---
title: "Java: Override"
date: 2015-01-01
canonical_url: https://idratherbewriting.com/java-override/index.html
---

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# Java: Override

## Override

You see this keyword when you implement an interface or extend an abstract class. In both cases, you have to implement the parent class’s methods.

Eclipse: override

> package com.apress.java7forabsolutebeginners.examples.animalKingdom;
>
> ```
> class Cat extends Mammal implements Predator, Carnivore {
> 
>   private static int numberOfCats;
> 
>   Cat() {
>     numberOfCats++;
>   }
> 
>   public static final int getNumberOfCats() {
>     return numberOfCats;
>   }
> 
>   @Override
>   protected void sayWhatIAm() {
>     System.out.println("I am a cat");
>     super.sayWhatIAm();
>   }
> 
>   // implement the super class's abstract methods
>   @Override
>   void speak() {
>     System.out.println("The cat says, \"meow.\"");
>   }
> 
>   // here's our example of overloading
>   void chase(Mouse mouse) {
>     // chase a mouse
>   }
>   public void chase (Object tail) {
>     // chase one's tail
>   }
> 
>   // methods for the Predator interface
>   @Override
>   public void hunt() {
>     // go hunting
>   }
> 
>   // methods for the Carnivore interface
>   @Override
>   public void eat (Object freshMeat) {
>     // eat fresh meat
>   }
> }
> Java 7 for Absolute Beginners
> ```