You´re ready for bed but your cat isn´t
You´ve just crawled between the sheets, pulled up your comforter and are snuggling in for the night. Just as you are on the verge of sleep you hear MEEEOOOW. Your cat has decided it is the perfect time to start serenading you. While you appreciate the thought, now isn´t the best time. What can you do to limit your cats beautiful, yet untimely gift?
- Cats live a hard life, sleeping through the majority of the day. They are creatures of habit - doing what comes natural, resting during the day, and being active at night. So when you are at work or running your daily errands your cat is dutifully taking a nap so that he can be bright eyed and bushy tailed for you upon your return. Again, thoughtful -- just maybe not practical for you. Help your pet burn off some of that excess energy he has so gratefully stored up for you. Break out that laser pointer and give it a whirl around the room. Drag that feather on a stick around for him to chase and attack. Roll that catnip filled ball across the floor for him to catch. Not only is it a joy to watch as your cat swats at his toys and rolls on his stomach with glee as he holds his prize possession between his paws, but you are spending quality time together and wearing him out at the same time.
- Okay, so you have played with your cat and you are the one who got tired out. That´s not exactly how you planned it. You don´t mean to be rude and certainly don´t want to, but you need your sleep. Simply close the bedroom door with the cats on the other side of it. Some cats are determined that nighttime is playtime and by golly you are going to participate -- whether you want to or not. It may seem rude to lock them out, but you need your sleep and they will find other ways to occupy themselves.
- Closing the bedroom door is not so simple you say? Your cat is on the other side meowing and pawing at the door. Hmmmm, that isn´t so conducive to sleep either. It may sound silly or even childish, but it has been known to work -- pull the covers up over your head! When your cat can´t get to you, he or she is likely to move on to more promising endeavors -- like going back to sleep himself.
Persistence is the key to teaching your cat when it is time for bed. Remember not to give in to your cat´s demands, which encourage the unwelcome behavior. Be patient and you will soon be slumbering in peace.
