Cats are notorious nappers with an adult cat sleeping around 12-16 hours per day on average, and senior cats up to 20 hours.
As they sleep for such a big percentage of the day, you may be wondering, do cats dream?
When a cat is curled up asleep on your lap or in their favorite napping locations around the home, as well as snoring, you may also notice them twitching. Just as humans twitch and make noises when in a deep sleep, does this mean that cats are dreaming and is there any scientific research to prove it?
Do cats dream? We thoroughly researched the subject, and with the help of professionals and veterinarians, we found all of the answers.
Do Cats Dream?
Research has shown that cats along with all mammals dream. Experts came to this conclusion by studying the sleeping patterns and brain activity of rats.
The studies have shown that the level of brain activity produced by a rat is very similar to the activity level during REM (rapid eye movement), which is the deepest level of sleep. This is a big indication that they do actually dream.
As all mammalian brain needs to arrange and organize images from the day, it’s highly likely that cats also dream.
What Do Cats Dream About?
Since brain activity during dreaming and active waking hours are near identical, it is believed that rats dream about the activities that they do during the day, and experts believe that the same applies with cats.
Although there is no real hardcore evidence, it’s more than likely that cats dream about their daily activities such as being petted, the sound of a rattling bag of treats, an interaction or altercation with another cat, and even their owners.
Their dreams may also be distorted and exaggerated in some way, just as human dreams are. It’s also very likely that cats dream about things that have happened in the past.
Just like humans, cats may also have nightmares that are caused by a stressful event that happened during the day, such as a cat or another dog chasing them. A study conducted in 1960 shows that whilst cats are in REM sleep, they will show hunting-like behavior such as hissing and arching their back.
How Do Dreams work?
Sleep is a reduced state of consciousness and voluntary motor activity where interaction with the outside world completely stops. The brain starts processing things that are on our minds, along with interactions and experiences that we have during the day.
When it comes to sleep, there are two different types:
- Rapid eye movement (REM): Dreams are usually detailed and imaginative. You will also notice paw and mouth twitching at this stage of sleep.
- Non-REM: Dreams are short and more realistic.
REM sleep is experienced by a cat every 25 minutes which is three times more frequent than humans which is every 90 minutes. Cats sleep a big percentage of the day and can even reach REM sleep during naps.
Do Cats Have Nightmares?
There is no real evidence to suggest that cats have nightmares or bad dreams, although cats are known to suddenly wake up startled and even hissing which suggest that this may be due to a bad dream.
Common Questions
Do cats sleepwalk?
Although a cats whiskers and paws may twitch during sleep, it is extremely rare that a cat will sleepwalk. Studies have shown that cats only sleepwalk if they are suffering with brain damage.
Do cats always sleep well?
Just like humans, cats can also suffer from various sleep disorders that can interfere with their sleep. This includes Sleep Apnea, Narcolepsy, and Insomnia. These kind of disorders can prevent a cat from reaching REM-induced dreams.
If your cat is having sleeping problems then you should seek the advice of a veterinarian to rule out potential illnesses. They will also advice you on various different things you ca do such as extra playtime to wear your cat out. The extra exercise is great and it also builds a deeper bond between the two of you.
The worst thing you can do is to give in to them during the night. This will condition them to think that this behavior is okay and will make the situation worse.
Why do cats twitch in their sleep?
When a cat is asleep, you may notice all kinds of activity such as twitching, snoring, stretching, and unusual noises. All of these actions are associated with REM sleep, and not seizures, so do not be concerned.
Do cats dream about us?
Although it is not fully proven, it is believed by experts that cats dream about activities and things they experience on a daily basis, including their owners.
How can you tell if a cat is dreaming?
When a cat is dreaming you will notice behavior associated with REM sleep such as twitching, snoring, stretching, and strange noises.
Should you wake up a dreaming cat?
If your cat is in an REM stage sleep then it is advised to not wake them up. Sleep is important and allows a cats immunity to restore and build bones and muscles, especially with kittens.
Do Cats Dream Conclusion
Do cats dream? Although it is near impossible to be 100% certain that cats dream, research has shown that all mammals dream, so it is highly likely that cats do dream.
