Tag Archive for: sleep

Why do Animals Dream?

Why do Animals Dream?

Have you ever wondered if animals dream? Do they experience vivid adventures and imaginative scenarios while they sleep, just like humans? The realm of animal dreams is a captivating subject that has intrigued scientists and animal lovers for centuries.

We probably all have observed our dogs as they sleep and we wonder as they whimper, growl and move their feet like they are chasing something. Even our kitty’s seem to dream, they suckle, knead and chirp while sleeping and we all agree it’s adorable! In this article, we will explore the intriguing question of why animals dream, shedding light on the mysterious inner lives of our fellow creatures.

Understanding Dreams

Dreams, defined as a series of thoughts, images, and sensations experienced during sleep, are a universal phenomenon among humans. They often serve as a gateway to our subconscious mind, allowing us to process emotions, memories, and experiences. But what about animals?

There is some pretty good scientific evidence that shows that many animals large and small, domestic and wild, have a dream state where they may be replaying that day’s events. We know that humans experience rapid eye movement sleep or REM. This is called the dream state and we are now seeing that animals have these REM cycles too. It is marked by rapid eye movement (REM) and studies have shown that there is a lot of electrical activity going on in the brain during this time.

Reptile, mammal, and bird brains have been studied while in the REM cycle and they show the same highlighted patterns in the brain as their human counterparts.

Interestingly enough, a 2015 study on rats showed that when the rats were shown food right before going to sleep, they seemed to map out how to get to the food in their sleep!

One of the more interesting subjects to observe sleeping is the octopus. It is fascinating to watch this clip of the many color changes while the octopus rests. Whales, porpoises, and dolphins show evidence of REM sleep as well. They have the ability to put half of their brain to sleep while the other half stays awake monitoring their breathing and awareness of their surroundings.

It appears that when animals dream they activate the area in the brain called the ‘Pons’ that in turn gets the ‘medulla’ going which inhibits neurons in the spine that cause a type of ‘paralysis’. In this way the sleeping animal doesn’t actually get up and chase a squirrel, it would seem though, that not all the neurons are blocked, and that is what we see in the movements and vocalization they perform while sleeping.

It is interesting to note that big dogs dream longer but less frequently than small dogs, who have shorter but more dreams during their sleep time. Puppies and kittens have more dream periods than the adults and scientists believe it is helping their young brains by building neuron pathways. Deep sleep is vital to overall health. Animals and humans who are not getting enough REM sleep have shown a higher incidence of physical and psychological disorders.

What do animals dream about?

There isn’t any way to prove what animals dream about. However, of the millions of pet parents worldwide who can attest to observing their pet dreaming it would seem that our pets and animals in general dream about what is important to them.

Horses have been observed running, dogs bark, whine and make digging motions. Cats are observed hissing, purring and suckling. Birds are observed singing in their dreams. And as mentioned above rats are devising ways in their dreams of getting to the food!

Why do animals dream?

Most researchers would agree that dreams are a very important part of learning and development. It seems to help the dreamer understand the world around them and how they function in it. While the exact purpose of animal dreams remains a topic of ongoing research, several theories have emerged to explain their significance.

Memory Consolidation: Dreaming may play a crucial role in memory consolidation for animals. During sleep, the brain processes and organizes newly acquired information, strengthening neural connections and enhancing learning. Dreams could provide a means for animals to reinforce important experiences, fine-tune their skills, and adapt to their environment effectively.

Emotional Regulation: Dreaming might also serve as a mechanism for animals to regulate their emotions. Just as humans process and resolve emotional experiences during dreams, animals may use this state of sleep to cope with stressful or challenging situations they have encountered. Dreaming could help them process emotions, reducing anxiety and promoting emotional well-being.

Survival Skills Development: Animal dreams may contribute to the development and refinement of survival skills. For example, a predator may rehearse hunting techniques or anticipate potential threats during dreams, enhancing its ability to survive in the wild. Similarly, prey animals might simulate escape scenarios, preparing themselves for real-life dangers they may encounter.

