Expert: Dear Tabbi - 1/18/2009

Question
Hello,

My daughter has a kitten that is a little over one. We have not yet fixed him (he goes in on the 30th of this month). He has recently started waking the house up every morning at 5 a.m. by walking around the house meowing. It seems it is the same time every day and I have never had this problem with a cat before. Is it because he has not yet been fixed or is he just lonely for us?

Any information would be helpful as I feel as if I am losing my mind.

Thank you,
Jason Axness

Answer
Jason,

It is probably related to the cat not being neutered. That should help. He may also be bored. A cat friend about his same age and temperment could help keep him company, play kitty games with him, and be comfort and company when he is alone.

Play with him right before you go to bed. A pet laser light is an excellent interactive toy (you can get them at PetSmart, Petco, etc.)  A good play session before bedtime will tire him out, which is essential for a good nights sleep for you both!  

Give the cat a can of catfood (or his big meal) after you play with him, just before you go to bed. That way he will have a full tummy, be tired from playing and will sleep longer (hopefully!)

Leaving a bowl of dry food out at night will help too. If he gets the munchies, he won't have to try to wake you and it will tide him over until you get up. As the cat gets older his food requirements change. Give him a good quality dry food (like Iams) that doesn't have a lot of fillers which make them hungry more often.

Feeding a cat first thing in the morning will only increase his desire to wake you up earlier and earlier because he will associate your waking up with the reward of being fed.  To discourage this, take a shower, have your breakfast, play with him for a few minutes and THEN feed him.

I hope this helps.

Tabbi