Why do pets circle around before lying down?

We fluff up our pillows and then settle in for the night, but our pets often have a ritual of turning in circles, digging or yanking to get things just right before dozing off to sleep. This bedtime habit may actually be a behavior that’s inherited from our pets’ ancestors! 

 

On guard!
Ancient ancestors of our pets were constantly on guard for predators. They positioned themselves in order to keep a close watch on their environment, likely circling according to wind patterns that would allow them to pick up the scent of intruders. 

Family members are protective of each other. By turning around they can survey the surrounding area for family or pack members that are slow to gather and take one last look for predators before settling down for the night.

Temperature control
Unlike our pets today who live in the comfort of our climate-controlled homes, their ancestors didn't have this luxury. In colder climates, wild dogs and cats circled to wind themselves into tight balls to conserve body heat. Wild dogs would also circle to reposition snowbanks to use as a wind block. In addition, other pack members gathered together in a tight circle to share body heat. 

In warmer climates, wild dogs and cats would scratch at the ground to clear away soil and grass that held the heat from the day. Removing the topsoil exposed cooler soil underneath, giving some relief from the heat. 

Comfort and to ward off unwanted guests
Preparing a comfortable “nest” at night meant patting down tall grass, moving prickly underbrush and rooting out rocks, sticks and even unwanted guests such as snakes or poisonous insects. 

It can be fun to watch our pets arrange and rearrange their bed at night, but if your pet has difficulty settling down or getting comfortable, consult your veterinarian to rule out arthritis or a back or spinal cord issue. 

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