Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?
If you have a cat at home or are thinking of adopting one, you will be amazed when you find out that your cat sleeps all day long. Not to worry! This is normal for cats as they are known for their inherent ability to sleep anywhere from 12 to 15 hours a day.
It’s a known fact that cats sleep almost twice the amount as we humans do. Of course, each cat is different in their sleeping patterns and it really depends on their size, temperament, and age. Regardless, cats will sleep almost 2/3 of their entire lives!
Only opossums and bats sleep more than cats.
Cats are most active at night and early morning.
Cats are crepuscular pets which means they are most active in the very early morning hours and late at night. Since they are so active during those times, cats need their rest and tend to sleep the day away.
Kittens sleep more than cats
Kittens are growing and developing, so they need to sleep more than adult cats to replenish their strength. When a kitten starts to mature, he or she will have a sleeping pattern more consistent to that of an adult cat.
Cats conserve energy with their power sleeping
In the wild, cats are predators and have to hunt for their food. Large cats such as cougars and lions have a similar sleep pattern of sleeping during the daytime and then hunting at night. Sleeping conserves their energy so they can be ready to chase down their prey!
Even though our indoor domesticated cats don’t need to hunt for food, they still have that natural need to prey, run, pounce or tackle. Sleeping allows them to have the energy to do just that.
Cats sleep and nap in intervals
Cats won’t sleep 14 hours a day consecutively. They take 3 to 4-hour interval naps while they close their eyes, but are still very alert to what’s happening around them. If they hear a sound or noise, they’ll wake up, take a look around at their surroundings and if all is well, we’ll go back to their nap.
Cats will have short bouts of deep sleep
Cats will experience a deep sleep but it tends to only last for 5 to 10 minutes and then they are back to dozing. It’s called REM sleep, similar to humans, where their brain is more active. This is when they are known to dream.
Cats will develop a regular sleeping schedule
Just like we do, cats will develop a sleeping schedule that suits their needs. As a cat adjusts to a new home, their sleeping pattern tends to mimic those of their owners.
If you are away all day, cats will also take this time to sleep and replenish their energy. Cats will sleep at times merely out of boredom which is why it’s great to leave some toys out for them while you are gone.
Cats will sleep anywhere
Cats are known to sleep in the oddest places. Even if you purchase the plushest bed for your kitty, don’t be surprised if you find your cat sleeping on a window perch or on top of a shopping bag.
So now you know why that feline friend of yours sleeps so darn much and that it’s normal.
However, if you find your cat sleeping longer than his or her usual amount, this could indicate a problem and you should take your cat to the vet immediately.
A few tips to keep in mind regarding your cat’s health:
1. Take your cat to the vet on an annual basis, even if your cat seems perfectly healthy to make sure all is well. Cats are known to mask their feelings.
2. If your cat stops eating for more than a day, take him or her to the vet immediately.
3. If your cat is meowing excessively (more than usual), also take him or her for a checkup.
Cats are wonderful, amazing pets and will keep you entertained and comforted. In return, we want them to stay healthy and live a long happy life, and to be able to give them the best care possible.
Pet insurance is a great option to consider, that will allow you to do just that. You will be prepared financially if your cat becomes sick or even injures his or her paw. The best pet insurance companies will give you the comfort of knowing that you can always take care of your cat without breaking the bank.
Ah, they have you fooled. While you may percieve them as asleep, they are often simply meditating. It is part of the reason that felines are the one species that is truly enlightened.
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Very cool and informative info!
Thank you 🙂
Good to know nothing to worry about. Good information. So my cat with her regular sleep and naps = at least 22 hours no kidding. She’s active in Morning and sometimes in the early evening.
Sometimes access to extra toys will entice them to play more
I suspect that at least 10% of the time they appear to be sleeping, they’re really planning some outrage.
?so frue
Good article