Why Do Cats Meow at Night? A Kitty’s Point of View!
Psst… it’s me, your cat! What do you mean, you’re trying to sleep? Now’s not the time for sleeping – it’s the time for meowing! Wake up and give me some attention.
And don’t look so surprised. You’re always asking why cats meow at night – well, I’ve decided it’s finally time to answer you.
Yes, I know, the sun hasn’t even risen yet. That’s the point! What better time to burn off a little energy? So, sit up, put your slippers on, and I’ll explain everything you need to know about cats meowing at night.
Are Cats Nocturnal or Just Mischievous?
Let’s set the record straight. Many people think cats are nocturnal, but that’s not quite true. I’m actually crepuscular, which means I’m most active at dawn and dusk. So, when you ask why cats meow at night, it’s partly just down to our nature.
Dawn and dusk are when my wild ancestors would hunt, so I feel a burst of energy then. That’s why you sometimes hear me scampering or calling out while you’re trying to sleep.
Why Do Cats Cry at Night?
That explains that, but why do we cats also make so much noise when you’re trying to catch up on your beauty sleep? Well, there can be a few reasons you might hear me calling out in the early hours:
-
I’m hungry or expect food – If I’m used to being fed at a certain time, I might remind you… loudly. After all, maybe you just didn’t hear me the first few hundred times.
-
I’m bored – Cats like me need play and stimulation during the day. If I haven’t had enough, I may decide 3am will have to be my playtime instead.
-
I want attention – Who, me? Being overly dramatic for attention? Never! Sometimes I just miss you and want a little extra reassurance. That’s not being overdramatic at all.
-
I’m confused – Older cats can experience something called Cognitive Dysfunction, a bit like dementia in humans, which can make nights feel unsettling.
-
I want to go outside – If I usually explore outdoors but am locked in overnight, I might meow to be let out – especially in spring or summer when it’s particularly warm out. What can I say? My territory isn’t going to patrol itself!
How to Stop Cats Meowing at Night
That’s why cats meow or cry out at night, but what about supporting us to be a little quieter? After all, we don’t meow just to disrupt your sleep – it’s usually because we’re after something, one way or another.
Well, here’s the good news: with a little patience, you can help me settle down so we both enjoy peaceful nights! Here are my personal kitty-approved tips:
Play Before Bedtime
A good play session in the evening helps me burn off energy and satisfy my hunting instincts. Chase me with a wand toy, let me pounce, and finish with a tasty snack like my personal super delicious all-time favorite Happy Snack by FELIWAY®.
You got that, right? Go on, write it down: “H-A-P-P-Y…”
Stick to Routines
Cats love routine. Feeding me at the same times each day (and not giving in when I meow outside those times) helps me feel secure and reduces my night-time cries.
Enrich My Space
Leave me toys, puzzle feeders, or a cozy perch by the window to keep me occupied during the day. And at night, provide a selection of warm, quiet sleeping areas so I can choose where to sleep. A comfy bed in a dark spot always helps me feel safe!
Create Calm with FELIWAY® Optimum
If I’m anxious or unsettled, FELIWAY® Optimum can be a big help. This pheromone diffuser provides me with enhanced serenity that makes me feel more secure and relaxed around the home, both during the day and at night. Simply plug it into a socket in the room where I spend the most time to get the best results.
Don’t Reward My Night-Time Meows
As tempting as it may be to get up and give us food or fuss when we cats meow at night, this just teaches me to keep doing it. Instead, check I’m safe, then let me settle on my own.
Unless you really fancy treating me to some Happy Snack by FELIWAY®. Go on, it’ll just be our little secret… Okay, fine! Not even that.
When to Seek Extra Help
If you’ve tried these tips and I’m still very vocal at night, it’s worth asking a vet to check me over. Sometimes, health issues like hyperthyroidism or pain can make a cat meowing at night more frequent. Senior kitties may also need special support if they’re experiencing confusion.
Sweet Dreams
Next time you hear me piping up in the early hours and you wonder how to stop us cats meowing at night, remember: I’m not just making noise for fun. Whether I’m hungry, bored, or lonely, there’s usually a reason. And where there’s a reason, there’s a solution! With the right support, we can make bedtime more peaceful for the both of us.
And with that, I’m off to bed. Just let me know where you’ve hidden the Happy Snack by FELIWAY® and I’ll let you get back to sleep.
Want more tips on understanding your kitty? Explore our FELIWAY® blog for expert advice, and don’t forget to sign up to our newsletter to stay up to date with all the latest feline wisdom!