Brain Development and Adaptation: Dreaming could play a crucial role in the development and adaptation of an animal’s brain. The formation of new neural connections and the rewiring of existing ones during dreams may contribute to cognitive development, problem-solving abilities, and overall brain plasticity.

Conclusion

Appreciating the inner lives of animals, including their dreams, fosters a deeper understanding and empathy for the diverse creatures that share our planet. The next time your pet sleeps you can smile at the sweet dreams they are having. Whether it is chasing a ball or going for that Frisbee, digging for that bone or chasing the butterfly this deep sleep will undoubtedly benefit your pet so let them rest and enjoy themselves.

Why do Cats Sleep so Much?

Why do Cats Sleep so Much?

 
Are you ever curious why cats sleep so much? Scientists have studied the sleeping habits of kitties it turns out they can sleep 12 – 20 hours a day! If there was an Olympic medal for sleeping then our house-lions would take bronze, silver and gold! In this blog, we’ll explore why felines need so much sleep and discuss how understanding their sleeping habits can help keep your cat healthy. We’ll also explain what crepuscular activity is and how it affects your cat’s sleeping patterns. Sleep is an essential part of your cat’s life, and understanding why felines need to sleep so much can help ensure your pet remains healthy and happy.

Why do cats sleep so much?

 
Cats are one of the sleepiest creatures on the planet. In fact, they spend up to 16 hours a day sleeping! This 16 hours spent asleep is the same amount as their bigger wild relatives. This can increase to 18 hours as indoor cats sleep more than outdoor kitties.  Mostly because they have fewer concerns or worries.

So, why do cats sleep so much?

 
One reason is that they are crepuscular, which means that they are most active during dawn and dusk. To conserve energy during the rest of the day, cats sleep for long periods. Additionally, sleep is important for felines as it helps them to recharge their batteries, maintain their body temperature, and keep their immune systems in top condition. While asleep, cats go through various stages of sleep, including deep sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. These stages are crucial for maintaining cognitive function and overall well-being. So, the next time you see your cat dozing off, remember that they are following their natural sleep patterns while maintaining their health and vitality.

What does crepuscular mean?

 
Here is a fun word: crepuscular! Crepuscular is an adjective used to describe animals that are most active during the hours of dawn and dusk. This term is particularly associated with cats, as they are crepuscular animals by nature.
 
One reason why cats sleep so much is because their crepuscular nature means that they have bursts of energy during these hours, and they need rest between to fuel their activity. Another reason why cats need to sleep for long periods of time is because their sleep is crucial for their health and well-being. During sleep, cats are able to rest and recharge, and their body can carry out important functions such as cell repair and growth.
 
By getting enough sleep, cats are able to maintain their energy levels, keep their immune system strong, and stay healthy

What is the importance of sleep for cats?

 
Felines love to sleep, and they do so for good reasons. While it may seem like they are lazy creatures, they are, in fact, designed for restful sleep. This is because they are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours of the day. So, they need to rest and conserve their energy during the other parts of the day. Also, cats need more sleep than humans because their sleep cycle is different. They experience more light sleep and have shorter deep sleep stages, which results in them needing to sleep for a longer period of time to feel rested. Furthermore, sleep is essential for kitties to maintain good health as this is the time that their body repairs and regenerates tissues, builds bone and muscle, and strengthens their immune system. Thus, if a cat is not getting enough sleep, it can lead to several health issues. To ensure that your cat gets the rest they need, provide them with a warm and comfortable place to sleep, away from any distractions that could disrupt their rest.
 
Our kitties are also carnivores, meat eaters, and generally they sleep more than herbivores Wild cats are meat eaters so they sleep to recover energy to hunt again and because our cats behavior mirrors that of their wild ancestors they sleep a lot too. Even though the farthest any of my cats have ever traveled to get food is from the top of the couch to the counter where I have placed their bowl!

What are the benefits of sleep for cats?

