A cat behaviour expert has revealed the reason why felines sometimes enter empty rooms and howl or meow loudly. The behaviour, which can be alarming for owners, is often simply due to the echo produced in such spaces.
In a TikTok video, cat behaviour specialist Khris explained that many cats enjoy the echo sound in empty rooms like bathrooms or hallways. She said: 'Your cat might be one of those cats who really enjoys that echo sound that gets in an empty room.'
Khris added that the behaviour can also indicate that the cat is under-stimulated and seeking entertainment. 'And this entertains them. It's a different sound. Sometimes it draws you, you come running, wondering what's going on,' she said.
If your cat frequently meows in empty rooms, the expert recommends establishing a play routine. According to Cat Protection, play is vital for cats of all ages, helping them stay fit, alert, and mentally stimulated. Older cats typically enjoy three to four play sessions daily, while younger cats may need up to ten.
Cat Protection advises using toys that encourage natural behaviours like stalking and pouncing, and swapping toys regularly to maintain interest. However, they caution against leaving cats unsupervised with toys that could be shredded or swallowed.
