is my cat having nightmares?

by Cindy
(NJ)

i have a 6 year old spayed orange tabby who is quite large. she is about 18 pounds. she is a little overweight but mostly just a big cat. my question is, the last few days she has been sleeping and wakes her self up meowing. it sounds like she is in pain or scared. almost like she is having nightmares. i have seen dogs dream and cats also, but i think this is the first time i have seen my cat do this? it has started within the last week or so and she has one yesterday and today. do you think she is having nightmares? or should i be worried about a medical problem? id rather not drag her out to the vet if she is okay because it makes her quite upset. i guess she could be having nightmares. my fiance was in the back bedroom today and he came out hearing her cry. he asked what was wrong and why she was crying, i think she is having nightmares? any advise? is this common? if it gets worse should i take her in?

thank you, cindy


Answer by KAte
yes she could be dreaming. My cat will do this from time to time. perhaps she has had a recent experience which is playing on her mind. It may not necessarily be a nightmare i.e a bad dream, cats will often cry out when they are hunting etc, so she may be dreaming of stalking something.

I wouldn't worry too much but if it becomes a common occurrence and persistent then it may be time for a check up at the vets.

best wishes Kate

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