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My 16-year-old cat was quiet, why is she suddenly howling now?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Maine Coon | Female | spayed | 16 years and 1 month old | 15 lbs

My 16 year old Maine coon female has never been a howler but ever since our youngest son left the house she's been howling at night and now sometimes during the day. I don't think it's because she's in pain as she continues to go up and down the stairs and can jump from the floor to the back of the couch. Why is she howling lately when she was a quiet cat before?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on February 27th, 2018

Thank you for asking the question about Rosie. A common cause of increased vocalizing in older cats is Hyperthyroidism. A benign tumor on the thyroid gland tends to cause weight loss, increased appetite, increased Vocalization, and sometimes vomiting and or diarrhea. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian soon. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

    Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

    Published on July 29th, 2017

    I'm sorry that you're having this problem with Jasmine! It's not likely that she is lonely, as cats are naturally solitary animals who generally don't enjoy the company of other pets very much unless they grew up together - so unfortunately, I doubt that getting another cat would help. There are quite a few medical problems in older cats that are known for causing nighttime vocalization like this - it's good that you've had her to the vet for blood work and urine testing, since this helps to rule out some common possibilities. But, it's still very possible that she may have a medical issue such as hypertension (high blood pressure), vision or hearing loss, arthritis pain, or even cognitive dysfunction (similar to dementia in humans). I would be strongly suspicious that something like this is the cause. I would suggest talking with your veterinarian about these possibilities, or taking her back in for a recheck visit if needed. She should probably have her blood pressure checked if this hasn't been done already, and the vet can also do some simple tests to help assess her vision and hearing. If possible arthritis pain is suspected, a trial course of pain medication such as gabapentin at night before bed can be very helpful in some kitties.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 19th, 2017

    There could actually be a medical cause behind Bobbi's behavior. In senior cats, hyperthyroidism is very common, and that can cause excessive vocalization. It can also be caused by high blood pressure, pain, sensory decline, central nervous system disease, or cognitive decline. I would have her seen by a vet tomorrow for a physical exam, geriatric blood panel, and urinalysis. These tests will help the vet diagnose what is causing her howling at night and can discuss treatment options with you.

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