Cats are super-loving creatures. They get attached to their owners pretty quickly, and this is what makes them so adorable. Who does not want their cat to be affectionate? We all do. There is nothing more heartwarming than cuddling with your pet or seeing them being affectionate towards you, especially in the morning.
The question that arises here is that why do cats specifically get affectionate in the morning? Well, there are several reasons behind this behavior. First, however, keep in mind that being affectionate and groaning in pain are two very different things in cats.
Sometimes, cat owners ignore the groaning of their pet, assuming it to be the usual morning period of affection. This can lead to health complications if ignored for an extended period. If you are a novice cat owner looking for ways to understand your cat’s emotional needs better, we can give you a brief overview of how cats communicate with humans.
How to Differentiate Between a Cat’s Groaning and a Cat Being Affectionate?
The best way to understand the difference between a cat groaning and being affectionate is to check what she does while making the purring sounds. For example, if your cat rubs her head against your body—mainly your hands—she is most likely showing love to you. Similarly, cats purr when they are happy, so if your cat is purring and rubbing her head against your body, she is probably comfortable and affectionate. Cats may also wag their tails when they are in the mood to show love to their owners.
The groaning or whimpering of a cat is very different, however. When cats are in pain, they show a variety of signs other than groaning and whimpering. For example, they would meow more than usual, or you may notice your cat being restless—she would not find comfort while lying down or even standing up. You may also see a change in their daily activities like less energy or decreased endurance to engage in previously enjoyable activities.
If your cat shows unusual behavior and is meowing more than usual, take her to the vet immediately— as this could indicate emotional distress or physical illness.
As we have discussed the fundamental differences between groaning and being affectionate, let’s dig further into why cats are loving, specifically in the morning.
Why Is My Cat So Affectionate In The Morning?
As mentioned earlier, cats are loving creatures who can get emotionally attached to their owners in no time. However, there are common cat behaviors many cat enthusiasts may want to learn about their pets. Why do cats get affectionate in the morning? Well, this is a typical cat behavior, and as long as you are aware of the difference between groaning and being affectionate in cats, you are good to go and should not worry about it. There are a variety of reasons why cats get affectionate, especially in the morning. Let’s discuss the factors in detail below.
Cats Are Crepuscular
Cats, as previously stated, are incredibly active and energetic creatures. They are most active in the early hours of the day. That is when they are most eager for your attention—when they have the most energy. Cats, too, are morning animals and need at least 15 hours of sleep every night. Humans and cats sleep in different ways. It is possible that you weren’t very affectionate to your cat during the night, making them feel needy when you wake up in the morning.
Your Cat Is Hungry
Another possible reason why your cat is being so affectionate in the morning may be hunger. As mentioned earlier, cats and humans have different sleep patterns—your cat may wake up a few hours before you and would search for food instantly. This is the most common cat behavior in cats when they are hungry and want their owners to feed them.
Your Cat Might Be Trying To Tell You About Something
It is no hidden fact that cats love playing and jumping around places—that is how they exert their energy. However, it might be possible that your cat has done something she should not have. For instance, she spilled the water bowl, urinated outside her litter box, broke something, etc. In such cases—which are rare to happen at a specific time—cats are more likely to nuzzle or yowl against you.
You Cat Loves You
Like humans, cats are emotional creatures, and the only way they can express their love towards you is by cuddling and snuggling. If this is the case with your cat, pat yourself on the back for being a good owner towards her. She loves you so much that she cannot stop expressing it to you.
Even though all pet enthusiasts adore the way their cats nuzzle against them early in the morning, sometimes, however, frequent occurrence of such behavior can disrupt their sleep pattern, leading to several other issues.
As we have thoroughly discussed the potential causes behind cats being so affectionate, there are several factors through which you can prevent your cat from being all lovey-dovey in the morning—if it is disrupting your sleeping pattern, that is.
How Can I Stop My Cat From Being Affectionate In The Morning?
Identify the Reason
The first and foremost step you should take to stop your cat from disrupting your sleep early in the morning is to identify the reason behind the behavior. Ask yourself a few questions. When did I last feed her? Is she hungry? Or is she bored? Keep a close check on your cat’s routine. This would allow you to identify the reason behind the sudden change in her behavior. Similarly, take notes of other behavioral changes—to rule out underlying health issues.
Once you have identified the reason, fix or change the routine to stop your cat from interrupting your sleep. For instance;
Change the Feeding Routine
After a few cuddling sessions with your cat early in the morning, it would give you a clear idea of what makes your cat so loving towards you. If she asks for food every time, you need to change her feeding routine. It is highly advised that you feed the cat in the latter part of the night—probably 10 minutes before you sleep—to prevent her from being overly hungry in the early hours of the morning.
Read: Why Does My Cat Bite Me?
Discourage Morning Cuddles
Another way to stop your cat from nuzzling against you is to avoid reacting. When your cat is showing love to you, you can ignore her to let her know that this is not a good time for you to cuddle. Do this for a week, and your cat will quietly walk away from you. Another possible solution can be to hug her when she wakes you up. Hold her gently for a few minutes, and she would start wriggling—asking you to let her go. Cats do not like hugs!
Plan Activities For the Night
Cats are usually awake during midnight. Therefore, this is the best time for you to plan different activities for her to indulge in throughout the night. For example, make food puzzles or place toys and balls available around the house for the cat to play with. This would allow your cat to play while you sleep throughout the night. Eventually, your cat might get tired and sleep during the time you wake up.
Consult a Vet
Frequent occurrences of such behavior could indicate underlying health issues. If your cat is frequently trying to gain your attention throughout the day, it could be a sign of an illness as cats cannot speak. If there are any other visible signs, such as poor appetite, change in the routine, fatigues, etc., along with daily sessions of affection in the morning, take your cat to the vet immediately.
Conclusion
Cats are the most adorable creatures to have around. They are super loving and energetic, and it is always a treat for cat enthusiasts to have one. However, cats require extra care—whether physical health, oral health, or mental health. As they cannot speak for themselves, it is highly advised that you take extra care of them. Provide them with all the essentials and be gentle and loving towards them.