While cats can be a source of joy, laughter, and affection during the day, the situation may be different at night.
At times, you may need to confine your cat to a room at night for various reasons, such as behavioral issues, safety concerns, or medical reasons.
Our cat sleeps with us in the bedroom and we actually lock the door at night, which is ironic because I never thought of that as confining her as we would normally open the door when she wants to leave.
I do not like the idea of confining a cat to a single room, whether night or day because I like my cats to roam as they please, but if you have to do it here are some things to think about before you do:
1. Understanding Cat Behavior at Night
Before you even try to lock your cat in a room, you need to first understand their behavior.
Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are more active during twilight hours (before sunrise and after sunset).
Most cats sleep during the day and become active at dusk. This behavior results from their evolution as natural night hunters, and it still exists in our domesticated cats today.
During the night, cats tend to be more active, playful, and vocal.
However, they might also be more prone to mischief-making, such as knocking over objects, scratching furniture, or looking for toys to play with.
My cat does this a few nights every week.
I would sometimes find stuffed animals three times her size on the floor in the mornings that she dragged around all night.
2. Reasons for Confining a Cat to a Room
Several reasons may lead you to confine your cat to a room at night.
For your cat’s safety: If your home has several stories or open windows, it may be dangerous for your cat to roam at night.
Illness: If your cat has been recovering from an illness or undergoing medical treatment, confining them to a room can aid in their healing process.
Behavioral problems: Behavioral problems such as excessive vocalization or aggression may warrant confinement to a single room.
3. Choosing the Right Room
Choosing the right room for your cat’s confinement is very important. It’s not a good idea to just put your cat in a room and lock the door.
Consider factors like the size of the room, ventilation, and accessibility.
A room with windows and enough air circulation is vital in promoting a healthy environment for your cat that won’t feel suffocating.
You also want the cat to be comfortable and feel safe. You may need to include their bed, favorite toys, and a litter box. Avoid rooms with dangerous items such as toxic plants or sharp objects.
As a rule of thumb, if you wouldn’t lock yourself in this room and feel comfortable, then you shouldn’t expect your cat to feel good in there either.
4. Preparing the Room
Preparing the room for your cat should involve providing the necessities. Water, food, and a litter box are mandatory.
Ensure that they are kept in separate places that the cat can access easily.
You may also consider placing a comfortable bed or mat and a scratch post in the room to promote stress-free sleep and prevent destructive scratching.
Even though it’s for the night you’re essentially making this space liveable for your cat and you may want to add some toys, especially if your cat likes playing at night.
5. Easing the Transition
Introducing your cat to the room slowly is essential in making the transition less stressful for both you and them.
You may start by putting the cat’s food and water in the room during the day.
Gradually, add their bed and toys until they start coming into the room willingly.
It might also be a great idea to play with your cat during the day with something like a cat prey wand or other interactive toys to make them associate the room with fun and positive experiences.
The idea is to make the cat feel comfortable and safe in the room before you confine them to it at night.
6. Dealing with Potential Issues
Some cats may have trouble adjusting to confinement. They may become destructive.
They may scratch the door, yowl excessively, or refuse to use the litter box.
In these cases, it is best to deal with the issue as it arises.
Provide enough toys to keep them engaged, use pheromone diffusers and Stress stopper relief to promote calmness, as well as consider consulting with a veterinarian or behaviorist.
7. Benefits of Confining a Cat to a Room at Night
Though in my opinion, it’s not very ideal, confining your cat to a room at night can promote your cat’s safety and enables more restful sleep for both of you.
While it may seem restricting, it can be beneficial in taming excessive energy or behavioral issues.
Also, keeping your cat in one room can help in observing any medical problems or changes in their behavior.
However, if your cat is a hyperactive, high-energy cat, confining them to a room is probably not the best idea and you might be better off finding other long-term and more humane solutions to help them be calmer at night.
Confining your cat to a room at night may sound restrictive, but when everything else fails and with more advice from your veterinarian or cat behaviorist it can be necessary to promote a healthy, safe, and peaceful lifestyle.
Time out for cats
Always consider your cat’s overall well-being before making any changes in their routine and be sure that whatever decision you make in this situation is in the best interest of both your cat and yourself.