Do Pets Dream? Exploring the Sleep Habits of Cats and Dogs

Have you ever wondered what is going on in your dog’s mind as they sigh, squeak, or move their little legs as though they are running a race or swimming in their favorite pond? While it might seem super cute and you want to capture it via a quick video on your mobile device to show all your friends, it begs the question, doesn’t it? Do pets dream? And if they do, what do dogs dream about? 

Whether your cat wiggles their whiskers or your pup lets out sleepy little woofs, chances are they’re not just resting—they might be dreaming. In this article, we’ll take a look at the sleep habits of cats and dogs, what science says about pet dreams, and why your furry friend might be running marathons in their sleep.

Do Pets Dream Like We Do?

When people dream, it usually happens during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Research suggests we dream at least four to six times a night, and the content of those dreams may reflect what's happening in our daily lives. Interestingly, it doesn’t always show up right away—some scientists refer to this as the “dream lag effect.” That means something you experienced today might not pop up in a dream until several days later. 

But what about our pets? Many people believe that when their dog quivers or their cat softly swats in their sleep, they’re dreaming. While we can’t ask them to confirm it, studies show that animals also go through REM and non-REM sleep stages. So it’s very likely they dream, too. That said, animals might not dream the same way humans do. They may not recall images or string them together into a full story the way we often do.

What Do Dogs Dream About?

So then, if our pets dream, just what are our pups dreaming about? It’s an interesting question to ponder, especially now that we understand that we tend to dream about our experiences. A study by MIT two decades ago looked at rats and found that the animals seemed to relive real-life moments in their dreams—like running through mazes. This has led many to believe that dogs do something similar, dreaming about daily activities like chasing a ball or sniffing around the yard. 

Interestingly, the way dogs dream can depend on their age and size. The American Kennel Club notes that smaller dogs tend to dream more often, but their dreams are shorter, while larger breeds may dream less often, but for longer stretches. And while it’s tempting to comfort a pup making noises in their sleep, it’s best to let them be. Can dogs have bad dreams? Possibly—and about 6% of dog bites occur when they’re startled awake.

What About Our Feline Friends? Can Cats Have Nightmares?

If dogs can have nightmares and you need to let your sleeping beast lie, what about cats? The answer is pretty similar. If your cat seems restless or is whimpering, growling, or even letting out a soft cry, there’s a good chance they’re having a nightmare. And while it might be tempting to comfort them, trust us on this—let your sleeping cat lie. Cats can be disoriented when pulled out of a deep sleep and may swat or scratch before they realize what’s happening. Just think about the last time you were awoken by someone while having a nightmare. It can be unsettling and confusing.

Plus, waking a cat during a bad dream doesn’t just startle them—it can also interrupt their natural sleep cycle. That kind of disruption isn’t helpful and could lead to a groggy or cranky kitty. And since cats can be moody in the first place, the last thing you want to do is contribute to the chaos. The good news is, nightmares—while unpleasant—don’t physically harm your cat. Dreams are often tied to the day’s experiences, so a stressful moment or sudden noise could sneak into their sleep. 

Want to help prevent those scary dreams? Spend some quality time playing with your cat during the day to help them feel content and secure. And hey—why not wear your favorite custom pet sweatshirt while you do it? A great day for your kitty should be a great day for you, too.

Sweet Dreams, Furry Friends: How to Support Better Pet Sleep

Just like us, pets need quality sleep to feel their best. Whether it’s your pup curling up after a long walk or your cat sprawling out in a sunny spot, a cozy, peaceful place to rest can make all the difference. Wondering how to help your four-legged friend catch better ZZZs? Here are a few simple ways to create a sleep-friendly space for your pet:

• Keep things calm before bedtime: A quiet wind-down routine helps your pet shift into sleep mode. That means no rowdy play right before bed.

• Choose a comfy sleep spot: A soft bed in a draft-free area gives your pet a safe, quiet place to relax.

• Stick to a routine: Regular feeding and bedtime schedules help pets feel secure and rested.

• Limit loud noises: Sudden sounds can jolt pets awake or cause anxiety, especially if they’re already snoozing.

• Offer a familiar scent: Blankets or toys that smell like you can help comfort your pet through the night.

Do dogs dream? Yes! And can dogs have bad dreams? They might—so creating a peaceful environment helps. And for the curious cat owners asking, do cats dream? Most experts believe they do. So let them sleep soundly—dreams and all.

Let Sleeping Pets Catch Some Zzzzs and Some Dreams

Watching your pet snooze is one of life’s quiet joys—especially when they wiggle, wag, or softly meow in their sleep. It’s adorable, right? But, it’s natural to wonder: do dogs dream? Do cats dream? While we can’t peek inside their minds, science suggests they probably do. Their dreams might not follow a clear storyline like ours, but chances are they’re reliving the best (or most exciting) parts of their day. And isn’t it lovely to think that your favorite companion is reliving those special times with you, their favorite human?

The next time your pup seems to be swimming or running in place while napping or your cat lets out that super cute sleepy little squeak, just smile and let them have their space. It’s all part of a healthy sleep cycle. And if you want to add a little fun to their waking hours, too, don’t forget to check out Crown and Paw—because what better way to celebrate your favorite snuggler than with a custom dog shirt featuring their adorable face?

In the end, good sleep means happy pets—and happy pets make for happier homes. So keep the routine cozy, the naps uninterrupted, and your heart open for those sleepy tail wags and whisker twitches.