Wondering why your cat sleeps so many hours a day or concerned about your cat's sleeping habits? Understanding cat behaviour and sleep patterns can help you ensure your feline friend is happy and healthy. So, how many hours a day do cats sleep?
Domestic cats sleep for approximately 12-18 hours a day. This extensive sleep helps them maintain their energy levels for play and exploration. Cats will often find strange sleeping places, whether that means a spot next to the radiator or on a pile of fresh laundry. Their sleeping behaviour is quite different from ours, as they tend to sleep intermittently throughout the day.
Cats sleep so much to keep their energy levels up. When they’re awake, they need to be alert and ready for anything, a behaviour rooted in their hunting instincts. Although domestic cats may not hunt for food, this natural instinct still drives their need for extensive rest. A tired cat with no energy cannot hunt or protect itself, which is why sleep is so vital.
While it's normal for cats to sleep a lot, noticing a significant increase in their sleep duration or changes in their sleeping spots might be a sign to check with your vet. Cats can hide illnesses well, and a change in sleep patterns might be one of the few observable symptoms. Kittens and senior cats tend to sleep more than adult cats. Kittens use a lot of energy growing, while older cats tire more quickly and need more rest after physical activity.
Cats often twitch in their sleep. You might see their ears move or their tails twitch as they remain alert to their surroundings, watching for any potential danger. When a cat is in a deep sleep, you might notice their paws or mouth twitching, which likely indicates they are dreaming.
Cats prefer warm and comfortable sleeping spots. There are many cat beds available, such as igloo beds, radiator hammocks, or simple cardboard boxes with a soft blanket. The Hide & Sleep® bed provides an ideal napping spot, offering the option to be inside or on top of a cozy space. Cats often rotate their preferred sleeping areas, a behaviour inherited from the African wildcat, to keep parasite levels low and ensure safety.
It's important not to disturb cats when they are sleeping. Even though they might fall asleep on your lap, it’s best not to wake them up. Trying to keep them awake during the day won’t deter their natural hunting instincts at night and will only cause them stress. For tips on how to deter your cat from hunting, check out our top tips.
Cats need a lot of sleep to stay healthy and energetic. By understanding their natural instincts and providing them with warm, safe, and comfortable sleeping spots, you can help ensure your cat’s well-being. If you notice any unusual changes in your cat's sleeping habits, a consultation with a veterinarian is always a good idea. Remember, a well-rested cat is a happy and healthy cat.
How Many Hours a Day Do Cats Sleep?
Domestic cats sleep for approximately 12-18 hours a day. This extensive sleep helps them maintain their energy levels for play and exploration. Cats will often find strange sleeping places, whether that means a spot next to the radiator or on a pile of fresh laundry. Their sleeping behaviour is quite different from ours, as they tend to sleep intermittently throughout the day.
Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?
Cats sleep so much to keep their energy levels up. When they’re awake, they need to be alert and ready for anything, a behaviour rooted in their hunting instincts. Although domestic cats may not hunt for food, this natural instinct still drives their need for extensive rest. A tired cat with no energy cannot hunt or protect itself, which is why sleep is so vital.
Cat Sleeping Too Much?
While it's normal for cats to sleep a lot, noticing a significant increase in their sleep duration or changes in their sleeping spots might be a sign to check with your vet. Cats can hide illnesses well, and a change in sleep patterns might be one of the few observable symptoms. Kittens and senior cats tend to sleep more than adult cats. Kittens use a lot of energy growing, while older cats tire more quickly and need more rest after physical activity.
Twitching in Sleep: Are Cats Dreaming?
Cats often twitch in their sleep. You might see their ears move or their tails twitch as they remain alert to their surroundings, watching for any potential danger. When a cat is in a deep sleep, you might notice their paws or mouth twitching, which likely indicates they are dreaming.
The Ideal Napping Spot for Cats
Cats prefer warm and comfortable sleeping spots. There are many cat beds available, such as igloo beds, radiator hammocks, or simple cardboard boxes with a soft blanket. The Hide & Sleep® bed provides an ideal napping spot, offering the option to be inside or on top of a cozy space. Cats often rotate their preferred sleeping areas, a behaviour inherited from the African wildcat, to keep parasite levels low and ensure safety.
Let Sleeping Cats Lie
It's important not to disturb cats when they are sleeping. Even though they might fall asleep on your lap, it’s best not to wake them up. Trying to keep them awake during the day won’t deter their natural hunting instincts at night and will only cause them stress. For tips on how to deter your cat from hunting, check out our top tips.
Cats need a lot of sleep to stay healthy and energetic. By understanding their natural instincts and providing them with warm, safe, and comfortable sleeping spots, you can help ensure your cat’s well-being. If you notice any unusual changes in your cat's sleeping habits, a consultation with a veterinarian is always a good idea. Remember, a well-rested cat is a happy and healthy cat.