Follow the behaviorist's suggested routine for helping your cat rest peacefully during the night
Cats, being crepuscular creatures, are most active at dawn and dusk. However, understanding their sleep patterns and establishing a bedtime routine can help ensure a good night's rest for your feline friend.
Registered cat behavioral consultant Molly Kelsey recommends implementing a bedtime routine for adult cats. The primary goal is to mimic a cat's natural hunting and eating cycles, helping them feel secure and prepared for sleep.
To begin, engage your cat in active play sessions in the evening. These play sessions should last for 10-15 minutes and should be wound down at least 30 minutes before bed. This will help expend your cat's energy before they settle down for the night.
After the play session, consider offering a bedtime snack. A small meal can be a portion of the cat's daily food, either in an activity feeder or scattered across the floor. This mimics the behaviour of cats who often have a quick nap after they catch and eat their prey. If your cat prefers wet food, a textured mat can be used to make mealtime more engaging.
Creating a calm, comfortable sleeping environment is crucial. A low-stimulation space, such as a room with a Feliway plug-in diffuser and cat music or brown noise on a low volume, can help promote relaxation. Sleep bulbs that block blue light are also suggested for sleep areas.
It's essential to avoid stimulating activities or loud noises before sleep. Dimming the lighting at sleep areas can further promote sleep. Consistency in timing is also key to establishing a routine.
A bedtime routine can teach a cat when it's time to sleep. By following these expert recommendations, you can help your cat establish healthy sleep habits and enjoy a restful night.
However, if you're concerned that your cat is sleeping too much, it's always advisable to consult a vet. Cats, on average, sleep 15 hours a day, with variations due to age and health. If you notice any significant changes in your cat's sleep patterns, it's essential to seek professional advice.
- The food offered at bedtime can be a portion of the cat's daily rations, either in an activity feeder or scattered across the floor, mimicking the behavior of cats who nap after eating prey.
- The sleeping environment for cats should be calm and comfortable, preferably a low-stimulation space like a room with a Feliway plug-in diffuser and cat music or brown noise on low volume, or sleep bulbs that block blue light.
- Dimming the lighting in sleep areas can further promote sleep and it's important to avoid stimulating activities or loud noises before bedtime.
- If you observe any significant changes in your cat's sleep patterns, consult a vet, as cats typically sleep 15 hours a day, with variations due to age and health.
