Understanding Why Cats Screech at Night: Possible Cause
1. Heat in Cats: One common reason for cats to howl at night is that they are in heat. This natural instinct drives them to bark in an attempt to attract mates. If you, as a pet owner, wish to prevent your cat from reproducing, it's advisable to schedule a spaying or neutering procedure at your local vet after their heat cycle has passed. This can effectively put an end to the nighttime howling.
2. Hunger in Cats: If your cat is not fed on time or is not receiving enough food, they may howl in the middle of the night to draw your attention and signal their hunger. As a responsible pet parent, ensure you feed your cat adequately, but avoid overfeeding them at night to prevent digestive issues and potential health risks.
3. Fear or Anxiety: Cats are sensitive creatures and often remain in a semialert state during sleep, ready for "battle." If loud noises or sudden movements, like a light being turned on, disturb them, they may emit alarm calls. In such cases, there's no need for alarm. Simply move your cat's bed to a quieter part of the room should suffice.
4. Physical Discomfort: Cats may also howl at night due to physical discomfort, such as abdominal pain. If your cat is howling and displaying other abnormal behaviors like vomiting or diarrhea, it's crucial to take them to a vet for a checkup immediately.
5. Coldness: Another reason for your cat's nighttime howling could be feeling too cold. This is often the case during winter if you haven't provided adequate warmth or if they're sleeping near an air conditioner vent in summer. Before going to bed, check if your cat's sleeping area is too cold and add a blanket to keep them cozy and warm.
Understanding why cats howl at night can be quite helpful for pet owners. I hope this information has been useful to you. If you have any further questions, feel free to consult an online vet or continue reading about "Why Do Cats Meow" for more insights.
