Cat The Importance of Sleep for Dogs & Cats: Finding the Best Towers, Trees, and Scratchers

The Importance of Sleep for Dogs & Cats

written by Tori Holmes

When it comes to your pet’s well-being, few things have as much of an impact as their sleep routines. But why exactly are pet sleep habits so important? The answer lies in their evolutionary history and physiology.

Understanding pet sleep requirements

Both cats and dogs are predators by nature, and when they were in the wild, hunting required bursts of intense energy followed by longer periods of rest to recharge. Even after domestication, this biological need has carried over into their daily lives. While humans typically require 7-9 hours of sleep per night, cats and dogs need significantly more. On average, cats can sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day, while dogs may snooze for 12 to 14 hours, depending on their size, age, and breed.

The importance of pet sleep routines

Now that we have a better understanding of pet sleep requirements, how can we as pet parents ensure that our furry family members are getting enough sleep? Just like humans, our pets thrive on routine and this includes a consistent sleep schedule. A structured sleep routine can help to:

● Regulate their internal clock, promoting better sleep quality and overall well-being

● Provides pets with a sense of security and predictability

● Prevent behavioral issues such as anxiety or aggression, as pets feel less stressed when their daily rhythms are stable

As you can see, having a solid sleep routine can help your pet thrive physically, emotionally, and behaviorally. Next, let’s look into how you can improve your pet’s routine to give them the best possible night’s sleep.

How to improve your pet’s sleep routine

Introducing small changes to your pet sleep routine can have a big impact on their overall well-being. To improve your pet’s overall sleep hygiene, consider the following tips:

● Set a consistent bedtime: Try to establish a regular bedtime for your pet and stick to it as closely as possible. Consistency helps regulate their internal clock, making it easier for them to fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day.

● Choose a balanced diet: Hunger can disrupt sleep, so ensure that your pet's dinner satisfies their hunger and prevents midnight wake-up calls due to hunger pangs. Freshpet recipes are a great choice because we use fresh ingredients to create a balanced meal that will keep your pet feeling full throughout the night.

● Avoid late dinners: Offering your pet a big meal right before bedtime can disrupt their sleep. Just as it's not recommended for humans to eat a heavy meal late at night, pets may experience discomfort or indigestion if they eat too close to bedtime. Aim to feed your pet their last meal of the day a few hours before bedtime to allow ample time for digestion.

● Give them a comfy place to sleep: You can help your pet drift off to sleep more easily by providing cozy bedding and minimizing exposure to loud noises or bright lights. If you think their bed could use an upgrade, take a look at our guide on choosing the best bed for your pet.

● Monitor water intake: While it's essential to provide your pet with access to water throughout the day, it's a good idea to monitor their water intake in the evening to prevent frequent bathroom breaks during the night. Offering water earlier in the evening and limiting access closer to bedtime can help minimize nighttime disruptions.

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of sleep for our furry companions. However, understanding the significance of pet sleep is crucial for ensuring their overall health and happiness. So the next time you catch your cat dozing in a sunbeam or your dog snuggled up in their favorite spot, remember the vital role that sleep plays in their well-being - and let them enjoy their beauty sleep uninterrupted!