Daylight Saving Time and Pets’ Sleep

Time just sprung forward, it’s not just us who need to adjust—our furry companions can struggle when the clock goes ahead for an hour, too. Dr. Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at insurance provider Waggel, shares a list of signs pet owners need to watch out for and what they can do to maintain healthy sleep patterns during the time change…

Restless nights
A pet’s internal body clock doesn’t automatically adapt when clocks change. Furry friends may wake up earlier or later than usual during the first week of Daylight Saving Time (DST). Be on the lookout for restlessness or increased night-time activity. Create a consistent wake-up routine by establishing “quiet time” before leaving the bed so your pet can take cues from you and learn an “acceptable” wake time.

Changes in appetite
Pets are creatures of habit and thrive on routine. Time changes may also affect feeding schedules, which can be confusing for them. If your pet is used to eating at a specific time, slowly adjust feeding time by 10 to 15 minutes a day leading up to DST. Achieving consistency can help recalibrate their internal clock.

Increased anxiety
Is your furry companion pacing more than usual or being extra clingy? A change in routine may cause anxiety in pets. This can be addressed by creating a wind-down routine at night to help signal that bedtime is approaching. You can play gently or even brush their hair to help them relax and calm down.

Change in energy levels
Watch out for lethargy or hyperactivity in your pets. An imbalance in energy may happen because of a shift in schedule. Stick to consistent daily exercise times to help regulate their circadian rhythm.

Confusion about the bathroom schedule
Is your pet having accidents in the house, or is it asking to be let out for toilet needs during unusual times? These are expected during the adjustment period. Be patient and maintain a regular toilet schedule so they can readjust quickly.

Dr. Warner concludes, “The Daylight Saving Time adjustment can be confusing for our pets who thrive on routine and cannot understand why their schedules have changed. This confusion can lead to changes in behaviour and sleep disturbances.

“To help your furry companions adjust smoothly, maintain consistent feeding and exercising schedules, gradually shifting them by 15-minute increments in the week leading up to the change. Environmental cues also play a role in helping pets adapt. Give them plenty of natural light exposure during the day and create a calming environment at night to support good sleep.

“Be patient and supportive, as most pets adjust within a week or two. If your pet shows persistent signs of distress and changes in behaviour, immediately consult your veterinarian to rule out health concerns and get personalised advice.”