Vocalization in dogs and cats refers to disruptive crying, whining and barking in dogs and meowing in cats. Vocalization in pets refers to such excessive behavior as barking, howling, whining, meowing or yowling. Both cats and dogs can display this behavior for a variety of reasons. For example, cats often yowl when they are getting ready to fight or when they are in heat. Dogs often howl at sirens. Other things that can lead to vocalization in dogs and cats include boredom, stress, pain or illness, and distress.
If your pet howls, cries, whimpers, whines, or barks/meows much more than usual, something may be wrong.
Pets usually vocalize when they are bored, stressed, or afraid, but vocalization may also be a sign your pet is in distress or pain. Intact cats become very loud during while they are in heat, which is a part of their mating cycle.