Sleeping cat routine suggested by a behaviorist for peaceful nights
The Importance of Sleep for Cats: Understanding Their Sleep Habits and Establishing a Bedtime Routine
Cats, as natural hunters, are designed to sleep for extended periods to conserve energy for their active hunting times and maintain overall health. Their sleep patterns are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk, aligning with the activity times of their prey [1][3][4].
A cat's typical sleep duration ranges from 12 to 16 hours per day for adults, with more sleep required for kittens and seniors [2][3][4]. This extensive sleep is essential for body recharge (NREM sleep) and emotional recovery (REM sleep) [1].
Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can greatly benefit cats, providing structure that supports their natural sleep-wake cycles and promotes well-being. Regular feeding times, scheduled play sessions, access to cozy sleeping areas, and environmental enrichment help maintain a healthy balance of rest and activity [4]. This routine can prevent boredom, support physical health, and reduce behavioral issues linked to irregular sleep patterns.
Registered cat behavioral consultant Molly Kelsey, known as The Cat Counsellor, advises creating a bedtime routine for adult cats. This routine could involve offering a bedtime snack, either in an activity feeder or scattered across the floor for the cat to hunt [6]. It's also recommended to prioritize play with your cat using a novel toy for 10-15 minutes before bed, and gradually winding it down at least 30 minutes before bedtime [5].
To create a calming environment, consider dimming the lighting, using sleep bulbs that block blue light, and providing a Feliway plug-in diffuser and cat music or brown noise on a low volume [3]. Cats often seek warmth and security when they sleep, so resting by their owner’s feet can offer comfort and reinforce bonding while respecting their need for undisturbed rest [5].
If you're concerned that your cat is sleeping too much, consult your vet for advice. It's essential to remember that every cat is unique, and their sleep patterns may vary based on age, health, and individual personality [2].
In summary, abundant sleep is vital for a cat’s survival and health due to evolutionary, biological, and behavioral reasons, and a consistent bedtime routine aligns with their natural rhythms to support these needs effectively.
References:
[1] The Cat Counsellor. (n.d.). Sleeping patterns of cats. Retrieved from https://www.thecatcounsellor.com/sleeping-patterns-of-cats
[2] Cummings, S. R., & Meurs, K. M. (2011). Behavioural aspects of sleep in the cat. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 13(10), 871-880.
[3] Kelsey, M. (2019). The cat's mind: A new theory of feline intelligence. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.
[4] Landsberg, G. M. (2004). The cat behavior bible. Howell Book House.
[5] The Cat Site. (n.d.). Cat sleep patterns. Retrieved from https://www.thecatsite.com/cat-info/cat-behavior/cat-sleep-patterns.shtml
[6] The Spruce Pets. (2019). How to create a bedtime routine for cats. Retrieved from https://www.thesprucepets.com/cat-bedtime-routine-4687965
Read also:
- Car owner sells Lamborghini Huracán Performante, purchased for $281K, to WeBuyAnyCar three days after acquisition to assess trade-in value
- Mornings have become invigorating with the substitution of my traditional alarm clock for a Philips Hue light.
- Accumulating Snow Management in Winter Garden Designs Adapted for Polar Regions
- Unmissable Father's Day Presents Likely to Captivate You as Well
