House cats are fascinating creatures, blending agility, intelligence, and a playful streak that captivates cat lovers everywhere. But hey, let’s be real, if there’s one thing they totally excel at, it’s sleeping! Cats can clock in impressive hours of sleep a day, leaving many of us scratching our heads and wondering: why do house cats sleep so much?
Well, it all comes down to their biology and instincts. Cats are natural-born hunters, hardwired to conserve energy for the “big hunt” even if their prey these days is a jingling toy or a rogue sock. Plus, their sleep isn’t just about rest. It’s super important for their health and well-being. During those deeper Rapid Eye Movement (REM) cycles, their brains are processing, recharging, and staying sharp for their next burst of activity.
So, is all this sleeping normal, or should you be keeping an eye out for any changes? Let’s explore why cats nap so much, what’s typical, and what their sleep habits can tell you about their well-being. Whether your cat loves stretching out in the sun or curling up in tiny spaces, their sleep holds some fascinating secrets. Let’s find out more!
Common Reasons Why Cats Sleep So Much
Cats have evolved their sleeping habits over centuries and are fine-tuned to their predatory survival requirements. But why do house cats sleep so much when they don’t actually have to do all that hunting stuff their ancestors used to do?
While conserving energy for hunting may have been the catalyst for cat sleeping habits, animal behaviours often serve multiple functions in a cat’s life. Here’s why your cat might be catching those Z’s:
- They’re Growing – Kittens sleep most of the day as it is vital for the process of growth and brain development.
- They’re sick – Like growth, sleep plays a vital role in helping the body and mind recover from disease or injury. If your cat is unwell, you should expect they may have a greater need for sleep.
- They’re physically active – Cats are naturally active hunters, often engaging in playful behaviors that mimic their instincts. Whether they’re pouncing on the tail of your coat or chasing after a toy, these activities require significant energy and focus. To restore their energy for these bursts of activity, cats need ample sleep throughout the day.
- They’re just resting – Closed eyes don’t always mean deep sleep. Sometimes, cats just doze or lightly snooze, and this can simply be for enjoyment.
- They’re bored – If your cat is understimulated or lacks companionship and interaction, they may be bored, and will use sleep as a means of filling in those hours. If sleep is accompanied by problematic behaviours such as destruction, overgrooming and excessive vocalisation, you may need to provide more stimulation for your cat.
- They’re stressed or anxious – If your cat’s environment has undergone some big changes, like moving house, or having a new person move in, this can cause stress and anxiety for these routine loving creatures. Excess sleep can be a way of regulating their mood and coping with the changes. If the stress or anxiety persist well past the change, however, it may indicate a deeper problem like depression and this should be investigated.
- They’re cold – Cats have evolved from hot desert environments, and so they are adapted for heat rather than cold. Subsequently, you may find your cat snoozing more during those winter months to maintain their naturally high body temperatures.
- They’re hot – Even hot-blooded creatures can get sleepy in the heat! Naturally, on hot days, your cat might find that snoozing helps prevent overheating, which can lead to dehydration.
- They’re active while you are sleeping – It’s the middle of the day, and your cat has been curled up on the sofa since you got up and had your morning coffee. But remember, your cat is very likely on a different sleep clock to you, and while you were snoozing the night away, your cat was wide awake and having adventures, and now they are having a well-deserved slumber.
- They’re old – Old cats, like old people, don’t always have the same up-and-go as their younger selves. As your cat ages, it’s natural that they will need to spend more time sleeping in order to cope with the stress of the day’s physical demands on their weakening bodies.
How Much Sleep Do Cats Need?
According to the vets at Woof Pur Nay Veterinary Hospital, adult cats typically need 16-20 hours of sleep a day, with kittens requiring up to 22 hours and senior cats sleeping even more. This sleep pattern is rooted in their evolutionary needs as predators, where long periods of rest were essential for conserving energy between hunts. Although domestic cats no longer need to hunt for food, their bodies still follow these natural rhythms, ensuring they stay well-rested and ready for bursts of activity.
Even though house cats now get their meals from a food bowl rather than hunting, their instinct to sleep and recharge remains strong due to thousands of years of evolution. Sleep also plays a vital role in conserving energy for short, intense bursts of activity, whether it’s chasing a toy or pouncing on an unsuspecting object. Their daily routine of sleep, play, and brief periods of activity continues to be an essential part of their well-being, ensuring they stay sharp and content, even in a domesticated environment.
How Much Sleep Do Kittens Need?
Just like human babies, kittens must undergo a period of intense growth when they are born, and sleep is essential to this process. As kittens progress from newborns to adult cats, their sleeping patterns and requirements undergo some changes. According to Vets for Pets, newborn kittens sleep for around 22 hours a day, gradually reducing to 18 hours by the time they are three months old, which is similar to the sleep needs of adult cats.
| Kitten sleeping habits by age | ||
| Newborn | 22 – 24 hours | Waking only briefly to eat. |
| 2 weeks – 3 months | 22 hours | Short bursts of energy between meals. |
| 3 months – 6 months | 18-20 hours | Often really energetic at night time |
| 6 months – adult | 15 – 20 hours | Most active during sunrise and sunset. |
When Should I Be Concerned About a Cat’s Sleeping Habits?
It’s normal for cats to spend a significant portion of their day sleeping, but noticeable changes in their sleep patterns can be a sign of underlying health issues. If your cat begins sleeping much more than usual or seems overly lethargic, it could indicate conditions such as hyperthyroidism, diabetes, or kidney disease. Pain, anxiety, or even depression can also cause excess sleep in your feline. If your cat shows signs of lethargy alongside a shift in sleep habits, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to rule out any medical concerns.
