Why Do Cats Ignore Their Names? Hearing, Choice and Recall Training

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

You call your cat, and it flicks an ear, but does not move. It is not your imagination. Studies show that cats recognize their names, and often choose not to react. Understanding why helps you to make your cat more responsive, and to know when ignoring is a sign of trouble.

Do cats know their names?

Yes. In studies by Japanese researchers, cats were played recordings of their owners saying words similar to their names, then their actual names. Many cats responded to their own names with subtle reactions, such as head turns, ear movements and tail twitches, even when the voice was a stranger's. Cats also appear to learn names for other cats in the household.

Why cats ignore names

• Choice. Cats are independent, and decide whether to respond.
• Lack of motivation. If nothing good follows, why bother?
• Negative associations. If the name is used before a bath, a pill or a vet trip, the cat may learn to avoid it. See how to give a cat a pill.
• Distraction. A cat watching birds or hunting may not respond.
• Sleep. A sleeping cat may ignore you.
• Subtle response. The cat may respond with an ear flick, which you miss.
• Hearing loss. See below.
• Stress or fear. A frightened cat may hide.

Hearing loss

Cats can lose hearing from age, ear infections or genetics. If your cat ignores all sounds, including the can opener, check with a vet. See caring for a deaf cat, white cats and deafness and how to clean a cat's ears.

Teaching your cat its name

1. Choose a name with a distinct sound, often one or two syllables.
2. Say the name once, in a happy voice, and reward immediately with a treat, play or petting.
3. Repeat several times a day, in different rooms, with high-value treats.
4. Use the name for good things. Avoid scolding or using it before unpleasant events.
5. Increase distance and distractions slowly.
6. Reward any response, such as an ear flick, at first.

See clicker training a cat.

Teaching recall

Once your cat knows its name, add a recall.

1. Say the name, then a cue such as come.
2. Reward when the cat approaches.
3. Start close, and move farther away.
4. Use a distinctive sound, such as a treat bag shake, a whistle or a clicker.
5. Practice at mealtimes.

See how to train a cat to come when called.

What not to do

• Do not call the cat for punishment.
• Do not chase it.
• Do not repeat the name endlessly.
• Do not force the cat to come.
• Do not use the name in a harsh tone.

Kittens

Kittens learn names quickly. Use the name during play and feeding. See kitten training basics.

Multi-cat homes

Cats may know each other's names too. Use separate treats and calls for each.

Seniors

Older cats may ignore names because of hearing loss or cognitive changes. See senior cat care guide and caring for a cat with dementia.

Other ways to call

Some cats respond better to a sound like a whistle, a kissy noise or a can opener than to words. Use whatever works.

Is it ignoring or listening?

Watch for small signs. A twitch of the ears, a shift of the head or a swish of the tail often means that your cat heard you. Reward these small responses with a treat or a gentle word, and you may see larger ones over time. Do not interpret silence as defiance. Cats have their own priorities, and training works best when it fits into their routine, such as just before dinner.

Making your cat's name worth responding to

The key is value. If your cat learns that its name predicts something it likes, such as a treat, a game or a cuddle, it will pay attention. Use the name at relaxed moments, such as before a meal, and say it once in a cheerful voice. Reward any response, however small. If the name is often followed by a chore, such as a nail trim, use a different word for those tasks. Over weeks, a cat that ignored you may learn to trot over, tail high, as soon as it hears its name.

Nicknames

Cats often learn several names and pet names. Choose a few that sound different, and use them for rewards.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat suddenly stops responding. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.