Cats don’t exactly follow our schedule. They are naturally more active at dawn and at the end of the day, so it’s common for them to run about, play or seek attention when the rest of the household is trying to get some rest. The good news is that a consistent routine can help.
Play before bedtime
Set aside a play session in the late afternoon or evening. Use toys that encourage chasing, with breaks and varied movements. Finish with a calmer activity, rather than stopping when your cat is at the peak of excitement.
Create a predictable sequence
Many cats respond well to the ‘play, eat, rest’ sequence. A small meal after playtime can encourage a rest period. Stick to similar times every day and stick to the recommended daily amount of food.
Enrich their day
A cat that spends the whole day without stimulation may save its energy for the evening. Provide scratching posts, high perches, hiding places and safe toys. Rotate the toys rather than leaving them all out at once.
Create a cosy spot
Choose a quiet spot with a comfortable temperature, away from noisy household appliances. Some cats like to sleep up high; others prefer a den. A bed suited to your cat’s preferences makes the area more inviting.
Avoid rewarding waking up
If your cat meows and is immediately given food or playtime, it may learn to repeat the behaviour. Before ignoring it, check that it has water, a clean litter tray and that there isn’t a real problem. Then, try to respond consistently, without shouting, spraying water or using punishment.
Could an automatic feeder help?
When the cat wakes you up solely for food, a programmable feeder can break the association between waking you up and receiving food. Adjust the amount so as not to exceed the daily ration.
When to speak to your vet
A sudden change in sleep patterns, loud meowing, disorientation, excessive hunger or thirst, weight loss and restlessness in older cats warrant a check-up. Night-time changes may be related to pain, stress or illness, and not just habit.
It may take a few weeks for the cat to adapt. Consistency, providing enrichment activities during the day and avoiding punishment are usually more effective than trying to tire the cat out in a single night.