why do cats moan at night

Cats meow at night for all kinds of reasons. Sometimes, they want a treat. At other times, your cat may need you to replenish their food or water. More often than not, they’re meowing just because they’re lonely and want to play — even when their people are fast asleep.

Hearing a cat meowing at night is not uncommon – but if you’re a cat owner and it’s your cat that is meowing at night, it may be something that you are concerned about.

Meowing at night, also referred to as night vocalization or night calling, can be an issue if it indicates your cat is uncomfortable or is interfering with your sleep. Continue reading to learn more about the possible causes of your cat’s nighttime vocalizations.

It’s widely known that cats are night owls. They seem to start running around the house as soon as we turn out the lights, kind of like the feline equivalent of dog zoomies. They may also meow a lot as they get ready for their nighttime antics. Additionally, occasionally your weeping cat can be a major distraction and prevent you from getting the rest you desperately need.

Here at Purina, we’ve put together this guide to tell you everything you need to know if your feline friend does this and you’re wondering why does my cat meow at night and what can I do about it.

5. Outdoor cats may feel trapped

There’s a strong likelihood that your cat is crying because they feel trapped if they spend the day outside and spend the night inside. Installing a cat flap and allowing them outside at night will allow them to run around and burn off energy outside, if that’s safe to do.

1. Cats are naturally more active at night

The fact that cats are naturally more active at certain times of the night may have a significant role in your cat’s nighttime crying. Despite the widespread belief that cats are nocturnal creatures, this is not entirely accurate. But because they are crepuscular, they are by nature most active at dusk and dawn. While many cats do adjust to their owners’ routines, your cat may exhibit heightened activity in the early morning hours when everyone else is asleep due to this crepuscular tendency.

Because their instincts tell them that nighttime is the best time to hunt, younger cats are more likely to be active during this time. But as they get older, it’s possible that they’ll learn to fit in with the rest of the family’s rhythm, which could lead to less nighttime meowing from the cats.

FAQ

What does it mean when a cat moans?

A yowl, or howl, is a long, drawn-out meow that almost sounds like moaning; it’s your cat’s way of telling you they’re worried or distressed, or that they need you. They might have gotten locked in a closet, can’t find you anywhere or, heaven forbid, have discovered their food bowl is empty.

What does it mean when you hear a cat crying at night outside?

They’re Hungry or Thirsty Stray cats can sometimes go for days without eating or drinking, so if you hear the feral cats in your community crying at night, it could be that they’re hungry or thirsty. Cats are highly intelligent and motivated creatures, so they have ways to find food and water.

When a cat makes a weird noise at night?

They’re Stressed Besides sounds of enjoyment, cats can also spend the night expressing negative emotions. Yowling and low growling sounds can be signs a cat is feeling stressed.

Should I ignore my cat meowing at night?

In most cats, you should ignore this behaviour and only get up to gently take them out of your bedroom and shut the bedroom door.