Can Cats Cry? This is the Explanation from a Veterinary Paramedics Lecturer at IPB University
The question of whether cats can cry often arises in the minds of pet owners. According to drh Tetty Barunawati Siagian, MSi, a lecturer at IPB University from the Veterinary Paramedics Study Program at the Vocational School, cats do not cry like humans.
Although cats have tear ducts and can physically produce tears, they do not cry due to emotions as humans do.
“Cats do not cry as we imagine. If we see tears flowing down a cat’s face, it is usually due to irritation or a medical issue, not for emotional reasons,” explained drh Tetty.
Instead, she continued, cats express their feelings or needs through vocalizations, such as meowing or groaning. These sounds are used by cats to communicate, whether to convey pain, hunger, or stress, even though there are no accompanying tears.
Drh Tetty explained that cats also have nonverbal ways to show their feelings, such as swishing their tails when feeling disturbed or hiding when feeling anxious or stressed.
“A sad cat may hide, eat less, sleep more, and curl up. They are very good at hiding their emotions,” she added.
Some common reasons why cats vocalize include hunger, thirst, anxiety, or a need for attention. Changes in their environment, such as the arrival of new people, can also trigger stress and make them more vocal.
To recognize the signs, drh Tetty provided some clues, such as long meows indicating desire or pain, tense body posture, or restless behavior indicating anxiety.
“If a cat continues to make sounds or shows signs of pain, it is best to consult a veterinarian immediately,” said drh Tetty.
If you find a cat crying, it is important to check its basic needs first, such as food and water. If the cat appears sick or injured, take it to the veterinarian immediately. In some cases, a cat may simply need more attention or affection from its owner.
By understanding how cats communicate, pet owners can be more sensitive to their cats’ emotional and physical needs. (dh) (IAAS/KMR)
