Congratulations on welcoming a new kitten into your home!
As your furry friend gets used to their new surroundings, you might hear them making sounds that seem like crying. It can be upsetting to hear kittens cry, but don’t worry! Keep reading to find out why kittens cry and what you can do to comfort them.
6 Reasons Your Kitten Keeps Crying
Your Kitten is Hungry
It turns out that kittens and human babies are pretty similar. Kittens meow when they’re hungry or if it’s been too long since they last ate. If your kitten is meowing for food every day, you might need to check their feeding routine and the food you’re using. Maybe you’re not feeding them enough. You can also talk to a vet if you’re not sure.
Kittens grow quickly, so it’s important to give them enough wet food to help them grow. Unlike older cats, kittens don’t need a strict feeding schedule. If your kitten looks hungry, just give them some food. When they’re around 3 to 4 months old, they can start following a more regular feeding routine.
Your kitten is lonely
Your new kitten might feel sad sometimes because they miss their siblings and mom when they move into your home. Kittens are very curious and active, so they need lots of playtime and attention to stay happy.
If your kitten cries a lot after coming home with you, they might be looking for their family or seeking your attention. There are a few things you can do to help. If you can, adopting two kittens from the same litter can make them feel less lonely. Just remember, each kitten needs their own litter box.
Spending quality time with your kitten every day is important. Playing with them is better than just sitting with them quietly. It can help them feel loved and less lonely.
Your Kitten is in Pain
You can tell if your kitten is in pain or feeling unwell by their cries or if they seem sad or tired. It’s important to pay attention to any changes in their behavior. Sometimes, cats don’t cry when they’re sick, but they might become quiet or less active.
If your kitten is crying loudly or acting differently, it’s best to see a vet as soon as possible. As a pet owner, it’s your job to notice if something is wrong with your kitten and take them to the vet if needed.
Read more: Recognizing The Signs of Illness in Kittens – 6 Common Health Issues
Your kitten is Disoriented or Lost
Your kitten is very small, so your house might seem huge to them. It’s important to remember that a big house can be overwhelming for a tiny kitten. When you bring your kitten home, don’t let them roam the whole house right away. They might feel lost and scared.
If your kitten cries, it could be because they don’t know where they are in the house or how to find their bed or litter box. To help them adjust, introduce your kitten to different parts of the house slowly. Give them a small area to explore and call their own for the first few weeks. This will help them feel more comfortable without getting overwhelmed.
Once your kitten is used to that area, you can gradually let them explore more of the house. Take your time and be patient. It’s important for your kitten to feel safe and secure in their new environment.
Your Kitten Needs to Defecate
Kittens might cry because they need to use the litter box. It can take time for them to get used to it, so don’t be surprised if they’re picky about it at first. To make the litter box comfortable for them, use a shallow amount of litter, about one to two inches, and make sure it’s easy for them to get in and out of.
Young kittens, especially those under 8 weeks old, might meow before or after using the litter box, which is normal. However, if your kitten seems uncomfortable or has trouble using the litter box, they might be constipated. In this case, it’s best to take them to the vet to check for any health issues.
Always take diarrhea, constipation, or any other signs of stomach problems seriously with a young kitten. It’s better to be safe and take them to the vet early on.
Your Kitten is Teething
Kittens start getting their baby teeth around 4-6 weeks old, but their adult teeth start coming in around 4-6 months. Teething isn’t usually painful, but it can make kittens feel irritable and sensitive, leading them to cry. If you notice red, swollen gums with discharge, contact your vet right away for treatment.
To help your kitten during teething, give them safe chew toys or wet washcloths to chew on. You can also gently wipe their teeth with a washcloth, which helps them get used to having their mouth handled and makes it easier to brush their teeth later on.
Read Also: Stages of Kitten Development: First Weeks & Months
Why is My Newborn Kitten Crying?
kittens are born unable to see or hear. During their first weeks, it’s common for them to cry because they need food and warmth. Kittens usually stay with their mothers until they are 8 weeks old to nurse and stay cozy. Weaning, when kittens start eating solid food, begins around 4 weeks and lasts for 4-6 weeks.
When you start weaning, kittens may cry because their mother isn’t there to feed them. If you have a kitten younger than 8 weeks and the mother isn’t around, you’ll need to feed them.
Here’s how to help: Instead of cow’s milk, feed them kitten formula. Keep kittens up to 4 weeks old in a cat carrier or safe container with blankets or towels to keep them warm when they’re not being fed. You can also use a heating pad made for kittens.
You can read our article about How to Feed and Care For a Newborn Kitten With No Mother for more.
When to Call the Vet
If your kitten keeps crying or shows other signs of not feeling well, like diarrhea, vomiting, being very tired, not wanting to eat, or grooming too much, talk to your vet or an emergency vet.
As your kitten grows up, their meows will change. Keep listening to them, responding, and giving them love. It helps keep your bond strong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my kitten seem to cry more at night?
Kittens are naturally more active during the night, especially during their early months. They may cry more at night due to feeling lonely, seeking attention, or simply being playful. Providing them with toys and spending quality time with them during the day can help reduce nighttime crying.
Is it normal for my kitten to cry during car rides?
Some kittens may cry during car rides due to motion sickness, anxiety, or discomfort. To help ease their stress, use a secure carrier and cover it partially to reduce visual stimuli. Additionally, try taking short trips to get them accustomed to car rides gradually.
My kitten cries when I leave the room. What should I do?
Separation anxiety is common in kittens, especially when they’re still adjusting to their new home. To help alleviate their anxiety, gradually increase the time you spend away from them while ensuring they have comforting items like toys or blankets. You can also leave a piece of clothing with your scent to reassure them when you’re not around.
How can I prevent my kitten from crying excessively for attention?
Kittens crave attention and may cry to get it. To discourage excessive crying for attention, provide regular playtime and interaction throughout the day. Engage them in stimulating activities and provide toys to keep them entertained when you’re not available. Additionally, avoid rewarding crying behavior with attention to prevent reinforcement.
