Why does my cat meow at night?

Question

My cat recently started meowing at night. He's a house cat, fixed, well-fed, and gets lots of attention. During the day, he sleeps like a baby, making no noise whatsoever; but once the lights are out and the house is quiet, he begins his serenade. He doesn't do it continuously all night long, but sporadically (three or four times per evening)...for about five to ten seconds...and loud enough to wake me up. Just wondering if anyone has an idea what might be on his mind. Thanks

Answer 1

if there are any other cats in the neighbourhood she might be in heat. he might be lonely, its alright giving him loads of attention human love isnt the same as cat love you know.

Answer 2

My cats do that also. Cats are actually nocturnal animals, therefore they are most active at night. Meowing so just something they do either for food, petting, or most likely attention. (Why are these people saying cats meow because they need to go to the bathroom? They are not dogs, so they don't need to be taken out. They can potty all by themselves without crying for help.)

Answer 3

It's really hard to understand what's up with the cat without knowing his age. Older cats seem to cry sometimes at night (15-20 years). My Cameo who was almost 23 cried at night - she was totally deaf and may have gotten disoriented in the night. I don't think the fact that it was dark at night had anything to do with it - cats see perfectly well in very low light.

Since he isn't crying during the day and you don't give any other symptoms which might indicate problems that older cats have (especially hyperthyroidism) I just don't have a clue as to why he is doing the crying at night.

So, depending on age, I would have a vet check him over for any health problems. You really need to do that anyway if the cat is much over ten.

Answer 4

Cats are nocturnal creatures. I currently have 3 indoor cats. My only male (I have mother, daughter and son) meows at night like yours does. He goes into another room and lets out a few howls. I just call him and he comes to me. I think he just wants extra attention and I give it to him and then he quiets down for the night.

Answer 5

Maybe he is lonely or talking to something. I have 2 cats, Kitty and Squeaky. Kitty will meow really loud and Squeaky will come find him. It's like they are communicating.

Answer 6

How old is your cat? My cat did this. Vet said it may have something to do with dementia. My cat was 16 at the time.

Answer 7

I think even thought he is fixed he might want to go for a prowl. cats have an instinct to go prowling and hes craving a night walk outside!

Answer 8

Cat sleep during the day and are awake at night ( can't spell that word for it) His may just be lonly at night whe you are sleeping.

Answer 9

I have one cat that does this only when he can see another cat outside the window.

Answer 10

Of coarse hes wondering where you went, and why is it dark in here lol.........next time answer him and see if he quits