Why your cat is most active at night: Scientists reveal secrets
Cat owners and those interested in feline habits have long wondered why these animals are often active in the evening and at night. Dr. Mikel Delgado from one of California's universities has spoken on this matter.
19 September 2024 12:39
Cats have a definite daily rhythm. When night comes, they seem to run with unrestrained energy. Their nocturnal antics can seem incomprehensible even to those experienced with cats. Many people wonder about the reasons for this behaviour. However, it turns out that there are scientific explanations for this behaviour.
Scientists explain. Night-time activity of cats is no coincidence
Some believed that cats' nighttime activity was associated with black magic. Science has a different opinion on this subject. Experts acknowledge that cats' nocturnal runs are an intriguing phenomenon on the border between charm and madness. Dr. Mikel Delgado from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California, Davis, explains that this is a common phenomenon with several causes.
Science explains that cats are crepuscular animals. This means they are most active at dawn and dusk, which is related to their natural hunting instinct. Their internal biological clock prompts them to increased activity at these times of the day. Human influence also plays a role in their activity. Cats often sleep during the day when their owners are at work, leading to a buildup of energy for the evening.
Delgado said that cats are usually more active when we are more active, so because many cat owners are not around all day, when they come home, there is more activity at home, and the cats have all this energy accumulated during the day of lounging around.
How to curb a cat's night-time antics?
Dr. Delgado emphasises that there are ways to reduce cats' night-time activity. This may be important for those owners who have trouble falling asleep due to feline play. Solving this problem seems quite simple. She suggests providing more activity for cats during the absence of household members. This can be achieved, for example, through a slow-feed bowl or installing a bird feeder on the balcony, which will provide additional entertainment for the cat.
Other simple objects can also substitute the owner's absence for the cat. Many people use colourful balls that catch the animal's attention, and an interesting idea is boxes in which treats are hidden.
