Expert: Dear Tabbi - 7/17/2009

Question
I have a "fixed" male cat who is 4 years old.We found him when he was just a kitten, abandoned by his mother for being a runt. He has always been a talker, but recently he has taken to crying LOUDLY all day and all night. We got him toys to keep him busy during the day, I make sure he gets at least an hour of undivided lovey time every day. I've even started letting him go outside for an hour a day, because he started running out of the house when I walked in (he stays near the house and we live in a pretty rural area.)  

Still he cries and cries! We got a squirt bottle, but now he just goes to the other room and cries where we can't squirt him. I am at the end of my rope. He is healthy, has all his needs cared for- We have another cat, so it isn't loneliness- What can I do?

Answer
Lela,

His behavior is common with alot of neutered males. It usually starts about 3 years old when they start reacting to a female in heat somewhere in the neighborhood/area. A male cat, even an indoor cat, can smell a female in heat a block away and may react in a sexual or vocal (calling) manner even though they have been neutered. It is just a response that some cats have to sexual stimulation. Some cats have a strong 'male mentality' and though they physically can't do anything they mentally can.

When he does that don't get mad at him or scold him because it's nature and he doesn't understand what he is doing wrong. But also don't pet him because that can get him more stimulated. Try to distract him with food or toys. A pet laser light (from PetSmart, Petco, etc.) is an excellent distraction. The behavior should stop when whatever is stimulating him stops.

A cat crying can also be a sign that the cat is in pain. When a cat cries that is his way of telling you something is wrong, either emotionally or physically. You may want to have a checkup done by a vet to be on the safe side.

Tabbi