Why Does My Kitty Scream at Night? 6 Reasons and Proven Solutions

Why Does My Kitty Scream a Lot in the Evening? Understanding Feline Behavior and How to Address It:

If your kitty is screaming a lot in the evening, you’re not alone. Many cat owners experience this puzzling behavior, and it can be both concerning and frustrating. But don’t worry—your feline friend isn’t trying to drive you crazy (probably). There are several reasons why cats vocalize excessively, especially during the evening hours. In this blog, we’ll explore the possible causes, how to address them, and tips to improve your cat’s behavior.

Why Do Cats Scream in the Evening?

1. Natural Instincts: Cats Are Crepuscular

    

   Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. In the wild, this is when their prey is most active. Your kitty’s evening screams could simply be a reflection of their natural hunting instincts kicking in.  

   2. Attention-Seeking Behaviour  
      Cats are smart creatures. If they’ve learned that screaming gets your attention, they’ll keep doing it. Whether they want food, playtime, or just some cuddles, your kitty might be using their voice to communicate their needs.  

   3. Hunger or Feeding Time  
      If your cat associates evening with mealtime, they might be screaming to remind you that it’s time to eat. Cats are creatures of habit, and they’ll let you know when they’re hungry.  

   4. Loneliness or Boredom 
      Cats can get lonely or bored, especially if they’ve been alone all day. Evening screams might be their way of expressing frustration or seeking interaction.  

   5.Medical Issues 
      Excessive vocalization can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem, such as hyperthyroidism, dental pain, or cognitive dysfunction in older cats. If the screaming is new or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s worth consulting your vet.  

   6. Stress or Anxiety  
      Changes in the household, new pets, or even outdoor stimuli (like other animals) can cause stress and lead to increased vocalization.  

    

      How to Stop Your Kitty from Screaming in the Evening

1. Stick to a Routine  
   Cats thrive on routine. Establish a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and cuddles. This can help reduce anxiety and prevent attention-seeking screams.  

2. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation  
   Engage your cat in interactive play sessions during the day and evening to burn off excess energy. Puzzle toys, feather wands, and laser pointers can keep them entertained.  

3. Create a Calm Environment  
   Reduce stress by creating a safe, quiet space for your cat. Use calming products like pheromone diffusers or sprays to help them relax.  

4. Ignore Attention-Seeking Behaviour
   If your cat is screaming for attention, try not to reward the behavior. Wait until they’re quiet before giving them what they want.  

5. Check for Medical Issues
   If the screaming persists or seems out of character, schedule a vet visit to rule out any health problems.  

6. Adjust Feeding Times 
   If hunger is the issue, consider splitting their meals into smaller, more frequent portions or using an automatic feeder to dispense food in the evening.  

Conclusion 

Understanding why your kitty screams in the evening is the first step toward addressing the behavior. Whether it’s due to natural instincts, hunger, or stress, there are plenty of ways to help your feline friend feel more comfortable—and give you some peace and quiet.  

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