The Internet Engineering Task Force has published an unusual draft document titled 'MEOW: Meow Meow Meow Meow Meow Meow Meow' that proposes a new network protocol using cat sounds as communication primitives. The draft, authored by 'meow' and set to expire in October 2026, follows standard IETF formatting despite its whimsical content. The protocol specification includes detailed packet structures and message types using terms like 'Mrrrreeaowwww' and 'Mraoww'.

According to the document, MEOW aims to establish a standardized method for feline communication over IP networks. The protocol defines specific message types including MEOW, NYA, MRRP, MOEW, MROW, MIAU, MIAOW, and PURR, each with designated bit lengths and purposes. The draft includes comprehensive packet diagrams showing header structures with fields for 'Meow Mrrp', 'Moew Mrrp', and 'Meeeeow Nyaaaa~'. The specification also introduces concepts like 'Urgent Meowing' and various message acknowledgments.

While the document appears to be a humorous submission, it demonstrates the IETF's openness to creative contributions and adherence to formal standards processes. The protocol's technical specifications, including 16-bit and 32-bit fields, show how even playful concepts can be structured using established networking principles. Whether MEOW will progress beyond draft status remains uncertain, but it has already generated significant discussion within the networking community.