How many hours do cats sleep? On average a cat can sleep from between 15 to 20 hours per day. While every cat’s sleep schedule is unique, you may have noticed that your cat spends most of your waking hours napping and there are a number of reasons for this.

In this blog post, we will take a look at exactly what you need to know about your cat’s sleep routine and delve into the reasons why cats sleep so much.

Why is my cat so tired all the time?

Cats are natural-born hunters and even though your cat doesn’t have to go out to hunt for food, he or she will still retain the predatory instinct passed down from its feline ancestors.

Historically cats used to hunt at dusk and at dawn and you may notice that it is these times that your pet is most active. Hunting is hard work and when your cat is sleeping for 15 to 20 hours per day, what they are actually displaying is their ability to conserve energy for the hunt. 

Is it normal for a cat to want to sleep all the time?

Yes, it’s totally normal for your cat to be sleeping in various places in your house for a large portion of the day. It is important to note that while your cat may rest for 15 to 20 hours per day, not all of these hours will be spent in a deep sleep, sometimes your cat will be napping or simply resting. Now we can see where the term cat nap stems from.

If your cat is healthy and well, sleeping for most of the day isn’t a cause for concern but if you suspect your cat might be ill, it could be wise to seek advice from your vet. Sleeping can sometimes be a coping mechanism that cats use if they are poorly or stressed. You can tell a lot about your cat from where they choose to sleep. If your cat is sleeping under a bed or sleeping out of sight, this could be a sign that your pet is under the weather.

How much should cats sleep every day?

Every cat is different but most cats tend to sleep for anywhere between 15 and 20 hours per day. This will be broken up into different chunks of time and your cat may wake up to explore its surroundings, eat, drink and play at various intervals.

Should I let my cat sleep as much as he wants?

It’s normal for your cat to recharge by sleeping in the day, many cats are nocturnal and are awake after dark. There is no harm in letting your cat sleep as much as he or she wants to but if you are worried your cat is bored or isn’t getting enough stimulation, you could invest in some enrichment toys to entertain him during waking hours.

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