Introduction: Your Cat’s Nap Habits Might Be Smarter Than You Think
If your cat seems to sleep all day—on your couch, in a cardboard box, or curled up by the window—it’s easy to assume they’re just lazy, or maybe bored. But in many cases we’ve seen at SnuggleSouls, long naps aren’t a sign of idleness at all—they’re part of your cat’s complex internal world.
Cats are finely tuned creatures of instinct, biology, and emotional sensitivity. What may look like endless lounging can actually reflect deep-rooted survival strategies, daily rhythms inherited from their wild ancestors, or even an unspoken emotional or physical need. And once you understand why your cat sleeps so much, you can respond with more confidence, comfort, and care.
Looking for a Complete Guide?
If you’re wondering how much sleep is normal at different ages—or want to understand feline sleep cycles, ideal environments, and signs of healthy (or unhealthy) sleep—don’t miss our in-depth guide:
👉Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? Decode Cat Sleep Patterns, Health & Care
But if you’ve already ruled out abnormal sleep patterns or just want to understand the why behind your cat’s daily snoozes, this article will walk you through the 8 most common reasons cats sleep so much—and what each one means for you and your feline friend.
Why Cats Sleep So Much: Common Reasons
It turns out a cat’s love of sleep isn’t just because they’re lazy (though it can sure look that way when they’re stretched out in a sunbeam without a care in the world!). Below are the most common reasons behind those long feline snoozes:
1. Evolutionary Instincts & Energy Conservation
Your cat’s wild ancestors survived by being efficient about energy use. Hunting prey – stalking, pouncing, chasing – uses a ton of energy, so resting in between hunts was crucial. Even though our house cats get meals from a bowl, they still have that predator’s instinct to conserve energy for the “big moments” (real or imagined).
Wild big cats like lions and tigers are famous for sleeping 16–20 hours a day for the same reason – they’re saving up strength for the next hunt. House cats have inherited this trait. Predators need more sleep than prey animals, because they must be ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice. From a cat’s perspective, being awake and active with no purpose (no prey to stalk, nothing to chase) is a waste of precious calories. Once their needs are met (they’ve hunted or eaten, scouted their territory, maybe played and interacted), nature tells them to power-down and recharge.
This is why after a hearty meal you’ll often see your cat curl up for a long nap – one big meal can satisfy them for hours, and sleeping helps them digest and restore energy.
I often joke that my cat is part lion: she’ll play intensely with her feather toy for 20 minutes (her version of “hunting”), gobble down her food, and then immediately retire to her favorite cushion as if she just took down a wildebeest! Biologically, this makes sense. Cats in the wild might catch a big meal, then rest so they don’t need another meal right away.
Sleeping conserves energy and keeps them sharp. So, one key reason cats sleep so much is simply to be ready for action when it’s needed. It’s an evolutionary survival strategy. Sleep allows their body to recharge and repair – it’s when growth hormones are released, muscles and tissues recover, and the immune system gets a boost. Think of your cat as an athlete in training: intense activity followed by plenty of rest. Even if “intense activity” for Fluffy is just chasing a laser pointer, her body is following ancient instincts. In short, cats sleep a lot because they’re built to be efficient little predators who are either expending high energy or resting.
2. Crepuscular Rhythm (Active at Dawn and Dusk)
Many people assume cats are nocturnal, but that’s actually a myth. Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most naturally active during the twilight hours – around dawn and dusk. In the wild, these are prime hunting times (small prey like rodents are active at night, and birds are active at dawn, so a crepuscular hunter gets the best of both worlds).
What does this mean for your house cat? It means your kitty might have two peak energy periods: one in the early morning (e.g. those 5 AM “zoomies” across your bed), and one in the early evening (as the sun sets). The middle of the day and deep night, however, are usually “down time.” So if it seems like your cat sleeps “all day,” remember they may have been prowling the halls while you slept last night, or will be up ready to play at sunset. They’re on a different schedule than we are.
In practical terms, a crepuscular rhythm often translates to a cat that sleeps a lot during the day while you’re at work or school, then gets active in the evening. And after expending energy playing or zooming around in the evening, they might conk out again for another long sleep stretch late at night.
Many cat owners experience the classic scenario
the cat pesters you at dawn (perhaps crawling on your chest or meowing for breakfast at sunrise), then once you’re up and about, kitty promptly goes and curls up for a daytime nap. They’ve done their “morning hunt” (in their mind), and now it’s siesta time.
