Cats are certainly a mystery to their owners. Their behavior and communication may not be as easy to understand as that of dogs or other animals. One such issue is their ability to cry. Although anecdotal stories about crying cats exist, cats do not actually cry in the sense that they shed tears. However, there are certain signs and behavioral changes that may indicate that your pet is sad or in pain.
Tears in cats: facts and myths
Cats have tear ducts similar to ours, but they have a different function – lubrication and protection of the eyes. If your cat has watery eyes or shows signs of tears, it is most likely due to eye irritation or some medical condition, not an emotional condition. For example, allergies, a foreign object in the eye, or even cat flu can cause similar symptoms.
Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, a veterinarian at the University of Nottingham, explains, “Cats don’t cry from sadness like people do. Moistness around the eyes, hair loss in that area, red eyes and tear accumulation are all signs of a problem. They don’t cry in the human sense of the word, but it’s an important symptom to consider.”
Expressions of sadness in cats
Although cats don’t cry tears, they can show sadness and discomfort in other ways. For example, frequent and unusual vocalizations may indicate that your pet is unhappy or in pain. Studies have shown that cats have evolved their meows to sound similar to a human baby’s cry, making them difficult to ignore.
Why do cats meow?
Excessive meowing and howling in cats may be an attempt to express something. In most cases, it is related to hunger. However, this behavior can also indicate a need for attention or help. Constant loud meowing or howling can be a sign of pain, discomfort or even a mental disorder such as anxiety. Aging cats may also have a cognitive dysfunction syndrome similar to dementia, which can lead to frequent meowing.
Cat activity
Cats are crepuscular animals, which means they are most active at dawn and dusk. Therefore, your pet may be noisier in the evening and in the morning before you wake up. This is normal behavior for cats, and each cat has its own individual characteristics and habits.
Taking care of your cat
Every cat is unique, and the owner should be alert to changes in his or her cat’s behavior. If you notice obvious changes, such as frequent or loud meowing, it is advisable to see a veterinarian. He will be able to analyze your cat’s condition and identify possible causes of behavioral changes.
In conclusion, although cats do not cry tears, they may show sadness and discomfort in other ways. It is important to be alert to changes in your pet’s behavior and seek help if you notice unusual behavior or symptoms of illness.
