Cats Sleep Twitching: Possible Causes Explained

Why Cats Shiver and Twitch While Sleeping

1. Digestive Spasms

Cats, as they eat, allow their food to slowly pass through the gastrointestinal system for digestion. Sometimes, what appears to be abdominal spasms or twitching in cats might actually be related to indigestion. After eating, cats often promptly fall asleep, unaware of the need to move around to aid digestion. This is especially true if they consume large amounts of food or eat too quickly, making the digestion process more difficult. The gastrointestinal system then has to work harder to break down the food, leading to spasms.

To prevent this, it's crucial for owners to feed their cats regularly and in appropriate portions. Avoid overfeeding and ensure that meals are spaced out adequately. By adhering to the principle of "less is more," owners can help their cats digest food more efficiently, reducing the likelihood of spasms caused by indigestion. This approach can significantly decrease the frequency of twitching episodes.

2. Cats Getting Cold

While cats have thick fur, they are still susceptible to the cold, especially hairless cats. During cold weather or sudden drops in temperature, inadequate warmth can lead to chilling. Cats that feel cold may shiver and twitch. Therefore, it's important for owners to maintain a comfortable temperature in their homes, especially during the summer when air conditioning can be too cold. If a cat shivers and twitches due to the cold, the owner should promptly move it to a warmer location to help it regain its temperature.

3. Cats Dreaming

Did you know that cats dream too, just like humans? During dreams, cats may exhibit large movements, such as jumping or running, or even have dreams about eating delicious food, which can cause brief twitching. This is an unconscious behavior, and sometimes cats might even be startled by their own actions, only to fall back asleep shortly thereafter.

4. Muscle Spasms

Cats may experience muscle spasms, which can manifest as twitching. Older cats, for instance, may suffer from muscle weakness, while other cats may exhibit spasms due to musclerelated issues. Although these spasms may not significantly impact the cat, it's important for owners to monitor their pets for any discomfort and seek treatment promptly if necessary.

5. Other Health Issues

Beyond these nondiseaserelated causes of twitching, cats may also experience spasms due to underlying health conditions that owners are unaware of, such as parasitic infections or internal diseases causing pain. It's essential for owners to pay close attention to their cats and observe any changes in behavior. If in doubt or if twitching occurs frequently, it's best to consult a veterinarian to ensure the cat's wellbeing.

OxyPet Doctor's Summary: There are many reasons why cats may twitch while sleeping, ranging from normal phenomena to potential health issues. If owners find it difficult to determine the cause of their cat's twitching, it's best to seek veterinary advice to ensure the cat's health and safety.