When people speak about owning cats, they usually note how little maintenance these little creatures require, compared to dogs. However, one thing that many cat owners struggle with is their cats meowing uncontrollably at night. Imagine this: you’re lying in bed, all ready to sleep, and then your cat lets out a blood-curdling yowl. Now, imagine it on repeat. It can be as scary as it is frustrating. But knowing the reason for it can help you get it under control, so you can sleep better in no time.
So why do they meow like this at night? We’ve broken it down below:
Cats are naturally more active at night.
Cats are crepuscular. Unlike being nocturnal, this means they’re most active at dawn and dusk, which is why they tend to get the zoomies in the morning and evening. Even an indoor cat on a schedule has natural hunting instincts, which tell them when to feel more energised. This means that when the sun sets, and you’re ready for bed, they’re just riling up to begin hunting, chasing and playing. If they aren’t getting the engagement they want, they will start to meow to burn off some steam.
Try playing with them before bed to stop this behaviour. Alternatively, you can get them some automated toys or puzzle toys to keep them entertained, so you can sleep better.
They need more stimulation than you think
Because they’re always sleeping, it may be natural to assume that your cat enjoys lazing about. But, this couldn’t be further from the truth. A cat that spends all day sleeping is likely to have excess energy at night that they need to burn off. If they don’t have the means to do so, this burn off can be done so via extreme vocalisation, which can be loud and disturbing.
As above, the best way to combat this is through play sessions and interaction before bed, as this can help them burn off energy and keep their minds at ease.
Cats meow when they’re hungry.
Some cats may meow when they are hungry as a way of trying to tell you that their bowl is empty. While it may be cute at first, this can become an exhausting routine before long. If you only feed them once a day, changing your feeding routine may stop hunger-induced meowing. Try, instead, to feed them once at dawn and once at dusk, when their energy is at its peak, to ensure that they’re both mentally stimulated and that their minds are engaged. As a reminder, quality pet food also makes a substantial difference. Find nutritious cat food for your pet online at PetNest.
They want attention
Cats can be greedy for attention, even if they like to pretend they’re being standoffish or that they don’t like it. They also quickly learn what gets them a response, even if the attention it generates is negative. This means that if their meowing or yowling gets you to check up on them (or scold them), they will continue doing so, as it proves that their methods are working. Instead, ignore the meowing and reward more positive behaviours throughout the day to stop this habit before it becomes locked in.
The PetNest team is here to assist with your cat’s needs.
Cats are typically lower maintenance, but they still have needs. Not sure where to begin? We have a range of cat supplies, all suited to ensuring they have an enriching, fulfilling life. Explore our collections today.
