Do Pets Dream? What Science Says About Their Sleep Habits

To understand whether pets dream, it is important to first explore their sleep patterns. Sleep occurs in multiple stages, including non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. NREM sleep is the first phase, during which the body is at rest, but the brain is still somewhat active. This is followed by REM sleep, which is characterized by rapid eye movement, increased brain activity, and sometimes physical movements such as twitching or vocalizing. In humans, REM sleep is the stage where vivid dreams occur. Studies have shown that many animals, particularly mammals, experience these same sleep cycles. Dogs and cats, for example, go through both NREM and REM sleep, much like humans. Research indicates that during REM sleep, the brain activity of dogs and cats closely resembles that of a dreaming human. This similarity strongly suggests that pets also have the ability to dream.
One of the most influential studies on animal dreaming comes from research conducted at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). In the 2000s, neuroscientists studying the brains of rats discovered that the rodents exhibited the same brain activity while sleeping as they did when they were awake and performing tasks. Specifically, researchers trained rats to navigate a maze, monitoring their brain patterns as they did so. Later, while the rats were asleep, scientists recorded nearly identical brain activity, suggesting that the rats were replaying their experiences in their dreams. If rats—relatively simple mammals—can dream, it is highly likely that more cognitively complex animals, such as dogs and cats, experience dreams as well. Additional studies on dogs and their brain activity further support this idea. Dr. Stanley Coren, a professor of psychology and an expert in canine behavior, has pointed out that dogs display physiological signs of dreaming, such as leg movements that resemble running and occasional vocalizations, just like humans do when dreaming.


While we cannot ask animals what they dream about, scientific evidence and behavioral observations provide some clues. Based on what we know about REM sleep and memory processing, it is likely that pets dream about their daily experiences. For example, a dog may dream about chasing a ball, playing with its owner, or encountering another animal. Similarly, a cat may dream about stalking prey, climbing a tree, or exploring a new environment. Anecdotal evidence from pet owners also supports this idea. Many dog owners have witnessed their pets wagging their tails, moving their legs as if running, or even softly barking in their sleep. Cat owners have observed their felines twitching their whiskers, flicking their tails, or making small meowing sounds while sleeping. These behaviors strongly suggest that pets are reliving moments from their waking lives in their dreams.
Not all pets experience dreams in the same way. Studies suggest that the frequency and intensity of dreams vary based on factors such as age, breed, and individual personality.
Research indicates that younger animals tend to dream more frequently than older ones. Puppies and kittens, for example, spend more time in REM sleep compared to adult dogs and cats. This is likely because young animals are constantly learning and processing new information, requiring more dream activity to consolidate memories. In contrast, older pets spend less time in REM sleep and may dream less often.
Among dogs, studies have suggested that certain breeds may dream more vividly than others. Smaller dog breeds tend to have shorter but more frequent dreams, while larger breeds may experience fewer but longer dream episodes. This variation is believed to be linked to differences in brain structure and sleep cycles among breeds.
Just as some humans remember their dreams more vividly than others, individual pets may have different dreaming experiences. Highly active and intelligent pets, such as working dogs or curious cats, may have more dynamic dreams due to their high levels of daily stimulation.


If pets can dream, does that mean they can also have nightmares? Many pet owners believe they have witnessed their pets experiencing bad dreams. Some dogs may whimper, growl, or suddenly wake up startled, while some cats may twitch aggressively or exhibit signs of distress while sleeping. There is evidence to suggest that pets can indeed have nightmares, especially if they have had traumatic experiences. Rescue animals, for example, may relive past traumatic events in their dreams. A dog that has experienced abuse or neglect may have nightmares about those situations. Similarly, a cat that has encountered danger—such as a past attack from another animal—might exhibit signs of distress in its sleep. While it is difficult to confirm exactly what a pet is dreaming about, many veterinarians and animal behaviorists recommend comforting pets that appear to be having nightmares. Speaking to them in a soothing voice or gently petting them can help reassure them. However, it is generally advised not to wake a pet suddenly from a nightmare, as they may be disoriented and react defensively.

Dreaming plays a crucial role in an animal’s overall well-being. Just as in humans, dreams help pets process memories, reinforce learning, and relieve stress. Scientists believe that REM sleep, where dreaming occurs, is vital for cognitive development and emotional regulation in animals. For instance, dogs that engage in frequent training or learning activities may consolidate their experiences through dreams, helping them retain commands and behaviors. This explains why a dog that has just learned a new trick may appear to "practice" it in its sleep by moving its paws or twitching. Moreover, dreaming can contribute to emotional health. Pets that experience happy dreams may wake up feeling more relaxed and secure. On the other hand, pets that frequently experience nightmares may show signs of stress or anxiety in their waking life, further emphasizing the connection between sleep and emotional well-being.

Scientific research strongly suggests that pets, especially mammals like dogs and cats, do dream. Their sleep cycles closely resemble those of humans, with REM sleep playing a significant role in memory processing and emotional regulation. Behavioral observations, studies on brain activity, and anecdotal evidence all indicate that pets likely dream about their daily experiences—whether it's chasing a ball, exploring a new environment, or interacting with their owners. While the exact content of their dreams remains a mystery, understanding that pets do dream helps deepen our appreciation for their complex inner lives. By ensuring they have a comfortable and stress-free sleep environment, pet owners can support their pets’ health, happiness, and overall well-being. So, the next time you see your pet twitching or making noises in their sleep, there is a good chance they are off on an adventure in their dream world.