Why Does My Cat Bark? [Causes & Remedy]

Cats are known for their distinctive vocalizations — from the soft meow to the purr of contentment, each sound holds meaning. But what happens when a cat starts barking? While it may seem like a curious anomaly, this behavior can be perplexing to many cat owners. After all, barking is a trait commonly associated with dogs, not cats. So, when your feline companion starts producing this sound, it raises questions. What’s going on? Why does my cat bark?

Barking in cats is rare, but it is not unheard of. In fact, a cat’s ability to make a variety of vocalizations is one of the many remarkable aspects of its communication system. To truly understand why a cat might bark, we need to dive into the different potential causes behind this unexpected behavior, when it might be a concern, and how best to address it.

Why Does My Cat Bark?

At first glance, a cat barking may seem like an odd and unnatural occurrence, considering cats generally don’t have the anatomical makeup that makes barking typical in dogs. However, a cat’s vocalization is much more diverse than just meowing. Cats can purr, chirp, trill, and even hiss in response to their emotions or external stimuli. Barking, in most cases, is not instinctual for cats, but it may be influenced by several factors ranging from medical issues to behavioral traits.

Understanding why your cat barks requires paying attention to context and frequency. For example, a cat might bark in a specific situation, such as during moments of stress, excitement, or confusion. Alternatively, this could be a learned behavior if the cat has been raised around dogs or has frequently interacted with them. In some rare cases, a cat might even mimic the sounds of its canine companions, especially if it lives in a household where barking is a frequent occurrence.

Common Reasons For A Cat Barking

1. Imitating Dogs: Cats, especially those that grow up alongside dogs, may learn to mimic their behaviors. Dogs are vocal creatures, and a cat that spends a lot of time with one might start to replicate the barking sound. This imitation could be an effort to communicate or simply a result of learned behavior from the dog.

2. Stress or Anxiety: Cats, like humans, can experience stress and anxiety. Changes in their environment, such as the introduction of new pets, moving to a new home, or loud noises, can all trigger an unusual response. A cat might vocalize excessively or produce atypical sounds like barking to express its discomfort or agitation. In these instances, barking can be an indication of fear, nervousness, or distress.

3. Medical Issues: While rare, certain medical conditions can affect a cat’s vocal cords, leading to sounds that resemble barking. Conditions such as laryngeal paralysis, respiratory infections, or even trauma to the throat can alter the typical meow or purr, resulting in a barking-like sound. Cats with these conditions might also exhibit other signs, such as coughing, labored breathing, or a hoarse voice.

4. Excitement or Playfulness: Some cats may produce barking sounds during high-energy play. This could be a sign of extreme excitement or overstimulation. While it may sound like barking, it is often a more exuberant, exaggerated form of vocalization typical of cats that enjoy rough play or are trying to engage their owners in interactive activities.

5. Attention-Seeking Behavior: Cats are clever creatures, and they quickly learn how to get their owner’s attention. If barking has resulted in a response from their human — such as a reaction or increased interaction — the cat might repeat this behavior to keep the attention flowing. In these instances, barking is more of a tool for communication than a natural vocalization.

When To Be Concerned

While some barking behavior in cats can be relatively harmless, there are instances when it signals a more serious underlying problem. As a cat owner, it’s important to differentiate between occasional barking and when this behavior might indicate something more concerning.

1. Sudden Onset of Barking: If your cat has never barked before but suddenly begins to do so regularly, it’s worth investigating. A sudden change in vocalization could be a symptom of a medical issue, such as laryngeal damage or respiratory distress. It may also be linked to stress or anxiety if there has been a recent change in the household environment.

2. Barking Accompanied by Other Symptoms: If the barking is accompanied by other signs such as coughing, wheezing, changes in appetite, lethargy, or unusual breathing patterns, it’s important to consult a veterinarian. These could be indicative of respiratory problems, infections, or other serious health conditions.

3. Persistent Barking with No Clear Cause: If your cat continues to bark for no apparent reason, despite there being no changes in its environment or health, it may indicate an emotional or psychological issue. Anxiety, depression, or other stress-related conditions can manifest in unusual vocalizations, including barking.

How To Respond As A Cat Owner

If your cat begins to bark, the first step is to remain calm and assess the situation. Here are some strategies for managing this behavior:

1. Observe and Document: Take note of the circumstances surrounding the barking. When does it happen? Is there a pattern? Is your cat barking at certain times of day or in response to specific events (such as a visitor, other animals, or changes in the home)? This information can be helpful in identifying the cause of the barking.

