My cat does nothing but sleep. Explaining why your beloved cat sleeps so much and how much sleep is appropriate.

Sleeping on their backs, curled up like shrimp, or in a "cat donut"—just watching a cat sleeping soundly is enough to make anyone feel happy.

It’s easy to see why the Japanese word for cat, "neko," is said to be derived from "neko" (sleeping child). It makes you feel a little envious of their free-spirited, relaxed lifestyle.

But sometimes, you might feel a bit worried, thinking, "Is it really okay that they're sleeping all the time?" or "I feel like they've been sleeping more than they used to." In this article, we’ll explain why cats sleep so much and what constitutes a healthy amount of sleep for them.

Why cats sleep so much

The reason cats sleep so much lies in their diet and lifestyle.

Conserving energy for hunting

The ancestors of modern cats survived by hunting prey.

Unlike lions, who hunt in prides, cats hunted alone. If a hunt failed, they would have to go hungry, and if they weren't successful hunters, they simply wouldn't survive.

To ensure a successful hunt and secure a meal, they had to conserve their energy. This is why they need plenty of sleep and rest.

Digestion takes time

Cats are carnivores. Meat is high in protein and calories, allowing them to get sufficient energy from a single meal.

However, digestion consumes a lot of energy, so it is believed that they avoid wasting physical strength by sleeping. Their lifestyle is essentially built around eating and then resting in preparation for the next hunt.

What is the average sleep time for a cat?

The average sleep time for an adult cat is about 12 to 16 hours. They spend most of their day sleeping.

While you might find yourself wondering, "Is it okay for them to sleep this much?" or "Are they oversleeping?", this is completely normal for a cat, so there is no need to worry.

Additionally, a cat's sleep patterns change as they age.

Kittens sleep on average 18 to 20 hours

Kittens sleep even longer. Until they are about six months old, they may sleep for more than 20 hours a day. Growth hormones are secreted while they sleep, so sleep is vital for a growing kitten.

Senior cats sleep more

Once a cat passes the age of 10, you might notice them sleeping more. They may sleep up to 20 hours a day, but this is usually due to a decline in physical strength. Try not to disturb them and watch over them gently.

Cats are crepuscular

Although cats are often thought of as nocturnal, they are actually "crepuscular", meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk.

They act in accordance with the activity patterns of their natural prey, such as small birds and mice. Consequently, they spend most of the daytime, when their prey is inactive, sleeping.

Some cats may adjust their rhythm to match their owner's, becoming active during the day and sleeping at night. If your cat runs around wildly at night, they might simply have a surplus of energy.

Could it be illness? Pay attention to changes in sleep

Changes in your cat's sleep patterns can be a barometer for their health. There is a possibility that they are sleeping more or less due to feeling unwell, so stay alert.

Enduring pain

If a cat is in pain due to conditions like arthritis, they will often stay still in a quiet place. You may notice them sleeping more and losing their usual energy, such as refusing to climb cat trees or play.

Hiding signs of illness

Cats are experts at hiding when they feel unwell. They may huddle up in pain or discomfort caused by conditions like cystitis or gastroenteritis. In addition to changes in sleep, be sure to observe them closely for changes in appetite, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Inability to sleep due to dementia, vision, or hearing issues

Conversely, sleep time can sometimes decrease. Signs like wandering and crying throughout the night due to dementia, or insomnia caused by failing sight or hearing, can be concerning. Please consult your local veterinarian about your cat's behavior.

Creating an environment where they can sleep peacefully

For cats, sleep is essential for their health and longevity. Let’s review their sleeping environment to ensure they can relax and get plenty of rest.

Place beds in various spots

Provide clean beds in your cat's favorite spots. Place them in several areas, such as sunny spots, areas where they can look outside, or quiet places where they can be alone. Even just laying out a blanket or fleece can work well.

Pay attention to room temperature

Ideal conditions for the rainy season and summer are 27–30°C (80–86°F) with a humidity of 40–60%. In winter, 18–23°C (64–73°F) is comfortable. Use your air conditioner effectively to adjust the temperature to what your cat finds comfortable.

Relieving stress is also important

Although cats spend most of the day sleeping, moderate exercise is also crucial.

Cats kept strictly indoors may lack exercise, so having a cat tree or catwalks—things that stimulate their instincts—is necessary.

They also love to play with their owners. Games that mimic hunting are a great way to resolve lack of exercise and relieve stress.

Summary

Along with diet, water intake, and litter box habits, sleep time is an important record of your cat's health. Observe your cat closely while they are healthy.

In times of need, it is very important for your vet to know how your cat behaves when they are healthy. With the Poponeko original "Cat Health Journal," you can quickly take notes on your cat's daily condition.

For the health and longevity of your cat, please pay attention to their sleeping time.

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