Why Your Cat Isn’t Sleeping at Night: 6 Common Causes and How to Help

Sleepless nights aren’t just for new parents - cat owners sometimes find themselves wide awake due to their feline’s nocturnal habits. While active, playful cats are fun during the day, nighttime antics can quickly become frustrating. If your cat won’t settle down at night, it could be due to several reasons.

In this blog, we’ll explore six common causes behind a restless cat and provide practical tips on how to help them (and you) get a peaceful night’s sleep. 

1. It’s in Their Nature

Cats are naturally nocturnal creatures, designed to hunt during the twilight hours. This instinct to be active at night can sometimes carry over into their domestic life. However, by building a routine for your pet, you can help them adapt to being more active during the day. Try setting consistent meal and play times during daylight hours to encourage your cat to wind down as night approaches.

Additionally, setting an example by sticking to a regular sleep schedule yourself can reinforce this behaviour. Avoid staying up late watching TV or working if possible, and your cat may follow suit.

2. Basic Necessities Aren’t Being Met

One simple reason your cat might be waking up at night is that its basic needs aren’t being met. Make sure your cat has a balanced diet, access to fresh water at all times, and a clean, accessible litter box. If any of these necessities are lacking, it can cause discomfort and prompt your cat to wake up and become restless.

Unsure if you’re meeting your cat’s specific dietary or lifestyle needs? Contact Taringa Vet for expert advice tailored to your pet.

3. Social Needs

Cats may be independent animals, but they still require social interaction to live happy and healthy lives. If your cat’s social needs aren’t being met during the day, they might seek your attention at night. To prevent this, try to give your cat plenty of affection and playtime while you’re awake. If your cat enjoys the company of other animals, you might even consider arranging occasional playdates with a friend’s pet to keep them socially fulfilled.

4. Boredom or Excess Energy

If your cat is waking up at night to explore or play, they might simply have too much energy left over from the day. Boredom can also lead to nighttime activity. To combat this, make sure your cat is mentally and physically stimulated during the day. Even if you’re at work or busy, you can set up ways for your cat to entertain itself, such as:

• Providing a scratching post
• Offering different foods to keep things exciting
• Rotating their toys to keep them interested

A well-stimulated cat is much more likely to rest during the night, giving you both a chance to sleep peacefully.

5. Changes in Your Home Environment

Cats are sensitive creatures, and changes in their environment can cause stress or anxiety, leading to nighttime restlessness. Some examples of changes that might unsettle your cat include:

• A new person in the household
• Rearranged or new furniture
• Moving to a new home
• New neighbours (particularly if they have pets)

If your cat has recently been exposed to any of these changes, try to ease their anxiety by providing a calm, familiar space where they feel safe. Patience and reassurance can go a long way in helping them adjust.

6. Illness or Anxiety

If your cat has typically slept through the night but has recently started exhibiting restless behaviour, there could be an underlying health issue at play. Illness and anxiety are common causes of disrupted sleep. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, such as:

• Lethargy during the day
• Loss of interest in activities or food
• Vomiting, diarrhoea, or regurgitation

If you notice any of these symptoms or other unusual behaviour, it’s essential to bring your cat to the vet for a check-up. At Taringa Vet, we can assess your cat’s health and provide treatment or advice to help them get back to their usual routine.

If your cat’s restless nights are becoming a regular occurrence, it’s always worth consulting your vet. Whether the issue stems from a behavioural cause or something more serious, a vet can help diagnose the problem and suggest effective solutions. A thorough health check will rule out any physical or mental illness that might be causing your cat’s nighttime activity.

Contact Taringa Vet today to book an appointment or give us a call at 07 3871 3888. We’re here to help you and your cat get the rest you need.