Symptom: Excessive Vocalising – Why is my pet being so vocal?
How can I recognise excessive vocalising in my pet?
Excessive vocalising in pets can originate from medical, psychological, or behavioural issues, such as pain, anxiety, or a need for attention.
Excessive vocalising looks like a pet who is meowing, barking, whining, or howling more frequently, for longer periods, or with a different tone than usual, often for no apparent reason.
Written by Dr. Mariella Roberts, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2025 | Review date October 2028 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet
Frequently asked questions
Common reasons for excessive vocalising
- Pain, discomfort or illness
- Hunger or thirst
- Attention-seeking or boredom
- Separation anxiety or excitement
- Cognitive decline (senile dementia)
DO’s – What can I do at home if my pet is being vocal?
- Identify the cause, observe when your pet is vocalising
- Ensure your pet gets plenty of exercise
- Provide mental stimulation
- Reduce exposure to triggers
- Stick to a consistent daily routine, especially for anxiety issues
DON'Ts – What I shouldn't do at home if my pet is being vocal?
- Don't reward the vocalisation with attention, food, or play
- Don't use physical punishment or yell at your pet
- Don't use aversive training methods like spray bottles, shock collars, or other devices
- Don't ignore potential underlying causes
When should I consider taking my pet to the vet
You should contact your vet if your pet's excessive vocalisation is a sudden or unusual change in behaviour, or if it is accompanied by other symptoms that could indicate pain, illness, or severe anxiety.