As our cats grow older, they often exhibit changes in their behavior which can sometimes be puzzling or even worrisome.
One common change you might have noticed is their tendency to yowl or vocalize excessively, especially after eating. But what does this mean? Is your beloved pet in distress? Or is it simply a normal part of their aging process?
In this article, we delve into this behavior to give you a better understanding of why this might be happening.
Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge and understanding to best care for your senior cat during this stage of their life.
So, sit back, relax, and let’s explore the fascinating world of feline behavior together.
Understanding the behavior of your senior cat
As cats age, they may exhibit a variety of behavioral changes, including a tendency to yowl or vocalize excessively, especially after eating.
This can be confusing and concerning to pet owners. It’s important to understand that this behavior is not necessarily a sign of distress, but it could be an indication of an underlying health problem.
Observing your cat’s behavior and understanding the potential reasons behind it can help you take the best care of your furry friend.
One of the main reasons an elderly cat may yowl after eating is due to age-related conditions such as cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS).
Much like Alzheimer’s in humans, CDS can cause disorientation, confusion, and changes in behavior. Your cat might feel disoriented after eating and start yowling as a result.
An example of this could be my neighbor’s 15-year-old cat, Whiskers, who started yowling after meals when he developed CDS.
Physical discomfort and pain
Another reason for this behavior could be physical discomfort or pain. Conditions such as arthritis or digestive issues can make the act of eating uncomfortable for your elderly cat.
Yowling after eating could be their way of expressing this discomfort. In a real-life case, my friend’s elderly cat, Fluffy, started yowling after meals when she developed arthritis.
Sensory decline
Sensory decline is another factor that can lead to yowling in senior cats. As cats age, they can experience declines in their senses of sight, hearing, and smell. .
After eating, they may feel disoriented or anxious due to these sensory changes, leading to yowling. For instance, my aunt’s cat, Tigger, began yowling after meals when his eyesight started to deteriorate.
When to seek Veterinary help
While occasional yowling after eating might not be a cause for concern, frequent or intense yowling could be a sign of an underlying health issue.
It’s important to consult your vet if this behavior persists or if you notice other changes in your cat’s behavior, eating habits, or overall health.
Your vet can diagnose any potential health problems and recommend appropriate treatments or behavioral interventions.
Remember, every cat is unique and what may be normal behavior for one might not be for another. Always keep a keen eye on your feline friend and never hesitate to seek professional advice when in doubt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, an elderly cat might yowl after eating due to a variety of reasons, ranging from age-related conditions and physical discomfort to sensory decline. Understanding these potential causes can help you cater to your cat’s needs and provide them with the best possible care.
Did you find this article helpful? If so, don’t hesitate to share it on your social networks and help other cat owners better understand their furry friends!
