Our mornings are predictable

While many cat lovers may assume I feed my cats first thing in the morning, I don’t. I focus on my mornings, and I believe cats understand the importance of a good morning routine. To get enough sleep, I don’t want the cats to wake me up in the morning for food. They need to respect my sleep schedule so that we can all go about our day together.

Cats thrive on routine

Our cats need a consistent routine, especially in the mornings. Predictability is key for their well-being.

Waking up to a furry alarm clock is a common experience for many cat owners. Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. This natural instinct can lead to disruptive behaviors in the early morning hours. These include loud meowing, pawing at their owners, or walking across them in bed.

It can be frustrating to have your sleep interrupted. Remember that your cat isn’t trying to be malicious. They’re simply pursuing their natural instincts and seeking attention, food, or playtime.

Understanding the reasons behind your cat’s early morning behavior is important. It can help you develop strategies to manage this behavior. These strategies can ensure a peaceful start to your day for both you and your feline companion.

My consistent routine

My cats have learned that their early morning attempts to wake me up for food are futile. I’ve established a consistent routine, and I make sure my rules are non-negotiable.

• I wake up around the same time, usually at dawn and later in the winter.
• I feed the herd about the same time.
• I reserve early mornings for quality time with the herd. Playtime, cuddles, pets, and brushing.

How I love to spend the mornings with the Herd

Spending quality morning time with my cats is definitely a wonderful way to strengthen my bond. It sets a positive tone for their day and mine.

My feline companions patiently wait in the living room, their anticipation palpable as they await their morning treats. I begin my day with a visit to the bathroom. Next, I quickly adjust the thermostat to ensure a comfortable temperature. I open the blinds. The soft morning light fills the room. I set about brewing a steaming mug of coffee. This kickstarts my day.

Once my morning routine is complete, it’s time to attend to my cats’ “dental hygiene” session. Armed with Greenies Catnip treats, which are designed to help reduce plaque and tartar buildup, and Purina DentaLife treats, which feature a unique texture that helps scrub teeth clean, I embark on the task of cleaning their teeth. No brushing their teeth like I said in an earlier post, “Checking and Cleaning Cat’s Teeth”. The cats eagerly consume the treats, their enjoyment evident as they savor the flavors and reap the dental benefits.

Our mornings in the summertime

I eagerly anticipate the arrival of summertime, as it brings with it the promise of a change in our morning routine. When the sun shines brightly and the air is warm, I’ll gather my feline companions and guide them outdoors, my trusty coffee mug in hand and my beloved Wolfie the Wobbly nestled snugly in my shoulder bag. The promise of treats will be an extra incentive, jingling enticingly in my pockets.

Once outside, I envision my cats luxuriating in the warmth of the sun, their bodies rolling playfully on the patio stones. Some may even choose to climb atop the outdoor couch, their postures a perfect blend of relaxation and anticipation as they await their morning rewards. The gentle breeze, the birdsong, and the contented purrs of my cats will create a symphony of summertime serenity, a perfect start to a bright new day.

The herd’s unique preferences

While most of my cats enjoy gathering for treats, each has unique preferences. For instance, Kenji, being diabetic, prefers individual attention. Tanna and O’Ryan like their treats placed on the ground, while Wolfie eats from my hand. The rest gently take treats from my fingers, except Hammond and Milo, who can be rough and sometimes bite. To avoid this, I often toss their treats, which they enjoy chasing.

Breakfast time

After an hour or two of our quality time together, I feed the cats breakfast. They are ready to eat a meal of mixed wet and dry food.

Once their breakfast is served, the cats engage in their post-meal rituals, which usually involve thorough grooming sessions. Following their ablutions, they are free to choose their own adventures for the day. Some cats prefer to remain indoors, basking in the warmth of the house or catio, while others venture outside in the fenced garden to explore the wonders of nature.

With the cats happily occupied, I can finally carve out some quality time for myself. I begin by preparing my own breakfast.  As I savor my meal, I take the opportunity to catch up on the latest news headlines online and/or indulge in a brief moment of leisure by playing a quick game through an app.

This provides a welcome mental break and allows me to fully engage in the activity without any interruptions or distractions from my feline companions.

The day will start well for me and the herd

While the specific activities might vary, maintaining a consistent and positive morning routine will help your cats learn that mornings are a safe, predictable, and enjoyable time.

I find that dedicating quality time to my cats in the mornings before I start my day is incredibly beneficial for both them and me. It not only strengthens our bond but also ensures that they get the attention and interaction they need, setting a positive tone for the rest of their day.

This routine helps alleviate any feelings of guilt or worry I might have about leaving them for work or other commitments, as I know they’ve already had their share of love and playtime.

Additionally, starting my day by engaging in this positive interaction with my cats boosts my mood and overall well-being, making me feel more centered and ready to tackle whatever the day may bring.🥰