2. Provide Comfort: If the barking appears to be a result of stress or anxiety, offer comfort to your cat. Create a safe, quiet space for your cat to retreat to, away from stressful stimuli. You might also want to try calming products such as pheromone diffusers or sprays that can help soothe a nervous cat.

3. Increase Engagement and Play: If your cat is barking out of excitement or attention-seeking behavior, make sure to engage in interactive play sessions. Providing toys that stimulate your cat’s mind and body can reduce the likelihood of barking as a means of seeking attention.

4. Modify the Environment: If there are changes in your home environment that could be triggering the barking, try to address them. This could mean giving your cat more space from new pets, creating more places for it to hide or climb, or adjusting the noise level in your household.

When To Consult A Veterinarian

If your cat’s barking continues despite your efforts to address the underlying cause, or if you suspect there may be a medical issue, it’s time to consult a veterinarian. A professional evaluation is essential if your cat shows other signs of illness, such as difficulty breathing, coughing, or any noticeable changes in behavior. The veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and may suggest tests to rule out physical issues such as throat injuries, infections, or neurological conditions.

In cases where barking is due to stress, anxiety, or behavioral issues, a veterinarian may recommend strategies or medications to manage these conditions. Additionally, behaviorists and trainers who specialize in feline psychology can offer helpful insights for modifying your cat’s behavior.

Conclusion

While it may be surprising to hear your cat barking, it’s important to remember that this vocalization, though rare, can happen for a variety of reasons. Whether it’s an attempt at imitation, a response to stress, or a medical issue, understanding the underlying cause can help you respond appropriately. Pay attention to your cat’s vocalizations, and always take note of accompanying symptoms or behavioral changes.

By remaining attentive and proactive, you can ensure that your cat’s well-being is prioritized. Whether the barking is a one-time quirk or a sign of something more serious, acting early can help you address the issue and ensure your feline friend is happy and healthy.

FAQs

Why Does My Cat Make Barking Noises?

While cats don’t bark like dogs, they may produce similar sounds when they are startled, excited, or trying to communicate something. This could be a form of mimicry, or a response to a situation where they feel threatened, or are attempting to interact with their environment in a way that they can’t do with regular meows.

Is It Normal For A Cat To Bark?

No, it is not typical for cats to bark. Cats communicate primarily through meowing, purring, hissing, and growling. If a cat is making bark-like sounds, it could indicate a medical issue, extreme stress, or a behavioral anomaly.

Could My Cat Be Imitating A Dog By Barking?

Yes, cats are capable of mimicking sounds they frequently hear. If your cat is surrounded by dogs or lives in a house with dogs, it might start copying their barking behavior as a form of interaction or out of curiosity.

Could A Medical Condition Cause My Cat To Bark?

Yes, some medical conditions, such as respiratory issues, feline hyperthyroidism, or a neurological disorder, could cause a cat to make unusual sounds like barking. If the behavior persists, it’s a good idea to take your cat to the vet for a check-up.

What Does It Mean If My Cat Barks When It’s Scared?

If your cat barks when it’s scared, it may be a sign that it is extremely stressed or frightened. This could happen in situations where the cat feels cornered, threatened, or is experiencing anxiety. Barking in these situations can be a way for your cat to express its discomfort.

How Can I Stop My Cat From Barking?

To stop your cat from barking, it’s important to first identify the cause. If it’s due to stress or anxiety, addressing the root cause-such as creating a calm environment or reducing triggers-can help. For behavioral issues, gentle redirection and positive reinforcement may be effective.

Does Barking Indicate That My Cat Wants Attention?

Yes, in some cases, cats may make barking-like sounds to get your attention. It can be a way for them to engage with you, especially if they feel ignored or are trying to communicate a need, such as hunger, playtime, or affection.

Why Does My Kitten Bark, But My Adult Cat Doesn’t?

Kittens are often more curious and experiment with different ways of communicating as they grow. If a kitten barks, it could be an exploration of vocalizations. Adult cats, on the other hand, tend to settle into their primary communication styles like meowing and purring.

Could My Cat’s Barking Sound Be A Form Of Communication With Other Animals?

Yes, cats sometimes make unusual sounds, like barking, to communicate with other animals. It could be a way for them to assert their presence, express discomfort, or even initiate play with other pets, including dogs, in the household.

Should I Be Concerned If My Cat Barks Frequently?

If your cat is barking frequently, it’s important to observe the context and accompanying behaviors. While occasional barking might not be concerning, frequent or persistent barking could indicate an underlying issue, such as anxiety, boredom, or health problems, which should be discussed with a veterinarian.