Why Do Cats Make Weird Noises at Night?

1. They’re Having Fun

You might be surprised to learn that cats aren't exactly nocturnal. They’re crepuscular, meaning they’re most active at dawn and dusk. These are the hours when your cat is likely to be up and about, fully awake and ready to pounce. It could be that your cat is having a blast, chirping at the sound of birds outside or chasing imaginary prey around the house. Those strange noises? They’re just your cat being… well, a cat!

2. They’re Stressed

Not all cat noises are a sign of fun. Sometimes, it’s stress. If your cat is yowling or growling, it could be a sign they’re feeling anxious or upset. Cats can get stressed for a lot of reasons—new changes in the house, a shift in routine, or even feeling a bit ignored. The quiet of the night often amplifies their feelings, so if your cat is acting up, it might be because they’re feeling a little more on edge than usual. Once you figure out what’s stressing them out, you can help calm them down—and hopefully get a good night’s sleep in the process.

3. They’re Trying to Tell You Something

When your cat decides to wake you up in the middle of the night, it’s often because they need something. Whether they’re hungry, thirsty, or just want some attention, your cat doesn’t care if it’s 3 AM. They’ll let you know! If your cat is constantly demanding food or a petting session at odd hours, it might be time to adjust their routine. Try feeding them before bed or making sure they’ve got plenty of fresh water nearby. That might help minimize those late-night wake-up calls.

4. They’re Dreaming

Just like us, cats can dream—crazy, weird, vivid dreams. And while they’re sleeping, their brains are working overtime. You might hear them making strange noises in their sleep—soft meows, purrs, or even a low growl. It’s just your cat dreaming about chasing mice or exploring an imaginary world. If you’re sharing a bed with your cat, these dream-induced noises can be a bit of a surprise (and maybe even a bit annoying), but they’re completely natural. Let them sleep—it’s all part of their process!

5. They’re Not Spayed or Neutered

If your cat is unspayed or unneutered, you might be in for some particularly loud nights. Female cats in heat will vocalize loudly to attract mates, and male cats will make their presence known if they sense a female nearby. This can lead to some seriously persistent yowling—especially at night when things are quieter. If your cat hasn’t been spayed or neutered, this could be the cause of the noise. Getting them fixed could help quiet things down.

6. They Might Have Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome

As cats get older, just like people, they can start to experience cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS), which is similar to dementia. If your cat is getting up there in age, you might notice them acting a little confused, disoriented, or more vocal at night. Loud meowing or yowling is common for cats with CDS, and it can be distressing for both them and you. If you suspect your older cat is experiencing this, it’s a good idea to have a chat with your vet. They can offer advice on how to manage the condition.

7. They’re Just Being a Cat

And sometimes, it’s just because they’re a cat. Some cats are naturally more vocal, and if you’ve got a talkative breed or a particularly vocal cat, you might find that nighttime is their preferred time for a chat. They might just be letting you know how they feel—whether it’s a happy purr or a loud protest about being ignored. If it’s something that’s always been a part of your cat’s personality, it might be something you just have to accept. You can try shutting them out of your room (though that might cause more noise when they protest), or invest in a good pair of earplugs!

So, if your cat is keeping you up at night with strange noises, there’s usually a reason behind it. Whether they’re just being playful, feeling stressed, or dreaming, understanding what’s going on can help you figure out how to handle it. And if it’s something more serious, like stress or cognitive dysfunction, taking steps to address it can make both of you feel better. But in many cases, your cat is just being a cat—nocturnal quirks and all!