Cats are naturally Crepuscular (meaning most active at dawn and dusk), and sleep throughout our working day. The cat's day then begins when their owner arrives home to provide food, play and social interaction. It is important that we manage this schedule to help attain an evening of sleep for the humans of the household.
Typical NIght Active Behaviours
Typical complaints are cats that nibble or even attack the owner's ears or toes in bed, walking across the sleeping owners, night time vocalisation, or explosive, uncontrollable play sessions across the furniture and/or owners, during the night or early morning. Sometimes owners can inadvertently reward the behaviour by giving the cat a little food, affection, or attention to try and calm the cat.
Routine
Look closely at your cat’s schedule and routine and seek to modify it to ensure we have addressed their needs.
Social Needs
Since night time activity may be a form of social play and attention-seeking behaviour, the first consideration is whether your cat is getting sufficient amounts of social interaction and social play during the times you are home. This may be particularly problematic for an only cat in the household and an owner who works all day. Offering several social play sessions with chase toys, as well as some reward-based training exercises might help to fill your cat's needs.
