How to Help Your Cat Adjust to a Sleep Schedule

Is your cat wide awake at midnight and snoozing just as you're starting your day? You’re not alone. While cats are famous for their love of naps, their natural sleep patterns often clash with our own, leading to some late-night zoomies and early-morning meows.

The good news? With a little consistency and the right routine, you can gently guide your cat toward healthier sleep habits and enjoy a more peaceful night yourself.

Cats are crepuscular, meaning they're most active at dawn and dusk. This behaviour stems from their wild ancestors, who hunted during these low-light hours. In a modern home, however, this instinct can translate into bursts of energy just as you're winding down for bed.

Indoor cats without enough stimulation during the day may sleep through the afternoon, only to wake up energised when the household quiets down at night.

Here are some easy ways to help your cat adjust to a routine that better fits your lifestyle:

1. Schedule Daily Play Sessions

   • Cats need mental and physical stimulation every day. Try scheduling two playtimes—once in the morning and again in the evening. Wand toys, laser pointers, and food puzzles can help them burn off energy. Evening play is especially helpful to tire them out before bedtime.

2. Stick to Regular Mealtimes

   • Feeding your cat at consistent times helps set their internal clock. A satisfying dinner served early in the evening often leads to grooming, rest, and eventual sleep. Feeding them just before your bedtime may help reinforce a quiet overnight routine.

3. Create a Cosy Sleep Space

   • Provide your cat with a comfortable, quiet spot to rest—away from the hustle and bustle of the household. This could be a padded cat bed, a sunny perch, or a covered nook. Warm blankets and soft lighting can help them feel calm and secure.

4. Limit Night-Time Stimulation

   • Avoid encouraging midnight antics. Responding to meows, offering food, or engaging with your cat during the night teaches them that being active gets results. Instead, reward calm behaviour during the day and keep nights quiet and uneventful.

5. Stay Patient and Consistent

   • Cats thrive on routine. Stick to your daily schedule, and over time, your cat will adapt. It might take a few weeks, but a steady rhythm of play, meals, and rest will help them adjust.

If your cat’s restlessness is new or unusually intense, it might point to an underlying health concern. Look out for signs such as:

• Frequent meowing or pacing
• Excessive grooming or scratching
• Appetite or weight changes
• Trouble using the litter tray
• Disorientation or confusion

These behaviours can be associated with issues like hyperthyroidism, anxiety, arthritis, or cognitive changes in senior cats. If you notice anything unusual, it's a good idea to book a check-up with our team.

• Responding to night-time meows with food or play
• Leaving high-energy toys available overnight
• Scolding your cat for being active, can create stress

Instead, focus on redirecting their energy during the day and reinforcing calm behaviours with positive routines.

Should I ignore my cat at night?
In most cases, yes! Especially if your cat is healthy. Reinforce calm habits during the day and avoid rewarding noisy night-time behaviour.

Do cats really need a sleep schedule?
Not in the same way we do, but a consistent routine reduces stress, improves behaviour, and helps with long-term well-being.

If your cat’s sleep habits have changed or are affecting their health (or your rest), we’re here to help.

Book an appointment with our team today and get peace of mind for both you and your feline companion.