Why Does My Cat Squeak When Picked Up?

Have you ever wondered why your cat squeaks when picked up?

If so, then you might be interested in this article, where we will be answering this question.

Why Does My Cat Squeak When Picked Up?

Cats may squeak when picked up because they are frightened or in pain. It is important to observe your cat’s behavior and consult with a veterinarian if this becomes a frequent occurrence.

cat squeaks when picked up

To understand more about why your pet cat is making squeaking noises when picked up, let’s delve into the two main reasons in more detail

They may be sick or injured

The first reason is that your cat could be in pain.

sick cat

This is why you should always make sure that your cat has been examined by your vet. If your cat has a medical problem, then this will be the reason why he or she is making the sounds.

My oldest cat (Salt) developed a hernia when he was a kitten.

Since then, he won’t let anyone touch his belly.

If someone picks him up incorrectly, he will let out a little squeak and try and get out of their hands.

If your cat is feeling uncomfortable, then he or she will probably start to make these noises.

However, if your cat is feeling okay, then there is another reason for the noises.

They could be frightened

The second reason is that your cat could be frightened.

Some cats will squeak when they are nervous, so if your cat keeps making these sounds when you are holding him or her, this could mean that he or she is scared.

cat relaxing

Being picked up can be a very scary experience for a cat.

If your cat is scared of something, then he or she will usually start making these sounds as soon as they feel uncomfortable.

If your cat has been picked up by you before, then he or she may remember this and try to avoid it in the future.

To help your cat relax when you pick them up, you could place your hand under his or her belly and gently stroke them. You could also gently rub the side of their head.

Closing Words

The key thing to remember about both of these reasons is that they are both very common.

If you suspect that either of these reasons may be causing your cat to squeak, then you should talk to your vet.

If this does turn out to be the case, then your vet can help to find the best solution for your cat.