Every dog and cat owner has seen their precious pet break into a mid-snooze gallop at some point. We all know this happens, but why do they run in their sleep? Dogs and cats often twitch, snarl, bark, or meow in their sleep, in addition to running.
OH, TO DREAM!
Most animals, like people, experience a variety of dreams. The brain waves of a sleeping dog or cat are comparable to those of people when they dream. Because dreaming is beneficial to your pet’s brain, you should allow them to sleep even if they are moving around.
Puppies and kittens can also experience muscle twitches while sleeping. If your pet isn’t dreaming, the twitching is most likely due to muscular twitching, which is a necessary aspect of building strong muscles and training them.
Seizures, on the other hand, are a symptom to be aware of. Dogs can experience seizures while sleeping, albeit this is a rare occurrence. Based on the sort of movement, you should be able to tell the difference between a seizure and dream running.
(REM) DEEP SLEEP
Both REM (rapid eye movement) and slow-wave sleep are experienced by dogs and cats, with REM being a deeper stage of sleep. This is similar to when dreams arise in humans. Because most animals spend less time in REM than humans, they need more sleep to feel rested. Dogs and cats may react to their dreams during REM sleep by moving their legs, crying, whimpering, or even barking/meowing, which explains why they run while sleeping.
Dogs and cats sleep patterns vary depending on their age, size, and exercise habits. Older pets have a slower metabolism and require more sleep, so they nap frequently during the day. Puppies and kittens also require more sleep than adult pets due to the fact that sleep aids in their development.
EXERCISE YOUR DOG
When dogs get enough activity, they fall asleep quickly and are more likely to dream. Providing your dog with mental and physical activity, which can be done indoors during the winter months or at the dog park when it’s not so hot, is vital to helping them get a good night’s sleep.
Your dog or cat is more likely to experience lovely dreams if you provide a soothing environment and a comfortable bed. And don’t skimp on the treats; offer a tasty nibble before bedtime and when they wake up! They’ll love you for that too!
DOG PARKS
When weather permits, take your pooch to their favorite dog park and let them run and blow the cobwebs off. Even interacting with other like-wise pets can be fun chasing each other around the circuit!
In our online Petz Gazette Pet Publication every month, you’ll find a list of local dog parks in YOUR area.
