SLEEPY HEADS Why Pets Spend So Much Time Snoozing With busy lives and countless responsibilities, it’s difficult not to look at our pets and feel slightly envious. They live such easy lives — and seem to spend most of them sleeping! You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered why your cat or dog snoozes for so many hours each day, and the answer comes down to biology. Further, their natural hunting hours are between dusk and dawn, so it’s instinct to rest during the day.
Most dogs and cats don’t sleep long and tend to nap over several sessions throughout the day. Some people worry their pet is lazy, but this shut-eye is
essential to your pet’s health. Sleep helps humans and animals alike form memories, learn new things, and boost their immune systems. Depriving your pet of needed rest will usually worsen their health, not improve it. But there is too much of a good thing. Some dogs and cats sleep more than they should because they’re bored. It’s always wise to review the enrichment you’re giving your pet and determine how you can do better. More exercise, toys, and other activities will keep them mentally stimulated. Poor nutrition can also produce low energy in pets.
Christine Hamilton Amanda Cerise Jenni Morlang Mark Drummond Clien th ts e SWpr o e r a d ding Dogs sleep for an average of 12–14 hours each day. Larger dogs spend more time sleeping than small dogs because it takes more energy for them to move around. Puppies and senior dogs also tend to clock extra hours in bed because they need additional time to recharge. Working dogs, however, typically have more stamina and are less likely to nap in the middle of the day. Meanwhile, cats sleep so much they have a type of nap named after them. The Sleep Foundation reports that most cats sleep 12–18 hours daily, with 40% sleeping even more than 18 hours. Cats are wired to sleep so much because they’re predators, and hunting takes a lot of energy.
Crucially, you should schedule a visit with your veterinarian if you notice a shift in your pet’s sleep pattern. Too much sleep and regular grogginess can be a sign of kidney disease, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and arthritis in both cats and dogs. Similarly, too little sleep can be a sign of health problems. But if your pet has sufficient enrichment and follows their usual sleep patterns, they’re only doing what nature tells them.
Do you have a picky feline who will turn its nose up to everything you offer? Try this homemade cat food that even picky eaters can’t refuse! CHaot mFoemo dafdoer Picky Pets Inspired by TopDogTips.com
INGREDIENTS
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1/4 cup chicken breast, unseasoned
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1/2 oz canned clams, chopped (with liquid)
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1/2 cup long-grain rice
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1 tbsp beef or chicken broth
DIRECTIONS
1. Cook chicken in oven or on stovetop until it reaches an internal temperature of 145 F. Cook rice according to package instructions. 2. Once the rice and chicken are cooked, in a large bowl, combine rice, chicken, canned clams, and broth. Mix until all ingredients are combined. 3. Let mixture cool completely, then place in your cat’s food bowl and serve.
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