If there is one thing that most people know about felines, it’s the fact that they are nocturnal creatures. This type of night behavior is natural for cats and it is something that most families simply learn to live with over the course of time. Although it certainly is true that night behavior is natural for a cat, it is also a behavior that can be modified if you take the right steps. Just as a human is able to begin working nights and sleeping during the day, it is possible for a cat to begin sleeping at night as well.
First of all, not all cats are going to be the same type of nocturnal creatures. They tend to be more active at night but they may not attempt to wake you up after you go to bed in order to either get your attention or perhaps for something to eat. It tends to happen more when the cat is younger and eventually, many of them will learn to start sleeping through the night without any problem. The nocturnal behavior is something that came from their ancient ancestors and domestication has helped to weed it out to a certain extent.
If your cat is awake frequently at night, you might want to see if there is a medical problem that needs to be addressed. Pain or discomfort can keep your cat up at night and they may be doing more than simply wandering around, they could be crying or meowing all night long. A trip to the veterinarian can help to weed out this problem.
If your cat is keeping you up all night and there is not a medical problem, there are a few steps you can take to help reduce it until they get the bigger picture.
Play Late at Night – Rather than simply allowing your cat to snooze away until they wake up during the middle of the night, try to have a few play sessions with them during the evening time. Play with their favorite toy and that activity will help to tire them out.
Change the Feeding Schedule – Like humans, cats may find it easier to sleep after having a big meal. Switch their large meal of the day to just before bedtime and they may sleep better.
Add a Cat – If you have a social feline, adding a second cat to the home may promote some play and keep them from feeling alone at night.
Keep Them Active – Rather than allowing them to take naps throughout the day, keep them active and you may find that they are more willing to sleep at night.
These are just a few suggestions that can help your cat to sleep at night. It may be a frustrating problem for some cat owners, but it is one that can be overcome.