Clicker training
Clicker training a cat to stop mewing involves using a clicker to get the cat to touch a target. The target can be a chopstick, pencil, or wooden object. The target should be placed in a comfortable area and be near the cat. As soon as the target is touched, the cat will instinctively reach out for the treat. The reward is a treat that is dropped on a plate or tossed in front of the cat. Continual repetitions will develop the behavior.
When the clicker is pressed, the cat will see it as positive reinforcement. This is not the same as punishment, because cats do not respond well to negative reinforcement. Moreover, negative reinforcement can destroy the bond between the owner and the cat.
Getting your cat spayed or neutered
If your cat is constantly meowing, getting her neutered will help reduce her vocalization. Female cats will typically make a very specific meow when they are in heat, so spaying them will end this behavior. Additionally, spaying cats offers many health benefits and does not contribute to the pet overpopulation problem.
Spaying or neutering a cat is an important decision for both you and your pet. Not only will spaying/neutering the cat decrease the cat’s meowing and increase its health, but it will also decrease your pet’s chances of developing certain diseases. Spaying and neutering are both quick and painless procedures, but the longer you wait, the higher the risk that the surgery won’t work.
Rewarding silence with food
Rewarding quiet behavior is one of the best ways to stop a cat from meowing. You can distract your cat with something he loves, such as a new catnip mouse. Or try a puzzle feeder, battery-operated toys, or a paper bag tunnel. These toys will help your cat release pent-up tension and emotions. When your cat stops meowing, reward him with the toy before he tries to start the meowing habit again.
Rewarding silence with food is another effective method for training a cat to stop meowing. However, this method is not suitable for every situation. For example, if you have a child who sleeps, this tactic might not work. In these situations, try using earplugs. In addition, try to avoid distracting your cat by rewarding it with attention. Cats also thrive on a daily routine, so establish a routine that includes regular feeding times, changing the litter box, and playing and petting.
Resetting your cat’s “hunting” clock
If your cat meows a lot during the day, it may be triggered by its internal “hunting” clock. It can be reset by giving it a cat toy during playtime. A wand toy like the Playful Panther can help.
You can also try to ignore your cat while he is engaging in this unwanted behavior. This strategy works well in the long run. But be aware that your cat may be meowing excessively for other reasons, such as illness, distress, or health issues.
