Cats

can cats have nightmares


Do Cats Have Nightmares?

It turns out cats can have nightmares just like humans do. Cats, like humans, experience REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep in which dreams can occur. Animal behavior researcher Jaak Panksepp who studies the emotional lives of animals suggests that cats, like humans, may experience bad dreams from time-to-time.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Cat Nightmares:

  • REM Sleep: Cats experience REM sleep, just like humans, during which they can dream. Signs of REM sleep in cats include twitching whiskers and paws, rapid eye movements and shivering.
  • Dream Content: Since cats can’t voice their dream experiences, it’s hard to know exactly what cats dream about. It’s speculated that cats may dream of memories, meowing and chasing after prey, like mice or birds.
  • Vocalization: Cats often meow, growl or squeak while they are dreaming, especially during the later stages of sleep.
  • Nightmares: Like humans, cats can have nightmares, which can include sensations of fear and distress.
  • Waking Up: When cats have nightmares, they may wake up suddenly and look around the room in a panicked state.

When cats have nightmares, they may become scared and disoriented, just like humans. It’s important to recognize the signs of a nightmare if your cat has one. Comforting your cat during a nightmare and reducing stress can help ease their distress.

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