Cat Waking Up?
And Waking You Up Too?

Understanding Cat Waking Up Behaviour: Summary

  1. Cats are naturally nocturnal and enjoy night time activity. Not their owners!
  2. Management of the cat nocturnal activity problem involves vet checks, looking for medical issues and possibly keeping them out of your vicinity (not most cat owner’s choice!)
  3. Long term solutions involve tiring your cat during the day and attending to all their needs.

Causes of your cat waking you up at night

“Help! My cat is waking me up at night!”

Says almost every cat owner at some stage of their cat’s life!

Is your cat waking you up at night? Cats can be the cause of many sleepless nights and Pet Problems Solved has tips to help you – and your cat – sleep.

It helps to understand the main cause of cat’s waking behaviour…

Naturally nocturnal

Cats are naturally nocturnal animals. They naturally would hunt at dawn and dusk, when small mammals are active.

Given any opportunity, our pets will revert to their natural, nocturnal selves. Unfortunately, they would really enjoy it if their owners kept them company! Or at least got up to open the door or feed them.

Once you’re up, might as well stay up and play!

Read more about cat hunting behaviour.

Unusual feline activity

There are some medical conditions that result in cats being overactive or active at unusual times. Hyperthyroidism can cause an excess of energy in your cat, so if your usually placid pussycat is frantically pacing your place, do get a vet check.

Older cats can suffer from Feline Cognitive Dysfunction – dementia. They will often pace from room to room, sometimes appearing to be lost. They may also have a mournful meow. Again a vet check is in order.

cat waking up. Understanding feline nocturnal behaviour
Is your cat waking up during the night and waking you up too?

Improving your sleep by reducing your cat waking up behaviour

The following tips and suggestions may help your cat waking, wandering and playful behaviour overnight.

A. Play during the day

Cats will tend to sleep during the day if we let them. If we are at work then, chances are, they are sleeping. When you are at home, try to exhaust your cat with a variety of play games. Stop prior to bedtime, to give your cat time to calm down.

B. Calming your cat

Ensure your cat has areas to sleep comfortable overnight and exclude them from your bedroom if you need sleep. Classical music can calm animals, as can anti-anxiety cat medications such as Feliway.

C. Automate your cat’s food

If your cat wakes you up to get fed, try using an automated feeding machine to occupy your cat periodically during the day, to keep them awake and also at night, to help you remain in bed.

Obviously, also make sure that they are getting enough food during the day. Little and often suits cats when it comes to food.

What cats want you to know about their eating habits

D. Shut your bedroom door

For most cat owners, this is not an option. Most of us enjoy sleeping with our cat by our sides. As long as they remain asleep!

If sleep is vitally important to you, you may like to shut your bedroom door with your cat on the other side of it. You can make up for any feelings of guilt by spending time with your cat during the day.

E. Keep the light on

This tip is primarily for those with old cats. Dementia can commonly cause cat waking behaviour and your cat to wander overnight. Leaving a night light on can help them navigate their way around. Perhaps they are just looking for you?

Cat waking up at night
Help! My cat is waking me up at night! Plus he just stares at me!

If you get up overnight

If you do get up to your cat, try to do so when your cat is calm and quiet, as this will reinforce this behaviour. Respond to your cat’s needs but do not give them much attention or play with them. Get back to bed quickly and get your beauty sleep.

Frequently asked questions about cat’s night time activity

How can I stop my cat from waking me up too early in the morning?

Cats may wake you as soon as it’s light or even before! Try to ignore them, then get up when they are quiet, to reinforce their quiet behaviour. Each day get up a little later. If your clocks change during the year, be prepared for some disruption in routine.

Why does my cat come and go from my bed during the night?

Many animals eat grass and although we don’t know exactly why, we know that it can be good for them. Read our greens article for more tips and give your pet access to a clean, grass supply. Watch our video below too.

Why does my cat not want to sleep beside me anymore (and other questions)?

More behaviour questions answered on YouTube

About the author: Dr Jo Righetti

Dr Jo Righetti is an animal behaviourist, helping people with pets. With a PhD in behaviour, a diploma in counselling and over 20 years experience in business Pet Problems Solved, Dr Jo understand pets and communicates here knowledge in a motivational manner.

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