Do you ever wonder why your cat spends hours staring out the window, occasionally meowing?
Cat owners worldwide are familiar with this sight; your feline is fixated on something outside, and it seems like nothing can break their concentration.
I have seen this very often with my cat, and sometimes I even catch her bobbing her head and looking at different things moving outside.
Here are some of the reasons why they do it:
1. Hunter Instincts
Cats are natural hunters with a strong instinct to hunt and catch prey.
Staring out the window provides cats with entertainment and mental stimulation.
Your cat may meow in response to birds or other animals that it spots outside as she imagines the thrill of chasing and catching them.
2. Curiosity
The world outside your home can be fascinating to them, and windows offer your cat an exciting view of this world beyond their reach.
She may meow in response to what she sees, expressing her fascination and desire to explore.
3. Territory Protection
Cats are territorial animals and may stare out the window to monitor for any potential threats to their domain.
They can be protective and may express their concern through meowing, especially if they see an intruder, another cat, or something they perceive as a threat, leading to stress and aggression.
4. Boredom
Just like humans, cats need mental stimulation to keep them happy and entertained.
If your cat is bored and not getting enough physical or mental activity, staring out the window can provide a source of stimulation.
Meowing might be a way for her to express her longing for more playtime and fun with you.
5. Seeking Attention
Cats are attention-seekers and have different ways of getting their owner’s attention.
Sometimes meowing is their way of reaching out to their human, especially if they are curious or concerned about something outside the window.
They want you to share in their excitement or assuage their fears.
6. Desire for the Outdoors
Many indoor cats yearn for the outdoors, and the window can be their only connection to the outside world.
When they stare outside and meow, it could be a sign that they’re craving the freedom and excitement that comes with being outside.
7. Sensory Stimulation
The world outside a window provides cats with a wealth of sensory stimulation, from the sights and sounds to the smells.
This sensory input is crucial for their well-being, and staring out the window and meowing could be a sign that they’re enjoying and indulging in this stimulation.
8. Reflections and Shadows
Cats are naturally drawn to movement, and reflections and shadows across the window can be captivating for them.
They may stare for prolonged periods, meowing in excitement as they watch the shadows and reflections.
9. Separation Anxiety
Cats are social animals and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for prolonged periods.
If your cat stares out the window and meows while you’re away, they could be experiencing anxiety and waiting for your return.
10. Health Issue
While staring out the window and meowing is a natural behavior for cats, excessive or unusual behavior could indicate a health issue.
If you notice any changes in your cat’s behavior or are concerned about their staring and meowing, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any health problems.
What to do when your cat keeps looking outside the window and meowing?
To stop your cat from looking outside their window and meowing, you can try some of these:
Provide Distractions: Keep your cat engaged with toys, scratching posts, or interactive games that your cat can enjoy.
Providing stimulating toys to play with and explore can help divert their attention from what’s happening outside.
Create A Comfortable Space: If your cat is meowing because they see another cat outside, it could be due to territory issues. Ensure your cat has a comfortable, safe space inside to retreat.
Cover The Window: If the behavior continues, consider covering the window with blinds or curtains to block the view to reduce tension.
Alternatively, you can use window films that allow light in but obscure the view.
Use Behavioral Techniques: Reward your cat when they’re quiet and ignore them when they’re meowing. Over time, they should learn that quiet behavior gets rewarded.
I have been exploring clicker training lately, and I think when done right, training your cat with a clicker may be a good way to discourage this behavior at the window.
This is just another option you could look into if it appeals to you.
Consult A Vet: If your cat’s behavior doesn’t improve, consult a vet. Excessive meowing can sometimes indicate other problems we may not be aware of.
Here is a really cute video of three cats looking outside their windows and chattering at birds:
My cat spends much of her day looking outside the living room window throughout the day, but she doesn’t meow often and usually observes quietly.
There are other things that can affect how your cat does this, whether it’s because they’re a breed that vocalizes more than other cats or how safe they feel inside your home.
It’s always a good idea to observe your cat carefully and monitor any changes in their behavior, as it can be used to help your vet rule out health or psychological issues if you decide to bring your cat for a vet visit.
Your cat’s meowing and staring out the window may be a sign that they are curious, bored, or trying to express their territoriality.
As a pet owner, it’s important to understand your cat’s behavior and instincts to provide her with adequate physical and mental stimulation.
Understand what your cat needs in order to stay healthy and happy, and practice good pet parenting by providing the love and care she deserves!
The more you understand your cat’s behavior, the better you can provide them with an enriching environment that caters to their needs.