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My cat is suddenly meowing sadly and howling early. What's wrong?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | 1 year and 11 months old

My cat is howling and is meowing in the early morning (4-5 am). He sounds really sad at times. The sad meowing just started today. And he has been more verbal even though he is a verbal cat. I'm not sure what's wrong. Is it health issues or is it something else?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Published on August 25th, 2017

If Toby is not neutered it could very likely be related to reaching sexual maturity and a desire to b let our to find a mate.

The only behaviors that will be affected by neutering are those that are under the influence of male and female hormones. So for example, a cat's temperament, training, and personality, are related to genetics and upbringing, not hormones. Neutering does not “calm” an excitable cat, and unless a neutered animal is overfed or underexercised, there is no reason for it gain weight or become inactive.

The undesired traits which are related to theae hormones such as sexual behaviours, aggression, and urine marking will change over the course of a few days to a few months.

If Toby is neutered it Cooke be s the first signs of an illness. As cats will often become more vocal when in pain. Feel free to post again if Toby is neutered and you believe this is something more then an unwanted sexual behaviour.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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