Has your cat been waking you up at night? Find out what might be behind this behavior and how to solve it!

Some medical conditions get in the way of a good night’s sleep. Be particularly aware if waking you up is not something your cat usually does. For instance, arthritis, hyperthyroidism, and high blood pressure are some of the most common causes for your cat to exhibit this behavior. Call your vet if your cat is repeatedly exhibiting unusual behaviors at night.

If your cat is always alone during the day, he is probably sleeping and accumulating energy to play all night. Look for ways to entertain him while you’re away. Toys and cat trees positioned by the window are a good idea, however, playing with their owners is very important for a cat. It is a form of bonding and making sure you are burning all that energy so your cat can sleep all night!

It is common for a pet owner to respond to calls at night by petting or exchanging their pet’s water, for example. Unfortunately, by doing this, you are teaching your cat that it is okay for him to wake you up. On the other hand, those habits can be reversed! The next time your cat wakes you up in the middle of the night, don’t get up. Your cat will lose interest after a few nights without response.

If you are into the habit of feeding your cat right after you wake up, he might be waking you up to eat. Go on with your morning activities for a while before feeding your cat. You can give him a snack before bed to keep his appetite under control. Finally, ask your vet about dividing his meals into smaller ones to help him feel more satisfied. If your cat only drinks fresh water, buy a water fountain.

Cats see better in the dark because they have light-sensitive receptors in their eyes. If you usually sleep with some light or with the TV on, that may be the reason. Try minimizing and adjusting your lighting, noting what works best for your situation.

Some cats will act out in order to gain attention. Any attention, even if negative, could paradoxically reinforce that attention-seeking behavior. As difficult as it may be, don’t give your cat attention when he wakes you up. In addition, don’t be harsh with him. Besides perpetuating the problem, you could be compromising your cat’s confidence in you.