An interesting phenomenon that many cat owners come across is that cats always like to burrow under a warm quilt and enjoy that sense of hidden security. Although cats do this out of instinct and a need to seek warmth
However, if you let them burrow under the covers, you may be woken up in the morning by the cat's “surprise”. Today, let's talk about how to let cats back to sleep and develop good habits.
1. Understanding why cats like to sleep under the covers.In order to guide the cat back to sleep, first we need to understand why cats like to get under the covers:
(1) A sense of security: the quilt provides a closed, warm environment for cats, making them feel safe.
(2) Warmth: Cats themselves like warm places, and burrowing into the quilt is a way of warming themselves.
(3) Curiosity: Cats are naturally curious and like to explore all kinds of places, and the quilt is a hidden “cave” for them.
Understanding these reasons, we can take some methods to guide the cat back to sleep, rather than always chasing the quilt.
2. Provide a comfortable nest. (1) Choosing a suitable litter
Preparing a comfortable nest for cats is the first step in guiding them back to the nest to sleep. Choosing a soft, warm litter with a certain sense of closure can provide cats with a sense of security similar to that of a quilt.
(2) Add attraction to the cat's nest
Place some of your cat's favorite toys or their scent (e.g. use their favorite blanket) in the litter to increase the attractiveness of the litter. If the litter can attract them, cats will naturally want to go back to sleep.
(3) Make sure the litter is properly located
Cats like quiet, secluded and warm places, so you can place the litter a little away from their daily activities, but not feel too lonely, so that they can sleep safely and comfortably.
3. Establish a regular routine. (1) Adjust the feeding time
A cat's routine is closely related to its diet. Help your cat form a regular routine by feeding it regularly. For example, you can choose to feed the cat at night, so that the cat will naturally go back to the nest to rest after eating.
(2) Setting up a “quiet time”
Set a time in the evening to let your cat know it's quiet time. Dim the lights and play soothing music to create a peaceful atmosphere and help the cat develop the habit of returning to the nest.
4. Positive guidance and appropriate punishment. (1) Positive rewards
When cats return to the nest on their own, give them praise and small snacks to reward them, so that they understand that returning to the nest to sleep is a good behavior to be praised.
(2) Gentle Correction
If your cat continues to go under the covers, gently tell her “no” and gently carry her back to the nest. Do not reprimand loudly, as this may make the cat feel scared.
5. Create a sleeping environment. (1) Keep the environment quiet
Optimize the sleeping environment, such as avoiding noise and keeping the light dim, to make the cat prefer the nest to the quilt.
(2) Add warmth to the nest
Put a small warm cushion in the nest, or use an electric blanket in the cold season (pay attention to safety) to increase your cat's enjoyment of the nest.
Training your cat to sleep back in the nest is a gradual process that requires patience and careful guidance from the owner. Cats not only need a warm environment, but also need to be understood and paid attention to. By providing a cozy nest, establishing a regular routine, and giving positive rewards
It is entirely possible to help your cat develop good habits and enjoy peace of mind and a comfortable night's sleep.