Radek Tesár 10. 5. 2025 clock 3 minutes video
If you are a dog or cat owners, you have certainly noticed that your four -legged friend is spinning in circles before lying down. We know it may look like a cute ritual, but what is behind this behavior? Why are the animals move in a circle before sleep?
Our four -legged friends are not only loyal companions for us, but also support in everyday life. We think we know almost everything about them, but sometimes they can be pleasantly or unpleasantly surprised. Surely you have noticed that your pets, whether cats or dogs, often spin in circles before they finally lie down into their bed. This innocent ritual may have entertained you several times, but do you know why they are doing it? Is it an instinct or just trying to find the most comfortable sleep position?
YouTube video about why the dog spins before you lie down on the Animalwised channel:
Source: YouTube
Why do dogs and cats spin in circles before lying down
Cats and dogs tend to spin in a circle before bedtime in a natural way. This behavior is associated with preparation for comfortable and safe sleep. For their wild ancestors, it was a way to create a better place to rest. By spinning in a circle, the animals tried to balance the terrain, remove unevenness or high grass, which provided them with protection and comfort. This instinct persisted with domestic pets, although today it is mostly a softer surface such as pillows or in some cases even beds.
The reason why they keep this custom today is simple. Spinning in a circle creates an ideal place for perfect rest. So when your cat or dog revolves around you, it’s their way to make a more comfortable and safer space. Although today instead of natural grass usually serve pillows or your legs, this instinct remains strongly rooted.
Instinctive behavior that lasts for centuries
Although we domesticated cats and dogs and brought them to our homes, their wild instincts remain strongly present. Although today our pets surround soft carpets and comfortable beds, their natural behavior, such as spinning before sleep, cannot be completely eradicated. These instincts are deeply rooted in their DNA and serve not only to create a more comfortable place for sleep, but also to ensure safety and protection, which have always been key factors for survival in the wild. It is fascinating how, despite the long history of coexistence, these habits are still manifested, which had their roots in completely different conditions.
In this way, our cats and dogs return to natural instincts, which accompanied them at a time when they still lived in the wild. Even today, when they have everything they need to feel safe and comfortable, they still retain some of their ancient customs. So next time, when you see them spinning before sleep, remember that it is their ancient ritual that helps to ensure their comfort and safety, even if it means a little less space on your bed!
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