Why Do Cats Cry: Unraveling the Reasons

Cats may cry for a variety of reasons, but it's crucial to remember that if your feline friend is wailing or meowing, their needs must be addressed promptly.

1. Your kitten might be feeling lonely

Cats are creatures of curiosity, requiring ample mental and physical stimulation while awake to stay content. If your kitten is constantly crying, it could be seeking your attention or looking for companionship, perhaps from another kitten or its mother. Make sure to dedicate ample time to play with your kitten. If you're able and ready for a longterm commitment, consider adopting another kitten to provide companionship. Many experts strongly advise against adopting kittens singly.

2. Your kitten might be lost or confused

New kitten owners might want their pets to explore freely, but for a young animal, a vast space can be overwhelming and even frightening. If a kitten is crying, it might be lost and calling for help, not recognizing its surroundings or unsure of how to return to its litter box or bed.

3. Your kitten could be hungry

Just like human babies, kittens will cry when they're hungry. If your kitten is constantly meowing for food, it might be a sign that your feeding schedule isn't frequent enough. Puppies grow rapidly, and they need ample wet food to support their growth. While a strict feeding plan may be suitable for an adult cat, kittens require more frequent meals. Consider increasing the number or frequency of feedings.

4. Your kitten might need to go to the bathroom

It's normal for kittens to be particular about their bathroom habits when they first start using a litter box. Kittens under 8 weeks old often meow before or during a bowel movement, as long as they're not stressed or uncomfortable. However, if your kitten cries each time it has to go to the bathroom or struggles to use the litter box, it's essential to take it to the vet to rule out any underlying health issues. Constipation, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems must be taken seriously, especially in kittens. If you suspect your kitten is uncomfortable, don't hesitate to seek veterinary care.

5. Your kitten might be ill

A kitten's sorrowful cry could be a sign of illness, indicating what is causing its discomfort. However, cats and kittens don't always express their pain through sounds. Often, illness is manifested through lethargy or silence rather than crying. Most importantly, when a cat's behavior changes dramatically, whether it's loud crying or complete silence, the person caring for the cat must remain vigilant.