How to Train a Cat to Stop Meowing

While it's a common practice to train dogs to stop barking, most cat owners resign themselves to the thoughts that their cats will continue to meow loudly and that cats simply can't be trained. By exercising your cat regularly, reinforcing positive behavior and using voice commands to signal negative behavior, you can train your cat to stop meowing.

Things You'll Need

  • String
  • Toy mouse
  • Water bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Entertain your cat with daily exercise sessions. Tie a toy mouse (available at any pet supply store) to the end of a long string. Slowly pull the string across the floor so that the mouse moves past your cat and it can play with the toy. Continue this game until your cat tires of it, for at least 15 minutes.

    • 2

      Give your cat positive attention when it is quiet. Any petting, treats or friendly conversation should take place when your cat is not meowing.

    • 3

      Say "shush" when your cat meows the first time and withdraw all positive attention. If your cat stops meowing, reinstate the positive attention.

    • 4

      Yell be "be quiet" if your cat continues to meow. Again, as soon as your cat stops meowing, resume giving it positive attention.

    • 5

      Spray your cat with water if it continues to meow after the first two warnings. Once your cat stops meowing and settles down, pet it and talk to it in a friendly tone.