Cats are crepuscular and therefore like to be out and about at night. However, their sleep rhythm can be adapted to ours. We'll tell you the best way to do this.
A cat's daily routine
A cat's daily routine can look very different: While one cat disappears through the cat flap after breakfast and spends the day outside, indoor cats have a fairly manageable territory. How much variety their day brings depends on their living situation. If everyone has to leave the house to go to work, do things or go to school, the cat lies down and chills out all day.
When everyone comes home again one after the other, there is plenty of variety, but for indoor-only cats that don't have a conspecific at their side, the daily routine can be too little. They are by no means as exhausted in the evening as we are, but have excess energy. As they are nocturnal by nature anyway, they then wander around the house. If they do this quietly, it's no big deal, but some cats meow, scratch at doors, race through the house or look for a toy. This can cost us a good night's sleep and make us feel annoyed. Solutions should therefore be sought.
Why doesn't my cat sleep at night?
There may be various reasons why your cat is not sleeping. The first thing to do is to find the reason:
- The cat has a distinct night rhythm.
- The cat is bored.
- The cat is hungry.
- The cat is not exhausted.
- The cat wants to go outside or into the house.
- The cat wants attention.
- The cat is looking for affection.
- The cat is sick.
What should you do if your cat is bored?
Think about what your cat's daily routine looks like and what could be the reason for the disturbance at night. A common reason is that the cat is simply not tired. A cat that spends most of the day lying around is fit at night. In this case, you should think about what you can do about it.
- Get a second cat
One option is to get a second cat. This is their preferred lifestyle anyway. Together they can chase each other around the home, play, clean and chat. Not only are they much more active during the day than a single cat, but they can also spend time together at night and let you sleep in peace. - Playing together
If a second cat is out of the question, it's up to you. Plan two or three rounds of play every day. Take the cat fishing rod, play mice or play the cat-and-mouse game with your furry friend. Ideally, one of the play sessions should take place in the evening so that the cat is exhausted. - Allow free access
Think about whether you can allow your cat to go outside. Even a cat-safe balcony provides plenty of variety. Of course, a garden or the surrounding area is even better. However, this is only recommended if the area is reasonably safe for traffic. If outdoor access is an option, consider installing a cat flap. This avoids the problem some cat owners have of their cat scratching at the patio door at night and wanting to be let in. Alternatively, get your cat used to not being allowed out after a certain time in the evening.
Cuddles should not be neglected
Cats are very social animals. If there is no other cat in the house and outdoor access is not possible, their humans are the only people they can talk to. You should be aware of this responsibility. Take enough time every day to cuddle together. This is not only good for your cat, but also for you. It has been scientifically proven that a cat's purring is soothing and relaxing. So treat yourself to this free service.
Sleep disorders due to illness
If your cat has been relatively quiet at night for years and then suddenly stops, a medical condition should be considered. Reasons for sleep disturbances could include osteoarthritis, senile dementia, hormone fluctuations, high blood pressure or hyperthyroidism. Take your cat to the vet and have it checked out. If nothing is found, go through the above points and try to find out the reason for the sleeplessness. More attention, variety and affection during the day are often the key to a good night's sleep.