Caring for an elderly pet, whether a dog, cat, or other companion animal, brings a gentle shift in focus, from routine and activity to comfort, rest, and presence. Sleep becomes far more than rest; it becomes a reflection of how safe, supported, and comfortable your pet feels. As Lauren Davies, veterinary surgeon and sleep expert from VetRelieve, explains, even healthy pets already sleep far more than we do but in later life, this can increase significantly, sometimes reaching up to 20 hours a day in advanced stages. While this can feel surprising, it is often a natural part of ageing and energy conservation, particularly when the body is working harder to cope with illness, pain, or frailty.
From a hospice perspective, these quieter periods of rest are incredibly meaningful. When a pet is able to settle comfortably, you often see a visible shift their breathing slows, their body softens, and there is a sense of calm that goes beyond the physical. Sleep is not always deep or continuous; often it includes gentle resting states that are just as important for wellbeing. Supporting this rest means paying attention not only to how much your pet sleeps, but where and when they feel able to do so.
Comfort plays a central role in this. A supportive, well-cushioned resting space becomes more than just a bed it becomes a place of safety. Many pets will return to the same spot repeatedly, drawn by familiarity, scent, and the reassurance of being close to you. As Lauren highlights, pets need access to a space where they feel secure enough to reach deeper, restorative sleep stages and that sense of safety is just as important as the physical support itself. For some pets, this may be a warm corner, a favourite sofa, or a specialised orthopaedic bed placed near family life. For cats especially, ease of access and being able to safely get in and out of their resting place can make a significant difference.
As pets age, sleep patterns often shift. You may notice more daytime sleeping and increased restlessness at night, sometimes linked to cognitive changes or discomfort. This can be challenging, not only for pets but also for caregivers, who may find their own sleep disrupted. A calm environment considering temperature, lighting, sound, and ease of movement can make a profound difference, helping pets settle more peacefully whenever they need to rest.
🎥 Conversation: Sleep & Comfort with Lauren Davies
A conversation with veterinary surgeon and sleep expert Lauren Davies from VetRelieve, discussing how sleep, environment, and comfort shape the wellbeing of elderly and hospice pets.
🌙 Why Sleep Matters at the End of Life
In the final stage of life, supporting sleep becomes an act of compassion. A comfortable, familiar resting space helps relieve pressure, reduce pain, and allow the body to relax more fully. When discomfort is minimised, pets are not only more settled during rest, but often calmer and more present when awake. These small, quiet moments gentle eye contact, a relaxed breath, simply being close become deeply meaningful.
A familiar bed or resting space also plays a powerful role in a pet’s final moments. Surrounded by their scent, supported physically, and close to you, they are more likely to feel calm and secure. Whether passing naturally or with veterinary support at home, this environment helps create a peaceful, dignified experience one rooted in connection, comfort, and love.
❤️ Supporting Your Pet’s Journey
Caring for a pet in hospice is one of the most loving roles you can take on. By focusing on sleep, comfort, and emotional wellbeing, you are supporting not only how your pet lives, but how they feel in each moment. Observing their rest, adjusting their environment, and responding to their changing needs allows you to provide deeply compassionate care.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Veterinary guidance, supportive tools, and trusted resources can help bring clarity during an emotional time. But at its heart, hospice care is about presence creating a space where your pet feels safe, supported, and deeply loved, right to the very end.
