Last Updated on May 17, 2024 by Dr. Wendy Wilkins, DVM, PhD
My Bengal cat has two settings: zooming around like crazy and sleeping. Not unusual behavior for cats; in fact, I bet you’ve noticed the same thing with your kitty!
But the greatest amount of her time is definitely spent on sleeping. Have you ever wondered why do cats sleep so much? Is it just because they’re lazy, or is there more to the story?
Why Do Cats Sleep So Much
If you’re a cat owner, you know the drill. Your furry friend is curled up in a cozy spot, snoozing away for hours on end. It’s like they’re constantly asleep, only waking up for brief moments to eat, play, or grace you with their presence. What is it that makes a cat sleep most of their day away?
Reasons cats sleep so much
Cats are natural-born nappers. Sleeping a lot is an evolutionary adaption to conserve energy for those bursts of activity, like chasing toys or pouncing on unsuspecting feet.
In the wild, cats spend a lot of time hunting, which requires short bouts of intense energy. To gear up for the hunt, they need to rest and recharge. Even though our domesticated kitties don’t need to stalk prey, that instinct to conserve energy is still deeply ingrained.
Factors that affect cat sleep patterns
But there’s more to it than just instinct. A cat’s age, health, and environment all play a role in their sleeping habits.
Kittens and older cats tend to snooze more than adult cats in their prime. And cats who are bored or lack stimulation may doze off more frequently out of sheer tedium. On the flip side, cats in active households with plenty of toys and playtime may have more regular sleep-wake cycles.
I’ve seen these individual differences firsthand with my own cats. My energetic young Bengal seems to always be on the go, while my older Sphynx cat spends most of her day curled up in a patch of sunlight (or any warm spot she can find!).
You might not realize it, but it is important to know your cat’s unique sleep patterns and habits. That way, you can spot any changes that might signal an underlying health issue.
How Much Sleep Is Normal for Cats
So, just how much sleep is normal for our feline friends? Brace yourself – it’s a lot. In fact, sometimes it seems like they sleep ALL the time! But on average, cats sleep between 15 to 20 hours a day. That’s right, you read that correctly. Your cat is basically a professional napper.
Average sleep time for cats: Cats typically spend about 2/3 of their day sleeping. The remaining time is split between grooming, playing, eating, and well… more napping.
But here’s the interesting part: cats don’t sleep deeply the entire time. Much of their sleep is what we call “catnapping” – light dozing where they can quickly spring into action if needed.
Indoor vs outdoor cats
The patterns of indoor versus outdoor cats can also vary quite a bit. Indoor cats tend to have more consistent sleep schedules, snoozing intermittently throughout the day and night. They have the luxury of a safe, predictable environment that allows for undisturbed rest.
Outdoor cats, on the other hand, may have more erratic sleep patterns influenced by weather, temperature, and perceived threats. They may spend more time in a lighter, vigilant sleep state.
Sleep differences between young and old cats
Age also plays a significant role in feline sleep habits. Kittens, for example, can sleep up to 20 hours a day. All that growth and development requires serious shut-eye. As cats mature into adulthood, they typically settle into that 15 to 20 hour range.
But once they reach their senior years, they may start to snooze even more. Older cats often have decreased mobility and energy levels, so they tend to spend more time catching Z’s.
The bottom line? While 15 to 20 hours is the average, every cat is unique. The best gauge for what’s normal is your own cat’s regular routine.
Signs Your Cat’s Sleeping Habits May Indicate a Health Issue
While it’s normal for cats to spend a good chunk of their day snoozing, there are times when a change in sleep habits could signal a health problem.
Changes in sleep pattern
If your normally active cat suddenly starts sleeping all day, or your champion napper is restless and can’t seem to settle down, it’s worth taking note. These changes could be caused by anything from stress and anxiety to pain or an underlying illness.
Excessive sleeping
While cats are known for their love of sleep, there is such a thing as too much of a good thing. If your cat is sleeping more than usual and also seems lethargic or uninterested in their normal activities, it’s time for a check-up.
Excessive sleeping can be a sign that your cat is not feeling its best. There are lot of things that cause cat to have less energy than normal, from hypothyroidism and diabetes to arthritis and dental problems and more.
Lack of energy or lethargy
On the flip side, if your cat is sleeping less than usual and seems restless or uncomfortable, that’s also cause for concern. It may signal that your cat has something wrong that just won’t let it get comfortable enough to sleep properly.
In addition to changes in sleep habits, there are other symptoms that should never be ignored. These include things like:
- Sudden weight loss
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Respiratory issues
- Urinary problems
- Skin irritation or hair loss
If you notice any of these symptoms along with changes in their sleeping habits, it’s best to err on the side of caution and schedule a vet visit right away. Your vet can perform a thorough exam, run any necessary tests, and develop a treatment plan to get your cat back on track.
Ways to Encourage Healthy Sleep Habits in Cats
As a cat parent, there are plenty of things you can do to promote healthy kitty sleep habits.
Providing a stimulating environment
One of the most important factors in maintaining a healthy sleep routine is providing your cat with a stimulating environment. This means offering plenty of toys, scratching posts, and interactive playtime to keep them mentally and physically engaged. Puzzle feeders and hiding treats around the house can also provide much-needed mental stimulation and curb boredom-induced napping.
In addition, a cat that is active and engaged while it is awake is more likely to sleep deeper during their sleep times. This can be a particularly important strategy if you are trying to keep your cat from being annoying at night – the time when YOU are trying to get some sleep yourself!
Establishing a routine
Cats thrive on routine, so establishing a consistent schedule for feeding, playtime, and grooming can go a long way in regulating their sleep cycles. Try to stick to a regular feeding schedule and set aside dedicated time each day for interactive play sessions. This will help keep your cat active and engaged, leading to more restful sleep.
Ensuring proper nutrition
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for maintaining your cat’s overall health and energy levels. Choose a high-quality cat food that meets your feline’s specific nutritional needs, and avoid overfeeding or offering too many treats. Proper nutrition can help prevent obesity and other health issues that can impact sleep quality.
Regular check-ups with the vet
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of regular check-ups with your veterinarian. Annual exams can help catch potential health problems early, before they start impacting your cat’s sleep or overall well-being. Your vet can also offer personalized advice on optimizing your cat’s diet, environment, and lifestyle to promote healthy sleep habits.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks – the fascinating truth behind why cats sleep so much. From conserving energy to staying alert, there’s a whole lot more to your cat’s naps than meets the eye.
But remember, while a lot of sleep is normal for cats, changes in sleeping habits can sometimes signal health issues. So if you notice anything unusual, don’t hesitate to check in with your vet.
At the end of the day, the best thing you can do is provide a comfy, stimulating environment that supports your cat’s natural sleep patterns. Plenty of cozy nooks, regular playtime, and a healthy diet will help keep your cat happy, healthy, and well-rested.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I think I hear my cat calling me for a cuddle session. Time to join her for a quick cat nap!
[Image credits: All images are used under license or with permission]
Sources:
https://www.britannica.com/story/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much
Utility of a novel activity monitor assessing physical activities and sleep quality in cats
