I have a crying cat

by Lisa
(Winter Haven, FL)

We got a 1 year old neutered male cat from a lady that had to find a new home for him. He's very affectionate and has adjusted well to his new home. He's playful, curious, uses the litter box, eats well. But... at night he "cries" on & off. He sounds like a baby. His food bowl is full, fresh water, clean litter box. Should I leave a light on? Should I buy him a cage to sleep in at night? Is it just adjustment?

Answer by Kate
Hi
Well yes it is a combination of things really.

night time is the natural time for cats to be awake and alert and unfortunately it is not for us, so a conflict is always on the cards.

Night time calling is a combination of things from attention seeking because they want to play, calling to other cats at night and sometime anxiety.

i would not recommend a cage for him, he just needs to get into a night time routine.

About 45 minutes before you go to bed and a run around game with him to wear him out a little. then just before you go to bed give him a meal this will help to settle him down.

keep him in a room at night with his bed, water and lots of things to play with and keep him amused if he wakes up during the night.

if you repeat this routine over and over he will eventually get used to it. I have had cats all my life an they do get used to routines. he is young and in new surroundings so it it is not surprising that he feels a little unsure.

I have a page about how to keep a cat happy inside which can also apply to things to keep them happy at night here is the page

https://www.our-happy-cat.com/indoor-cats.html

best wishes Kate

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