Why Do Cats Cry? Understanding the Tears Behind the Meows
At FellowKitty, we’ve seen hundreds of cats come through our rescue doors — some bold, some shy, some silent… and some who cry. Those haunting meows at midnight or sorrowful yowls in the corner of a room often leave people wondering:
Do cats cry because they’re sad? Are those meows actually tears of pain or heartbreak?
Let’s gently explore this question, not just as animal lovers, but as feline advocates committed to understanding the unspoken emotions of our beloved kitties — especially those who’ve endured trauma, abandonment, or loss.
Cats Don’t Cry Like We Do — But They Do Express Emotion
Cats don’t shed emotional tears the way humans do. If your cat has watery eyes, it could be due to a health issue like a blocked tear duct, conjunctivitis, or an allergy — not sadness.
But don’t be mistaken — cats do grieve, hurt, and feel deeply. And they express those emotions in their own quiet, powerful ways: vocalizations, behavior changes, withdrawal, or sudden clinginess.
At FellowKitty, we’ve cradled cats mourning their lost humans… we’ve comforted mothers searching for missing kittens… and we’ve watched rescue cats cry out softly when first separated from the dangerous streets they called home.
What Are They Trying to Say?
Here are a few common reasons cats “cry” — and what their meows might really mean:
1. Loneliness or Separation Anxiety
Many of our rescues have been abandoned or separated too early from their mothers. When left alone, they may cry — not from mischief, but from a place of deep emotional need.
2. Pain or Discomfort
Crying out can be a sign of illness, injury, or discomfort — especially in older cats or those suffering from untreated conditions. This is why regular check-ups and compassionate observation are critical.
3. Stress or Fear
A new home, new pet, or even unfamiliar smells can unsettle a cat. We’ve had cats in our shelter cry out on their first night, unsure if this new space is another danger — or finally, a safe haven.
4. Hunger or Need
Sometimes it’s simple: your cat is asking for food, water, or a clean litter box. But especially in rescues, hunger often carries emotional baggage. Street cats cry out not just for meals, but for survival.
FellowKitty’s Crying Hearts
Each “cry” we hear at FellowKitty is a call to action — not to silence, but to soothe. We’ve watched cats transform from trembling, crying bundles of fear into affectionate, silent snugglers… all because someone took the time to listen.
And this is why we do what we do.
Because every meow matters.
What You Can Do
If your cat is crying, don’t ignore it. Observe. Comfort. Visit your vet. And most importantly — be present. Sometimes all a cat needs is for someone to notice their voice and respond with love.
At FellowKitty, we listen to the cries others might overlook. We hear the silent sorrow of the sick, the scared, and the forgotten — and we turn it into healing, hope, and home.
Want to Be the Answer to a Cat’s Cry?
Adopt a cat who’s been longing for love
Donate to help us care for abandoned kittens and cats in Sri Lanka
Support our Hope for Lives health program to treat crying cats in pain
Volunteer to lend a listening ear and a gentle hand
Because no cat should ever have to cry alone. Where every meow has meaning. And every tear finds comfort. For more information visit www.fellowkitty.com or write to our founder nethuki@fellowkitty.com