Just like us, cats need plenty of sleep to stay healthy. You might notice that your furry friend seems to snooze a lot. Why do cats sleep so often? What things influence how much they sleep? Let’s dive into the world of cat naps to find out!
How much do cats sleep in a day?
Cats typically snooze for about 12 to 16 hours every day. Compared to humans who usually need around seven hours of sleep each night, this might seem like a lot of downtime. But considering what cats do during their awake time, it makes sense.
Hunting and exploring take a lot of energy. As predators, cats need to conserve their energy so they can stay sharp and ready.
How much a cat sleeps can change depending on their age. Kittens, who are still growing and learning, might need up to 20 hours of sleep each day. Adult cats usually need around 15 hours or less. Senior cats, who are at least 10 years old, might spend even more time sleeping than younger cats. This is because they tend to be less active due to health problems or difficulty moving around.
How much a cat sleeps can vary from one furry friend to another. Factors like breed, diet, lifestyle, and age all play a role. For instance, if a cat isn’t mentally stimulated enough, they might feel sluggish and nap more often to pass the time.
Here are a few common reasons why your cat might be catching extra Z’s
Catnaps
Cats are pros at taking short naps instead of long snoozes. These quick breaks, lasting about 15 to 30 minutes, let them recharge without slipping into deep sleep. This way, they can still be alert to any potential dangers around them.
Saving energy
Cats burn a lot of energy when they’re hunting, playing, or just exploring their surroundings. So, it’s natural for them to recharge by sleeping more. After a nap, your cat will be all set for whatever adventure comes next, whether it’s climbing up a cat tower or pouncing on a toy.
Their schedule
Cats are most active during the early morning and evening, a trait known as being crepuscular. If your cat seems to snooze all day, it might be because they’re up and about while you’re fast asleep at night. To help your feline friend stay entertained during your sleeping hours, make sure they have toys to play with or a window to gaze out of.
Feeling bored
Cats might nap more when they’re feeling bored. Even though sleeping might seem harmless, boredom can lead to some not-so-great behaviors, like scratching up furniture, meowing nonstop, or grooming too much.
To keep your cat entertained and happy, it’s important to give them things to do during the day. This can include stuff like cat trees, scratching posts, or shelves for them to climb on. Puzzle feeders are great too, as they make mealtime more fun and engaging. And don’t forget about playtime with you and the family, it’s a great way to bond and keep your cat active. If you’re not around much, getting another cat as a buddy can also help, just be sure to introduce them properly.
Feeling stressed
Cats, like people, can get stressed out. And just like us, they might change their sleeping habits when they’re feeling anxious. If you notice your cat sleeping a lot more than usual, it could be because they’re feeling overwhelmed or worried about something happening around them. Stressors for cats can vary, from new people in the house to changes in their feeding schedule.
Not feeling well
When cats are sick, they might snooze more than usual. Some illnesses and diseases that can make your furry friend sleepier than normal include:
Feeling hurt
Cats are pretty active creatures, often leaping from high spots or zooming around like little rockets. But all that jumping and running can sometimes lead to injuries like muscle strains or torn ligaments. When this happens, your cat might need to rest up and sleep more to heal. If they’ve got a cut or an infection, their body’s busy fighting it off, which can also make them feel extra sleepy.
As cats get older, they can develop arthritis and achy joints, just like people do. When this happens, they might seem less energetic and spend more time sleeping. If you notice your cat limping or seeming stiff, it’s a good idea to take them to the vet. A vet can figure out what’s wrong and make a plan to help ease any pain and make it easier for your cat to move around and nap comfortably.
Whenever you notice your cat seems hurt or in pain, it’s important to get them to the vet as soon as you can. The vet can give them a checkup and figure out the best way to help them feel better, whether that’s with medication or some gentle therapy.
Is my cat napping too often?
If you notice your cat snoozing more than usual or acting differently when it comes to their sleep, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet. They can give you advice on what to do next. Sometimes, they might recommend changing your cat’s diet, getting them moving more, or even trying out some new toys or games. And sometimes, just a little extra playtime can make all the difference!
A few days ago we wrote an article about friendly cat breeds that loves cuddles, so you can read it here.