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Cat Sleep Twitching: When to Worry

Cat sleep twitching is normal, but it can sometimes signal health issues. Learn what to watch for and when to call the vet.

This cat is sleeping. It is white and black color.
This cat is sleeping. It is white and black color.

Cat Sleep Twitching: When to Worry

Cats spend a significant portion of their day sleeping, with an average of 12 to 18 hours. During this time, they may experience twitching, similar to human sleep movements. This phenomenon is usually harmless but can sometimes indicate underlying issues.

Cat sleep twitching often occurs during the rapid eye movement (REM) cycle, which lasts about six minutes. During REM sleep, cats' bodies go into a state of complete muscular relaxation. However, if the twitching lasts longer than a few minutes or is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty walking, excess drooling, collapse, seizures, or sensitivity when touched near the tail, it's best to consult a veterinarian. This could indicate a seizure or other neurological issues. Cat twitching in sleep could also be a sign of feline allergies or itching from a flea bite. If a cat's twitching is accompanied by other symptoms like difficulty walking, excess drooling, collapse, seizures, or sensitivity when touched near the tail, it's best to consult a veterinarian. This could indicate a seizure or other neurological issues. Cat twitching in sleep could also be a sign of feline allergies or itching from a flea bite.

While cat sleep twitching is usually harmless, it's important to monitor your cat's behaviour and consult a veterinarian if you notice any unusual symptoms. Neurologically spezialisierte Tierärzte, Veterinärverhaltensmediziner, erfahrene praktizierende Tierärzte, and Internisten can all provide valuable insights and guidance.

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