Adopt a behaviorist's straightforward regimen for ensuring your feline friend slumbers peacefully all night long.
Cats, being natural predators, are genetically programmed to hunt at crepuscular times for an advantage over other predators. This hunting behaviour is physically demanding, leading cats to spend much of their time resting to conserve and recharge their energy. On average, cats sleep for about 15 hours a day, with some cats sleeping up to 20 hours, especially kittens and older cats [1][2].
As crepuscular creatures, cats are most active at dawn and dusk when their prey is most active. The rest of the day, they tend to sleep, alternating between light, restful sleep and deeper sleep phases [1]. To help an adult cat sleep better and longer, establishing consistent bedtime routines that simulate natural feline activity and meet their instincts is beneficial.
Here are some tips from Molly Kelsey, a registered cat behavioral consultant, also known as The Cat Counsellor:
- Provide daily interactive play sessions: Engage your cat for 20–30 minutes with toys like feather wands or laser pointers to stimulate both mental and physical activity, helping expend energy [3].
- Create a warm, comfortable sleeping environment: Use cozy blankets or a dedicated cat bed placed in quiet, warm spots to encourage restful sleep [2].
- Maintain a consistent schedule: Align feeding times and playtime around dawn and dusk to match their natural activity cycles, helping regulate their sleep-wake rhythms [1].
- Minimize disturbances: Cats value undisturbed rest; placing their bed in a low-traffic or quiet area can improve sleep quality [5].
- Enrich the environment: Address boredom by providing stimulation throughout the day, including climbing structures or puzzle feeders, reducing excessive daytime sleeping out of inactivity [4].
For a novel toy that moves like prey, consider the Meowfia Premium Felt Cat Cave. This eco-friendly cat bed is made from 100% natural wool and is non-toxic, hand-washable, and vacuum-friendly. Dim the lighting and use sleep bulbs (that block blue light) in sleep areas for cats to further create a calm environment.
Remember, if a cat is sleeping excessively, it's recommended to consult a vet. Cats might sleep to cool down when it's hot, to get through cold and wet weather, or to recharge their batteries. Offer a bedtime snack to your cat, either in an activity feeder or scattered across the floor for them to hunt, as cats often have a quick nap after they catch and eat their prey, which can encourage sleep.
By following these tips, you can help your cat establish a healthy sleep pattern and enjoy a peaceful night's rest.
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