 Cat actually prefers when you use baby talk. A new study found that cats can distinguish between speech that is meant for them rather than your normal speaking voice. The cats would respond when their owners use a high-pitched tone and extended vowel. They can also distinguish your voice from others, meaning they'll probably ignore strangers no matter which voice they use. If you're using baby talk and they continue to ignore you, it's probably because they're choosing to, because cats.