Cats do crazy things on sometimes, and we adore them for it! What would we be watching on TikTok otherwise? However, their odd behaviour can create alarm among cat owners. If you’ve ever seen your cat sleep with her eyes open, you understand what we mean. Not only does this appear intimidating, but it may also raise some important issues in your mind. Why do cats sleep with their eyes open? Is this a medical issue? Should I be worried? Continue reading to discover out.
Can felines sleep with their eyes open?
They can. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably seen your cat sleep with it’s eyes open through the whole day. Not all cats can do it, and those that can do it don’t always do so. The first time you find your cat sleeping with her eyes wide, it can be rather startling.
In most circumstances, however, sleeping with open eyes is not a cause for concern. Many cats sleep with their eyes slightly open. Researchers discovered that the characteristic is more common in elderly cats. Even if this is regular behaviour, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your cat. In rare circumstances, sleeping with their eyes open can signal a medical problem. If you find your cat sleeping with her eyes open and twitching, make an appointment with the veterinarian. You may have noticed and wondered why cats twitch when sleeping as they dream. Take note: this could also indicate that your cat has epilepsy. In these situations, it is usually best to be cautious and consult with your veterinarian.
Why do cats sleep with their eyes open?
While this behaviour is not exceptional, you may be wondering how cats can sleep with their eyes open. The reason may surprise you and make you admire your cat even more.
Cats, like humans, have a multistage sleep cycle. When they are sleeping lightly, their eyes are more likely to open. Although they are asleep, their bodies are still aware of their environment and react to everything that happens. You may also observe their ears twitching and gazing the direction of whatever has piqued their interest. While your home is safe, your cat’s instincts never stop. Sleeping with her eyes open allows your kitten to stay aware of her surroundings and feel more at ease. Most cats do not sleep with their eyes open during the deeper REM sleep period.
A cat may also sleep with its eyes open due to an injury. Cats have a transparent third eyelid below the other two. If this eyelid is damaged, your cat may be unable to close her eyes. An eyelid injury is very visible, especially when your cat is awake. If the cat’s eyelid is damaged, it may require surgery. Fortunately, eyelid injury is uncommon and is unlikely to be the cause of your cat sleeping with her eyes open. However, if your cat is suffering any additional symptoms, take her to the vet for a thorough examination.
How do cats lay when they are sick?
So, if sleeping with your cat’s eyelids open is unlikely to be an issue, what is? You’ll become accustomed to all of her many sleeping positions, so you’ll be able to recognise when a new one appears, which could suggest a problem. When your mouser is not feeling well, he or she may hunch over or get tight. That means you should look for her head drooping, but not in a sleepy manner. Only consider this a warning indicator if it occurs immediately or is accompanied by other symptoms such as stomach problems. Finally, when cats have a bug, they may sleep a lot more or remain up all night; keep track of the hours as well.
Should you be concerned?
Most probably, the answer is no; there’s no reason to be concerned because your cat is sleeping with her eyes open. However, if she exhibits additional signs such as twitching, seizures, or ocular injuries, you should see your veterinarian. They can tell you whether your cat has a medical problem. Most of the time, however, it is quite natural—albeit unsettling — for cats to sleep with their eyes open. There is nothing wrong with your kitten.
Cats frequently do things that seem strange, hilarious, and unfathomable to us. Seeing your cat snoozing with open eyes can be unsettling. But keep in mind that cats want to be always aware of their environment, which can lead to them dozing with their eyes open. As far as cats go, they’re rather normal; nothing to worry about.