 
Kitties sleep for long periods of time, with some cats sleeping up to 20 hours a day. But why do cats sleep so much, and how does it benefit them? The answer lies in their biology. Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. Sleeping for long periods of time during the day allows them to conserve energy for their peak activity times. Additionally, our house-panthers are predators, and their sleep patterns reflect their hunting habits. They often sleep for short periods of time throughout the day and night to recharge their energy and be ready for quick bursts of activity to catch prey. Sleep is also important for a cats’ health and well-being. During sleep, cats are able to repair and regenerate their bodies and minds, improving their immunity, cognitive function, and health. As always, it’s important to make sure your kitty has a comfortable and safe place to sleep, and that they are getting enough sleep for their age and activity level.

Is my cat sleeping too much?

 
If they sleep excessively and lose interest in playtime and meals, it could be a sign of illness or depression. Ruling out medical reasons and the age of your cat you need not worry that Felix is getting too much sleep. The same is true if you house-jaguar is sleeping too little. As long as they are acting their usual selves there is typically no reason for concern.
 
Let’s face it, most of us cat parents kind of admire the way our cats look at life.  It is a proven fact that cats improve our health by reducing stress. As long as your feline companion is getting enough exercise and a balanced diet, there is no need to worry about their napping habits.
 
Still concerned about your kitties napping habits? It may be time for a trip to the vet.

Conclusion

 
Although kitties may sleep for up to 16 hours a day, this is perfectly normal behavior for them. While cats are known for being independent, they rely on sleep for their physical and mental well-being. During their periods of rest, cats are able to recharge their energy levels, improve their cognitive function, and enhance their immune system. It’s also worth noting that, as crepuscular animals, felines have evolved to be most active during dusk and dawn, making it necessary for them to sleep at other times of the day.
 
Take the time today to appreciate your cat’s ability to sleep.  There is nothing quite like giving a light ear rub to a slumbering cat, that is then met by a soft mew of your perfectly wonderful feline.   Bliss unmatched!
How Much Sleep Does A Cat Need?_Header

How Much Sleep Does A Cat Need?

How Much Sleep Does A Cat Need?_Header

How Much Sleep Does A Cat Need?

Have you ever wondered how much sleep does a cat need? Do you think your cat is sleeping excessively? There’s a good chance that they’re not!

Understanding Why

Cats are a crepuscular animal

Cats are most active between dusk and dawn which means they sleep during the day and wake up around the evening. This is also referred to as crepuscular. Hamsters, rabbits, ferrets, red pandas, wombats, foxes, and most large cats all fall into the crepuscular classification. Because of this your cat will enjoy screaming at you at the fine hour of 2AM instead of 2PM.

Then why is my cat active during the day?

Domestic animals can shift their schedule to match their caretakers. That’s why your cat will still wake you up at 10AM for breakfast even though it’s well past dawn. Most animals don’t enter REM sleep, that deep sleep humans do, because they are still wired to be on the lookout for predators. So they’ll always have one ear open to be ready to wake up at a moments notice.

Sleep is in their DNA

Our feline companions are remarkably similar to their wild big cat counterparts. If you’ve ever watched a nature documentary about big cats I’m sure you’ve noticed how lions and cheetahs have a big burst of speed but can’t always keep up with their faster prey who can run for longer. Big cats need to conserve their energy for these hunts and while Mr. Noodles doesn’t need to hunt a gazelle, those same mechanisms of conserving energy are still in place.

How much sleep does a cat need?

Cats need an average of 12-16 hours a day but some days your kitty can sleep up to 20 hours. If the weather is gloomy, just like humans, you might find your cat laying low and sleeping more. This is also true if you have an older, arthritic pet where the changes in air pressure can make their joints ache.

Sleeping too much or to little?

What if my cat isn’t getting enough sleep?

If your cat isn’t getting enough sleep it’s time to talk to your veterinarian. You cat could be suffering from anxiety due to changes in the house that don’t allow them to sleep. Or it could be a sign of another health issue. You might also not think your cat is getting enough sleep when in fact they are. Cats are well, cats. They sleep whenever they please and they most likely won’t sleep for the full 12-16 hours at once.

What if my cat is sleeping too much?

