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Cats are more active during full moons
Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they’re naturally more active during dawn and dusk. During a full moon, the extra light can extend these active periods, causing your cat to stay awake longer, act more playful, or even become more vocal than usual. You might notice them darting around the house, staring out windows, or meowing at nothing in particular.
Cats May Go Outside More
Since cats are often more active during full moon nights, they may be more likely to wander outdoors and spend less time in the safety of home. Outside, they face potential dangers such as territorial cats, hungry predators, or speeding cars.
The increased visibility, combined with the fact that other crepuscular and nocturnal animals are also more active, can make encounters with other animals more likely. More prey animals out and about can mean a fuller tummy for your cat, but more predators and territorial cats on the move could also mean a trip to the emergency vet.
Emergency visits are up on full moon days
An 11-year study by researchers at Colorado State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences found that on nights with a fuller moon, cats were 23% more likely to end up in the emergency room compared to other nights. In dogs, this was even 28%! That’s why it’s a good idea to keep a closer eye on your cat during these nights.
