually. Give your kitty a space in the house that’s all their own so they can feel safe. Perform gradual supervised introductions, and most of all, be patient. Even once your cat is well acquainted with a new family member, they may still hiss and growl more than normal until they fully trust that they’re safe with the intruder.

Support your cat with pheromones

If your cat is growling or hissing because theyre stressed, then using cat pheromones may help relieve their stress and reassure them. Pheromones come in multiple forms, and they’re easy to use. Consider getting a spray bottle of pheromones so you can spritz them in the room where your cat happens to be at the time. This option also is a great way to help comfort your cat when you’re putting them in the carrier for a trip to the vet.

You might also consider pheromones in a diffuser, which you plug into a wall outlet. The diffuser will automatically release pheromones periodically throughout the day for ongoing support. This option can be helpful if your cat spends most of their time in a particular room. The diffuser will keep the pheromones present in the room even when you aren’t home, helping to support and comfort your cat.

Head to the vet

Physical pain or illness also can prompt growling and hissing. If you can’t find a reason for your cat’s behavior, or if your cat suddenly starts growling and hissing for seemingly no reason, they may need a trip to the vet. Your vet can do a thorough workup, including palpating your cat’s body for pain, to help identify what might be causing the attitude change. By addressing the cause and relieving your cat’s pain, you should be able to reduce and eventually eliminate your cat’s growling and hissing, too.

Should I ignore a hissing cat?

Most of the time, your cat should be pretty content and not feel the need to hiss or growl. But if they do, your kitty is telling you that something’s wrong, and they’re not feeling safe or comfortable. Carefully watching your cat and monitoring when they exhibit this behavior can give you important clues to its cause. Then, you can act to correct the issue, whether that’s simply giving your cat more space, trying to reassure and calm them, or even having your furry friend evaluated for an underlying pain or health condition. With a little time and effort, you can get your cat feeling safer and happier so they don’t need to hiss or growl.

If you’ve adopted a male cat from a shelter or rescue, chances are your cat is already neutered. But if you’ve gotten your cat from a private breeder or seller, then you might be struggling with the decision to neuter your cat. When making that decision, it’s important to think carefully about the pros and cons of that procedure. Neutering can have a strong effect on your male cat’s behavior, so make sure you know what to expect from un-neutered male cat behavior when deciding on the best option for you and your cat.

What happens if I don’t neuter my cat?

According to VCA Hospitals, un-neutered cats might contribute to the cat population control issue. Millions of cats are euthanized each year because there aren’t enough homes for them, and an un-neutered male cat who comes into contact with an unspayed female can contribute to this ongoing issue.

Un-neutered male cat behavior can include several undesirable habits. Many un-neutered cats spray urine as a way of marking their territory, and they might do this within and outside of your home. An un-neutered cat is also more likely to be aggressive toward another un-neutered male. This is caused by competition between males who are trying to protect their territory, and these fights can result in serious injuries.

Cats that have not been fixed are also more likely to roam and travel great distances, particularly during mating season. This sexual interest may drive your cat to leave home and can increase the chances of his getting lost or injured while traveling.

Do male cats calm down after being neutered?

According to VCA Hospitals, neutering cats can help to reduce some of these negative behaviors. About 90% of neutered cats decrease their roaming habits, and neutering can also reduce fighting between cats. Neutering can also reduce or stop spraying in about 85% of cats who receive the procedure.

How much does it cost to neuter a cat?

If you’re worried about the cost of neutering your cat, it may be less expensive than you think. Having your cat neutered by a private vet costs an average of $200 to $400, but there are less expensive options. Low-cost clinics, which are typically owned and operated by nonprofits, still work with licensed veterinarians to perform the procedure. Ask your vet if they can recommend a low-cost option in your area if you can’t afford the traditional fee. Some low-cost clinics will neuter your cat for under $100. Best of all, you’ll most likely be able to take your cat home the same day.

Why should I neuter my cat?

There are many reasons to neuter your cat. VCA Hospitals explains that neutering can help to prevent unwanted behaviors like spraying and aggression. Neutered male cats often have urine that’s less pungent than the urine of un-neutered cats.

While neutering can change behaviors that are hormone-driven, like spraying and wandering, it won’t affect your cat’s other behaviors. If your cat is naturally overreactive or has a certain temperament, those factors won’t be affected by neutering your cat.

Neutering your cat also means you can safely keep him in a home with other cats. He’ll be less likely to fight with males, and if you have younger female cats who haven’t yet been spayed, you won’t run the risk of your male cat getting the female cat pregnant.

Why should I not neuter my cat?

There may be a few reasons to consider not neutering your cat. The first is if you plan on breeding your cat. Keep in mind that we have an overpopulation of cats, and breeding your pet can contribute to that overpopulation. If you’re a professional breeder working with a purebred cat who has excellent qualities that you want to pass on, then it makes sense to keep your cat intact.

Dr. Eric Barchas tells Catster that there is a link between neutering cats and rapid weight gain after their surgery. This can increase your cat’s risk of developing health issues related to obesity, like diabetes, kidney disease, and heart disease. Keep in mind, though, that carefully managing your cat’s diet and ensuring he gets plenty of exercise each day can help prevent obesity and related health issues.

Final thoughts

When it comes to deciding whether to neuter your cat, it’s important to learn about the pros and cons and to carefully weigh those factors. Your vet can also provide you with information specific to your cat’s health and your unique situation. Be sure to speak with your vet about any concerns you might have, and ask questions about what the surgery is like, what the recovery period is like, and any risk factors that you should be aware of. Because neutering your cat can play a role in his health and behavior, it’s important to make a decision that’s best for your cat, and your vet can help advise you during that process.