Why Do Cats Meow When They See You?
Over the past 60 years worth of cat keeping, I have predominantly owned Siamese cats. One particular insight I have gained is that when a Siamese cat greets you after a period of absence, they are saying 'Hello' and expect a session of affection exchanges before they move on to the business of their day.
Siamese cats, like most breeds, generally don't pestering me for food because they know there are regular mealtimes that do not change with their protests. However, after the greetings are exchanged, you’ll often find them making themselves comfortable on your lap, allowing you a brief respite before getting back to your daily tasks.
Meowing for Various Reasons
While some cats meow when they see their owners, they are not always happy to see you, especially if you’re the 'bossy' human who has just re-entered their territory. They meow for two main reasons: to express their contempt for the human and to try to influence the human to leave, essentially giving the human a quiet nudge to stay away.
On the flip side, a greeting meow could also mean a 'Hello, Hooman. Bow down before me for I am your king or queen'. This is their way of signaling that they are ready for an interaction and expecting some form of attention or affection.
One interesting behavior is that cats do not casually meow at one another. Most social meowing is reserved for their human companions. However, when we took our cat on vacation with us and met up with our family, we noticed something unique. Our cat would chirp in the morning when they saw someone new. For example, he would chirp, "Good Morning!" in the morning when he was greeted by our relatives. Many of them were astounded that cats could do this and found it amusing. "I didn’t know cats did that!" and "He really has nice manners," were common reactions.
If your cat meows happily to see you, it’s a sign that they are happy and ready for interaction. She will also use this as a reminder that her food bowl is empty, and that is unacceptable. If she meows in this manner, it’s time to give her some attention; she’s been alone since you left and she needs your hugs, treats, and a bit of your time.
Conclusion
Cat behavior, including meowing, is a complex and fascinating subject. Understanding why your cat meows can help improve your relationship and provide you with more insight into their preferences and needs. Next time your cat meows, take a moment to observe and perhaps meet their needs, it might just make their day.