If you have a cat you may notice they like to sleep a lot. Cats tend to eat, play a little bit and then go off to sleep again for hours. It may cause concern if they sleep for 12-16 hours a day.
However, I have cats and some of them do sleep a lot. Generally this is completely normal but there can be a few reasons why they are sleeping a lot.
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Why do cats sleep so much?
Cats are designed to sleep a lot. In the wild they would have short bursts of hunting and then rest to conserve energy. Even indoor cats will have this natural instinct. Their bodies are designed to be very active for short periods but then rest.
Most cats will sleep for 12-16 hours a day. Some will sleep for longer, especially if they are elderly or lack stimulation. This isn’t laziness as it is just how they are.
Generally, kittens and senior cats will sleep the most. Kittens need to sleep due to them growing. Senior cats will tend to slow down and due to their joints or lack of energy they will rest more. However adult cats who are in their prime will often sleep slightly less.
I have had cats that seemed to always sleep, however as long as they were active and normally behaved when they were awake it has never been an issue. Usually you will notice an issue if they begin to sleep a lot more.
Is it normal for cats to sleep all day?
Yes, generally cats will sleep for 14-16 hours a day. As long as they are eating well, using the litter box normally and playing/interacting when they want to it shouldn’t be an issue.
I have had cats who sleep up to near 18 hours a day. However as long as they are eating, washing and behaving normally when they are awake it isn’t an issue. However if they are sleeping a lot more and other habits are changing then this could be a problem.
When should I be worried about my cat sleeping a lot?
If your cat is sleeping a lot and is showing other changes then it could be a problem.
- Sudden increase in sleeping.
- Not interested in food or eating less.
- Not washing.
- Hiding more.
- Losing weight or appearing weaker.
- Not using the litter box normally.
If your cat is sleeping a lot more and appears to be less interested in life then it would be best to get them checked. Older cats often hide illness by sleeping more. Try not to ignore if they suddenly start sleeping a lot more.
How much should my cat be sleeping?
There isn’t really a set amount. Young active cats may sleep for 12-14 hours. Senior cats may sleep for 16-18 hours. You just need to know what is normal for your cat.
If they suddenly start sleeping a lot more than usual and other habits are changing then take note. However if they are gradually sleeping more as they age then it is likely to be normal.
What can I do?
Ensure they are playing and interacting with you. Even playing for 10-15 minutes can help. If they aren’t doing anything they will sleep more due to boredom.
Ensure they are eating enough and drinking enough. Sometimes lack of energy can be due to not eating enough.
Watch their weight and litter box habits. These are often the first things to change. If everything else is normal then it is likely to just be them being a cat.
Some cats will sleep more during the winter or when it is cold outside. They will naturally try to conserve energy and as long as their behaviour is normal it usually isn’t an issue.
Final Thoughts
Cats naturally sleep a lot as their bodies are designed that way. Generally it is completely normal, especially for indoor cats who don’t need to hunt.
As long as you know what is normal for your cat it should be fine. If they start sleeping more suddenly or other issues arise with their eating, washing or behaviour then get them checked. However otherwise let them sleep, they are probably fine.
NB: This is general information. It is based on common behaviours and my own experience. It is not veterinary advice. If your cat’s sleeping or behaviour changes suddenly please consult a vet.
FAQs
How many hours do cats sleep?
Most cats will sleep for 12-16 hours. Some will sleep for longer, especially kittens and seniors.
Is it normal for my cat to sleep all day?
Yes for many cats. As long as they are eating, using the litter box and behaving normally when they are awake.
Why is my cat sleeping more?
It could be due to their age, they may be bored or sometimes it can be an early sign of illness. If other habits are changing then get them checked.
Do indoor cats sleep more than outdoor cats?
Generally yes. They don’t need to hunt and won’t be as alert so will rest more.