It’s also time to visit a veterinarian if you feel your cat is sleeping too much. As our cats age, just like people, they tend to sleep more. Or if your cat has recently had surgery and is recovering you can expect them to be sleeping for longer periods. They may also sleep more if you’ve had a lifestyle change, moved houses, new baby, or even rearranged your furniture. If your cat is suddenly sleeping more and you can’t think of a reason it’s time for a vet appointment.

How many hours does your cat sleep? Are they are 12 hour kind of cat or a 20 hour? Let us know in the comments as we’d love to hear about your cats.

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep? Header

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep?

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep? Header

Where Does an Overnight Pet Sitter Sleep?

One of the most common questions we get asked is “Where does a pet sitter sleep overnight?” And the answer might shock you:

Anywhere you give them the okay to sleep!

Some of the most common places our pet sitters sleep are:

  • Guest bedrooms
  • Master bedrooms
  • (Comfy) couches

Our sitters do enjoy when clients have freshly washed any bedding as it helps them settle in. Your pet sitter will often bring their own pillow and blanket to sleep with and to lay on top of any bedding already on the bed or place on a comfy couch. When it comes to picking a place for your pet sitter to sleep we recommend picking a place that your pets are used to sleeping. If your pets sleep in the master bedroom with you we recommend your pet sitter sleeping in the master bedroom. If you’re not comfortable with that, a guest bedroom or a preferably comfy couch is another great option.

Don’t have a guest bedroom or you don’t want your sitter sleeping on the couch? No problem. Air mattresses, roll-out beds, and futons are also options!

 

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How Does Overnight Pet Sitting Work? Header

How Does Overnight Pet Sitting Work?

How Does Overnight Pet Sitting Work? Header

For people who have never used a pet sitter, the idea of having overnight pet sitting can be a little daunting! Here we try to explain everything you need to know so you can decide if overnight pet sitting is right for you and your fur kids.

How Long are Overnight Stays?

At Wet Noses Pet Sitting, we offer two different overnights:

  • Standard Overnight which is 9-10 hours long
  • Extended Overnight which is 12 hours long, usually 7pm-7am

In most cases, unless you have a dog door or only have cats, we also require a visit during the day. We can help you choose visits that are best for you.

What Animals Need Overnight Stays?

We most commonly see overnight stays being used for dogs, but that is not to say that some cats do not appreciate them! If you have pets that are used to, and enjoy, company in the evenings, then overnights would be a good fit. You also may have pets that need to monitored more closely due to heath problems, or are young and exuberant and need more exercise! I have an older cat that likes to sleep on the bed next to a person, so even when we take the dog with us, we still get an overnight sitter.

What Happens During an Overnight Stay?

Depending on whether you chose a Standard or Extended Overnight, the sitter will have varying amounts of time.

  • During a Standard Overnight, the sitter will have enough time for feeding, medications and a quick walk. The same basic activities that happen during a pet sitting visit.
  • During an Extended Overnight, the sitters usually arrive between 7-8pm. This allows them time for playtime, a longer walk, plant watering and extra cuddling! During these longer overnights the sitter will generally spend the extra time hanging out with your pets and keeping them company. For households with a lot of pets, this extra time also allows the sitter to perform any additional tasks that are hard to complete during the day visits.

Where Does the Sitter Sleep?

The sitter can sleep wherever you are comfortable, but we often recommend that the sitter sleep in the room your animals are most accustomed to. The sitter can sleep in your bed, in a guest room or on a comfortable couch. Some animals do not mind where your sitter sleeps, but if you have a dog or a cat that has a specific routine, you should consider sticking with the normal bedroom.

Some clients will wash the sheets before leaving, especially for longer trips. Then the sitter will wash the sheets before you return. Some sitters prefer to bring their own bedding. These are details you can work out with your sitter during the introductory meeting. If you want to learn more about this specific topic, see our post here.

Still Having Trouble Deciding?

We have written up suggested schedules depending on what pets you have. Shy cats have very different needs than active dogs. Or Call Us to discuss schedules based on the specific needs of your pets!