Kitten Crying at Night: Why It Happens and How to Settle a Kitten

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

You bring a bundle of fluff home, and at midnight it begins to cry. The noise is surprisingly loud for such a small animal, and it can be hard to listen to. Crying is normal for new kittens, and most settle within a few days with patience and a good routine.

Why kittens cry at night

Loneliness. Until now, the kitten slept in a pile with its mother and littermates. A new house is quiet, dark and empty.

Fear and stress. Everything is new, including smells, sounds and spaces. See moving house with a cat for ideas that also help kittens.

Hunger. Young kittens need frequent meals. See kitten feeding schedule.

Cold. Kittens do not regulate their temperature well.

Boredom and energy. Kittens are most active at dusk and dawn. See why do cats meow at night.

Need for the litter box. See kitten litter training.

Illness or pain. Rarely, crying signals a problem.

How to help your kitten settle

1. Create a safe room. A small, quiet room with a bed, litter box, food and water is less overwhelming than a whole house. See kitten supplies checklist.
2. Make the bed warm and cozy. Use a soft blanket, and perhaps a wrapped, warm (not hot) pad. A blanket that smells of the mother or the shelter helps.
3. Add comforting sounds. A ticking clock, soft music or a radio on low can mimic company. Some people use a soft toy that feels like a littermate.
4. Play before bed. A lively session with a wand toy tires the kitten. See how to play with a kitten.
5. Feed a meal before bed. A full belly helps. Follow your vet's advice for portions. See how much should I feed my cat.
6. Use pheromone diffusers, if your vet recommends.
7. Keep nights calm and predictable.
8. Consider a second kitten. A companion can ease loneliness. See should you get two kittens.

What to avoid

• Do not punish. Shouting or spraying water frightens the kitten.
• Do not reward crying with a big play session or food at 3 a.m., since the kitten will learn to wake you.
• Do not leave hazards in the room. See kitten-proofing your home.
• Do not use heating pads that can overheat.

Should the kitten sleep with you?

Many owners let kittens sleep in the bed, and it can reassure the kitten. Consider safety: you might roll over, and young kittens can fall off the bed. A kitten that sleeps on you may want to continue, so decide whether you want that habit. See why does my cat sleep on me. A bed beside you, or a crate near the bed, is a compromise.

Settling over time

Most kittens adjust within a week or two. Keep routines, and give plenty of attention during the day. See how to socialize a kitten. Gradually allow more space as the kitten gains confidence.

When crying is a sign of trouble

Call your vet if your kitten:

• Cries in pain, or cries when touched
• Strains in the litter box
• Has diarrhea, vomiting or is not eating
• Is lethargic, cold or breathing hard
• Cries suddenly after being fine

See the emergency warning signs guide. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Making a bedtime routine

Kittens thrive on routine. Aim for the same sequence each evening: a play session, a meal, a visit to the litter box and then quiet time in the bed. A predictable pattern tells the kitten that night means rest. Dim lights, lower the volume and stay calm. After a few nights, many kittens will start to settle by themselves.

Daytime habits that affect nights

If the kitten sleeps all day, it will be wide awake at night. Keep it active in the afternoon and evening with play, exploring and gentle training. See kitten training basics. Avoid letting it nap for long periods in the hours before bed.

Night lights and noise

Some kittens settle better with a dim night light, since they can see around the room. Others like a white noise machine. Try each to see which suits yours. Make sure all electrical items and cords are out of reach.

When you have other pets

Other pets may react to a crying kitten, and a dog may become anxious. Keep the kitten in its own room at first. See how to introduce a kitten to a dog and how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

Very young kittens

Kittens under four weeks cry for food, warmth and stimulation, and need bottle feeding every few hours. See how to bottle feed a kitten.