A common concern among pet owners is that their cats are extra active at night. They have a lot of energy and want to play with you. If your feline's night crazies are keeping you up all night, you better read this because we've researched the recommended playtime period to help you manage their night activity.
It is recommended that you play with your cat for 15 to 20 minutes before bedtime so that they can let out all their excess energy. This pre-bedtime play session will make the cat calmer and help them sleep better through the night.
Continue reading because we'll tell you more about playtimes with your cat all throughout the day. This is so that they'll have an outlet to release all their energy and will be calmer during bedtime to let you sleep peacefully. Without further ado, let's get into it.
Why Play With Your Cat Before Bed?
Felines are crepuscular beings. This explains why they are especially active in the evenings and at the crack of dawn.
This is linked to the fact that their ancestors usually hunted their prey at these times when it was not too bright nor too dark. It was easier for them to pounce on small animals without being caught by large predators.
However, their nighttime behavior can be frustrating for some pet parents, as this is the time when they go to sleep. Their cats want to play, but all they want to do is rest and go to slumberland.
If you're one of these pet parents, experts have a fun suggestion for you. Play with your cats before bedtime! This will tire them out and help release all the energy that they've bottled up inside.
It doesn't have to be a strenuous activity on your part. You can give them toys to play with, create an obstacle course, or try a cat tower. Cats like short play sessions, so a 15 to 20-minute playtime before bed is enough to ensure that both you and your cat get a good night's sleep.
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How Do I Entertain My Cat At Night?
Of course, you also entertain your cat at night by playing with her before bedtime. You can keep them engaged when you play chasing or fetching games. After playtime, your pet will be more relaxed and ready for bed.
But let's face it. Sometimes you just really want to lay down in bed and go straight to sleep. This means you won't be able to play with your cat anymore. Don't worry. There are toys and pet accessories designed to help you manage your cat's behavior at night so you can sleep without any distractions.
Here are some of them:
1. Cat Toys
Toys go first on our list. You can buy new toys for your cat to play with. They will keep them busy and help release their excess energy. Glow in the dark toys will also keep them entertained at night. Make sure you rotate their toys so that she won't get bored with them.
You can also make your own cat toys or use what you have at home. Cats love playing with cardboard boxes, paper bags, or egg trays. Just make sure they are clean, and remove the stuff that can pose safety risks before you give them to your cat to play with.
Click here to see these interactive cat toys on Amazon.
2. Puzzle Feeders
You can also get those puzzle feeders filled with treats inside. These are also great for your cat's mental stimulation as they try to figure out how to get the food out.
Click here to see this interactive puzzle feeder on Amazon.
3. Comfortable Bed
You should also make certain that your pet has a comfortable bed or place to rest. You can put soothing toys on her bed to help them relax.
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4. Cat Furniture
You can also invest in cat furniture such as scratching posts, climbing frames, and cat trees. Aside from keeping your furball engaged for hours on end, these will also divert their attention from your home's actual furniture. No damages. Everybody is happy!
Click here to see this cat furniture on Amazon.
These are just some of our recommendations on how you can entertain your cat at night. You can be creative and find other ways to keep them busy until they feel the need to go to bed. Eventually, your furball will be able to adjust to your sleeping schedule.
But if you notice any changes in your pet's nighttime habits, you can observe what's keeping them up all night. It could be that they're hungry or thirsty. Or better yet, you can take them to the vet to rule out any medical issues and get expert advice on how to train your pet to sleep all through the night.
When Should I Stop Playing With My Cat?
Playtime is a great opportunity for you to bond with your furball. But you don't have to play all day. We know you've got other stuff to do. That's why experts recommend that you engage your pet in 15 to 20-minute playtime at least twice a day.
When playing with your cat, timing is very important. You don't just end it abruptly. It might make them more restless than before. Observe your pet. They will let you know when they have had enough playtime.
Your cat could just walk away or stop playing with you. Some felines show signs of anger or agitation while playing. These are some of your cues to end your playtime.
Ideally, your furball should feel a lot calmer, better, and fulfilled after your playtime with them. You don't want your pet to be stressed or too tired from your bonding activity.
How Much Playtime Do Cats Need A Day?
As pet parents, it is our duty to fulfill our cats' needs. This does not just involve their nutritional needs but also their need for our love and attention. Playtime is one activity that proves to be a great bonding experience between pet parents and their cats.
Experts recommend that you spend at least 30 minutes of playtime with your pet daily. You can divide this into 2 fun sessions within the day of 15 minutes each so that they won't get overly tired or too stimulated. You can play chase, use different toys, or use food puzzles to keep them engaged.
Click here to see this food puzzle on Amazon.
How Long Do Cats Stay Playful?
Play is a good outlet for cats to let out their excess energy and predatory instinct. But they don't have to be playing all day long. They do get tired, too, and lose their interest. In general, they like short sessions of playtime at least 2 times a day.
However, this would vary according to your cat's personality and stage of life. Kittens up to 6 months of age are at their most playful stage. They would actually benefit from these fun activities, as they help in developing their sense of balance and agility.
Meanwhile, adult cats, especially those aged 7 years and up, become less active and may seem no longer interested in playing. They have come to appreciate their everyday routine and become comfortable with their environment.
These behavioral changes are normal. As cats mature, they lose their drive to play. So, for those with little furballs, enjoy their playfulness and have fun with your little pals.
Final Thoughts
It's natural for cats to be active at night. It's up to us fur parents to manage their daily activities so that they are trained to sleep at night.
Playing with them for 15 to 20 minutes before bed is ideal. This way, everyone gets a good night's rest and is ready for tomorrow's promise of fun and adventure.
For more tips and recommendations on how to manage your cat's nighttime activities, check out these other posts:
Should You Leave A Light On For A Cat?
10 Best Cat Beds For Large Cats
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