What Does It Mean When Two Cats Howl at Each Other in the Middle of the Night?

The piercing sound of cats howling at each other in the dead of night can be unsettling and disruptive. While it might seem like a random outburst, there are usually specific reasons behind this nocturnal serenade. Understanding these reasons can help you address the behavior and restore peace to your household and neighborhood. While the original article points to mating and territorial disputes, the reasons behind cat howling can be more complex.

One of the most common reasons for this behavior, as the original article mentions, is related to mating. Cats reach sexual maturity and enter estrus, or the “heat” cycle, typically around six months of age, although this can vary depending on the breed and individual cat. During this period, female cats, or queens, will vocalize extensively to attract male cats. This howling is a loud, drawn-out meow that can be quite insistent and attention-grabbing. If the cats are of opposite genders, this is the most likely cause.

Male cats, or toms, are also vocal during mating season. They may howl in response to a queen’s call or to assert their presence and compete with other males. This howling is often accompanied by other behaviors, such as spraying urine (marking their territory) and roaming. If your cats are not spayed or neutered, the best way to address this issue is to have them fixed. Spaying and neutering eliminate the hormonal drives that fuel these behaviors, resulting in a significant reduction in howling and other related issues. Furthermore, it prevents unwanted litters, contributing to the overall well-being of the feline population.

However, mating isn’t the only reason for nocturnal cat concerts. As the original article mentions, territorial disputes are another major contributor. Cats are naturally territorial animals, and they will defend their space against intruders. This territory can encompass not only the inside of your home but also the surrounding yard and even the neighborhood. When a cat perceives another cat as a threat, it may howl to warn the other cat to stay away. This is more likely to happen if the cats are of the same gender, particularly if they are both male.

The howling associated with territorial disputes is often accompanied by other aggressive behaviors, such as hissing, spitting, and swatting. It’s important to intervene if the cats are physically fighting, but simply yelling at them is usually ineffective and can make the situation worse. Instead, try distracting them with a loud noise, such as clapping your hands or shaking a can of coins. Once the immediate conflict has subsided, it’s crucial to address the underlying territorial issues. This can involve providing each cat with its own resources, such as food bowls, water bowls, litter boxes, and scratching posts, in separate areas of the house. This reduces competition and helps each cat feel more secure in its own space. You might even consider using feline pheromone diffusers, which release calming scents that can help reduce anxiety and aggression.

Beyond mating and territory, medical issues can also cause cats to howl, especially at night. Cognitive dysfunction, also known as feline dementia, is a common condition in older cats that can cause confusion, disorientation, and increased vocalization, particularly at night. Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid gland, can also lead to increased vocalization, as well as other symptoms such as weight loss, increased appetite, and hyperactivity. If your cat suddenly starts howling excessively, especially if it’s an older cat or if it’s exhibiting other unusual behaviors, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions. The vet will conduct a thorough examination and may recommend blood tests or other diagnostic procedures to determine the cause of the howling and recommend appropriate treatment.

Attention-seeking can also be a factor. Some cats, especially those that are bored or lonely, may howl to get their owner’s attention. This is more likely to happen if the cat is left alone for long periods of time or if it doesn’t receive enough playtime and interaction. If you suspect that your cat is howling for attention, try increasing the amount of time you spend playing with it, grooming it, and simply interacting with it. Provide it with plenty of toys to keep it entertained when you’re not around. You might also consider getting a companion animal, such as another cat or a dog, to provide your cat with social interaction and prevent boredom. However, introduce new pets gradually and monitor their interactions to ensure that they get along.

Another often overlooked cause is environmental changes. Cats are creatures of habit and can become stressed by changes in their environment, such as moving to a new home, rearranging furniture, or the arrival of a new family member (human or animal). This stress can manifest as increased vocalization, including howling. Try to minimize changes to your cat’s environment as much as possible, and when changes are unavoidable, introduce them gradually and provide your cat with plenty of reassurance and attention. Create a safe and comfortable space for your cat where it can retreat when it feels overwhelmed.

Sometimes, the howling can be attributed to frustration. A cat might be frustrated if it sees something outside that it can’t reach, such as a bird or a squirrel. It might also be frustrated if it’s confined to a small space or if it doesn’t have enough opportunities to engage in natural behaviors, such as hunting and scratching. Provide your cat with plenty of opportunities to engage in these behaviors by offering interactive toys, scratching posts, and window perches. You might also consider building or buying a catio, an enclosed outdoor space where your cat can enjoy the fresh air and sunshine without being able to escape.

Finally, consider the time of day. Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. This is because their natural prey, such as rodents and birds, are also most active during these times. Your cats may be howling simply because they are feeling more alert and energetic at night. This behavior can be managed by providing your cat with plenty of exercise and stimulation during the day, so it’s more likely to sleep through the night.

In conclusion, deciphering the meaning behind two cats howling at each other in the middle of the night requires careful observation and consideration of various factors. While mating and territorial disputes are common causes, medical issues, attention-seeking, environmental changes, and frustration can also contribute to this behavior. By understanding the underlying reasons for the howling, you can take appropriate steps to address the issue and restore peace to your home. Consulting with a veterinarian or a certified cat behaviorist can be invaluable in identifying the cause and developing a customized plan to manage the howling.