Every cat develops its own unique routine, and changes in sleep can occur as it ages or adjusts to new environments. However, any sudden or significant shift from their typical behavior should be closely monitored. Observing other factors like appetite, playfulness, and litter box habits can help identify if there’s a larger issue at play. By staying attentive to these changes, you can ensure your cat’s health and address any potential concerns with the help of your vet.
How to Create the Ideal Sleep Environment for Your Cat
Sleeping is so natural and so instinctual for cats that sleeping long hours is rarely indicative of an underlying issue. In fact, it’s probably more likely that not having enough sleep will have a more detrimental effect on your furry friend. So, if you want to do the best for your sleepy, feline friend, then creating a great sleeping environment is an important part of keeping your cat energetic, healthy, happy, and above all, anxiety and stress-free. So, what can we do to help our cats get the best out of their sleep?
- The Right Cat Bed – there are many options available, and the one you choose is the one your cat prefers the most. If you live in a cold environment, and your cat will be home alone when the house isn’t being heated, a heated bed may be really useful. If your cat is the nervous type, they may appreciate a covered soft bed where they can feel safe.
- Think about the location – usually a cat will prefer a quiet place where they feel safe. This may be a bed placed in a high position, such as on top of a wardrobe, or it may be in their favourite person’s room. You want to make sure the bed is also placed in a warm place free of cold draughts, or a spot that isn’t so sunny that your cat may be sunburned or overheat.
- Let Lying Cats sleep – although it’s tempting to entice them in a bit of play or give them a cuddle, a kitten should not be disturbed when sleeping as it may interfere with their healthy growth and cause stress. Adult cats usually tolerate a bit more disturbance to their sleep and will walk away and find another place if they feel the need to go back to sleep. It is still important, however, to respect an adult cat’s sleep, especially when they are in the deep sleeping part of their cycle.
- Setup Routines – having playtime routines and feeding routines can be beneficial for both cats and owners, as cats will be able to fit in their sleep around these times. Routines mean that cats know when it’s time to relax and catch some zees, and when it’s time to have a bit stretch and get some quality play time in with their favourite humans.
Tips to Keep Your Cat Active and Engaged
Cats need both mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. So, it’s important to keep them active during their awake hours. Simple activities like playing with toys, scratching posts, or climbing ramps can do wonders. These not only allow your cat to follow their natural instincts but also provide a healthy outlet for their energy. Engaging in interactive playtime with your cat is equally important. Whether it’s using a laser pointer or a wand toy, these moments not only keep your cat entertained but also help deepen the bond between you and your feline friend.
For an extra level of enrichment, consider safe outdoor time. Cats love fresh air, sunlight, and exploring nature’s sights and sounds. However, free roaming can be risky due to cars, fights, or illnesses. A secure netted outdoor enclosure offers a safe alternative, letting your cat enjoy outdoor exploration without any of the dangers. Combining indoor play with safe outdoor activities is the perfect way to keep your cat happy and thriving.
Conclusion: Balancing Sleep and Activity for a Healthy Cat
Cats may sleep for most of the day, but maintaining a balance between rest and activity is essential for their overall well-being. While sleep helps them recharge, their natural instincts drive them to explore, play, and engage with their surroundings. Ensuring they have a safe and stimulating environment, along with regular interaction and exercise, supports both their physical and mental health. By understanding their sleep patterns and encouraging active play during their awake hours, you can help your cat lead a more fulfilling and enriched life.
Providing a secure outdoor space is one of the best ways to keep your cat engaged while ensuring their safety. A cat enclosure allows them to experience fresh air, sunshine, and the excitement of the outdoors without the risks of roaming freely. At Kittysafe, our high-quality cat netting solutions are built to endure Perth’s tough climate and come with a 12-month workmanship warranty and a five-year UV guarantee. Give your cat the perfect balance of rest and adventure by contacting Kittysafe today.
FAQs
Is it ok if my cat sleeps all day?
Yes! Cat’s are often active during the night and early evening so day sleeping is perfectly normal. If you notice changes in your cat’s normal sleeping routine, however, you might want to check with your vet.
How Can I Tell If My Cat Is Sleeping Too Much?
Firstly you need to understand what is normal for your cat before determining if they are sleeping too much. Although sleeping long hours is normal for a cat, sleeping too much can indicate poor health and should be investigated by a vet, especially if combined with lethargy or decreased activity.
Why Does My Cat Sleep in Strange Places?
What’s strange for you may be perfect for your cat! Cat’s will sleep where they feel safe, warm and won’t be disturbed. Being inside something, or up high, or away from draughts will be your cat’s preferred sleep locations.
How many hours a day do indoor cats sleep?
Adult cat’s will sleep anywhere from 16 – 20 hours a day, kittens will sleep much longer than this, and senior cats may sleep closer to the 20 hour a day mark.
Do domesticated cats sleep more than Wild Cats?
As sleeping requirements are set biologically, both wild cats and domestic cats will sleep the same amount of time. Wild cats will find places to sleep where they feel safe and won’t be disturbed.
Are cats ever fully asleep?
Yes, but most of the time they are in light sleep. It’s estimated that 75% of their sleep time is light sleep, and this is so that they are ready to spring into action if there is any danger around.
Is my cat bored sleeping all day?
No, cat’s love and need to sleep. To prevent cat boredom, engage them in some playful interaction and encourage physical activity in those moments when they are awake and ready for action.
Why Does My Cat Sleep During the Day and Stay Awake at Night?
Cats are crepuscular, which means they are most active at sunrise and sunset – the perfect times for hunting prey! Cat’s sleep much of the day and night, but they can wake up for short periods of time, and during early adolescence they may even be quite active in those moments.
