Wireless question

Because we have cats that like to lay on laptops I've gotten into the habit of closing the lid when I walk away. I've noticed that the wireless connection won't activate when I open the lid unless I run the cursor over the signal indicator. Is this a typical thing for macs? Or is there a setting I need to change?

Today is the first full day I have been using my new Mac. I've had it for almost a month. I made myself put the PC out of reach so I had no choice but to figure it all out. So far so good except the wireless thing. No biggie if it's supposed to be that way. I'll get used to it.

Thx!

Mine reactivates on it's own but takes a few seconds after opening.

Thanks Mike. Guess I'm just not patient enough.

Mine takes about 10 seconds before it's up and running. It usually takes that long just to handshake with the router, and may take even longer depending on what kind of security you use.

Sometimes mine reconnects straight away other times not at all.
I just switch off the Airport then switch it back on and voila.