As veterinarian Dr. Laci Schaible puts it, “Cats are actually most active at sundown and daybreak … as soon as you are out the door and off to work, your cat settles down for a restful day of catnaps.” That’s why a cat might seem to sleep constantly through the day – they’re making up for their early morning antics or storing energy for the evening.
This crepuscular pattern is hard-wired. Cats tend to lay low during the brightest and darkest parts of the 24-hour cycle, times when their wild ancestors would be at a disadvantage or facing other predators. Dawn and dusk are their sweet spots. Of course, domesticated cats also adapt somewhat to our schedules.
Many will adjust to be awake when the household is active (often because that’s when interesting things happen and when feeding occurs). I’ve noticed my cats adjust their naps so that they’re awake when I come home (anticipating play or dinner), then snooze later. But if you have a cat who seems to “party” overnight and then sleeps all day, crepuscular instincts are likely at play.
Bottom line
Part of why cats rack up so many sleeping hours is because their natural rhythm is different from ours. They distribute their awake time across dawn, dusk, and sometimes night, and catch lots of sleep in between. It’s as if they have their own time zone! Understanding this can help you be more patient when your cat wakes you at sunrise – they’re not trying to be naughty; it’s in their genes.
You can try to engage them in the evening to shift some of that activity to more convenient times (tips on that later), but some early morning friskiness and subsequent daytime snoozing is to be expected from a healthy cat.
3. Catnaps and Light Sleep (Always On Alert)
Another reason it appears that cats sleep so much is that they have a very different sleep structure than we do. Cats are the masters of the “catnap,” a term that exists for good reason. Instead of long, uninterrupted slumber, cats take many short naps. These naps are often light sleep rather than deep sleep. Biologically, this allows cats to rest while still being attuned to their environment.
During a light nap, a cat’s senses remain primed – their ears will flick toward strange sounds, and they can wake up and jump into action in a split second if needed. This is an instinctive behavior from times when they might need to quickly escape danger or catch an opportunity for food.
If you observe your napping kitty closely, you might notice signs of this half-awake, half-asleep state. For example, my cat will sometimes sleep with her head upright and ears rotating toward any noise; her eyes may be closed but you can see the tail tip twitch when I open a bag of treats – she’s asleep, but not that asleep! Cats can spend hours in this state that looks like sleep, but they’re really just “resting their eyes.”
As the Kinship animal behavior experts note, the line between resting and truly sleeping can blur: cats may curl up with eyes closed and appear to be asleep, when in fact they’re just relaxing and still alert. This resting behavior, which might fool us into thinking they are sleeping a ton, actually might not count as genuine sleep from the cat’s perspective. It’s more like us lounging on the couch but perking up at a phone notification – we wouldn’t count that as quality sleep.
When cats doze in these brief spurts, they are likely cycling in and out of NREM (non-REM) sleep, a lighter stage of sleep where they can wake easily. They save their deeper REM sleep for when they feel truly secure. Interestingly, an average cat nap might last only 15 to 30 minutes in this light phase. These little naps let them rest their bodies and minds without fully losing consciousness of their surroundings. Only once in a while will a cat settle into a longer, deep sleep where you might see dreaming and complete relaxation.
Why is this important
Because when we tally up “18 hours of sleep,” a good chunk of that time is actually these vigilant catnaps. It’s less “deep restorative sleep” than you might assume. Your cat is getting rest, but she’s also ready to spring up if the doorbell rings or if you walk into the kitchen (because there might be food!). This pattern can make cats seem like they’re sleeping almost every time you glance at them, but they might just be in standby mode. It’s another survival trick: a dozing cat can recharge a bit while still staying safe.
In terms of behavior, catnaps also mean cats can adjust their total sleep on the fly. They have lots of “slots” in the day to insert a nap if needed. For example, if you have an active play session with your cat in the afternoon (using up energy), she might just add an extra nap or two later to catch up. Their schedule is very flexible, which is why they sometimes have random bursts of energy at odd times and extra snoozes at others.
So, part of “why cats sleep so much” is essentially because they can – their bodies are built to grab sleep in many short doses. They accumulate a large total number of hours by piecing together all those little naps. It’s efficient, and it works for them.
The upside for cat owners is that cats can be pretty self-sufficient in managing their sleep needs. The downside is you might feel your cat is always sleeping when you want to play with them! But rest assured, those quick catnaps are a normal aspect of feline life and a big reason behind the high sleep hours.
4. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation
Sometimes, a cat sleeps simply because there isn’t anything better to do. Boredom is a very real issue for indoor cats. In the wild, a cat’s day would be filled with the purpose of survival – hunting, patrolling territory, finding mates, etc. Our pet cats, while safer and well-fed, often don’t have to work for those things.
If an indoor cat’s environment is not enriched with toys, play, or interaction, they might end up napping out of sheer boredom. Think of a person stuck alone in a quiet room with no books or phone – eventually, you might doze off just to pass the time. Cats are similar; if nothing interesting is happening, why not catch a nap?
A cat who lacks mental and physical stimulation can become lethargic and sleepy as a way of “filling the time,” as one veterinary source notes. I’ve seen this with my own cats: on days when I’m busy and don’t have time to play or if they don’t have access to stimulating sights (like birds at the window), they just sack out and sleep more. It’s not that they need that extra sleep, but it’s a way to cope with boredom.
In fact, prolonged boredom can lead to an oversleeping, under-exercised kitty, which isn’t ideal for their health. It’s a bit of a vicious cycle: the more bored they are, the more they sleep; the more they sleep, the less exercise and stimulation they get, leading to weight gain or nighttime restlessness.
It’s worth noting that boredom can also cause behavioral problems in cats. While the cat might sleep a lot as one outlet, when they’re awake they may vent frustration in less pleasant ways. According to pet behaviorists, a bored cat could resort to destructive behavior, excessive meowing, or over-grooming when awake. In other words, oversleeping might be the symptom of an under-stimulated life, and if you scratch beneath that, you might find an unhappy cat. The good news is that the cure here is straightforward: enrich your cat’s environment and routine.
Provide toys that encourage solo play (like puzzle feeders or motion toys), set up a perch by a window where they can watch birds and the outside world, and dedicate time each day for interactive play with your cat. Even another feline friend can help – cats will play, chase, and engage each other (though adding a new cat should be done carefully and only if appropriate for your situation).
One personal anecdote
I noticed that my cat was oversleeping out of boredom during a period when I was away at work for very long days. She had food and comfy spots, but little stimulation. She started napping almost the entire day and then waking me up at 3 AM, desperate for interaction. The solution was giving her more to do during the day – I got her a puzzle feeder (to make getting treats a game) and a couple of new toys, and I asked a neighbor to pop in occasionally for a play session.
It was like magic: she started staying awake a bit more in the day (playing with her toys), and slept more at night instead. A bored cat will fill their time with sleep, but a stimulated cat will use their energy in fun ways and then sleep at more convenient times.
In summary, if your cat’s endless snoozing is accompanied by signs of boredom (like apathy towards things or mischief when awake), consider that maybe they just need more enrichment.
Sometimes, the key to less daytime sleeping is as simple as a feather wand and a few minutes of your time playing chase-the-toy. Keeping your cat engaged not only reduces boredom naps, it also leads to a happier, healthier pet. So while boredom naps are a common reason cats sleep a lot, it’s one we, as pet owners, can actively help with.
5. Stress or Anxiety
Interestingly, stress can either cause a cat to sleep more or disturb their sleep – and often it does both in a cycle. Cats are sensitive creatures, and changes or conflicts in their environment can lead to stress or anxiety. Just like some humans might sleep more when they’re depressed or stressed as an escape, cats too might retreat to sleep as a form of coping. A normally active cat might start oversleeping if they’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed by something in their world.
For example, big changes such as moving to a new home, the addition of a new family member (a baby, a new pet, a roommate), or even a shift in routine (like a change in your work schedule) can stress a cat out. One way they may respond is by altering their sleep patterns – often sleeping more than usual.
Stress-related oversleeping often comes with other hints. You might notice your cat is hiding more, interacting less, or showing changes in appetite or litter box habits. In some cases, stress can also make cats less inclined to sleep at their normal times – for instance, an anxious cat might pace or vocalize at night (the stress making them restless) and then they end up exhausted and sleeping all day to catch up.
So the sleep changes can go either direction with anxiety: some stressed cats basically shut down and snooze, while others can’t relax when they normally would. *Maybe too much stress can also cause peeing bed.
Pay attention to environmental triggers. Did the oversleeping coincide with something like remodeling in the house, loud construction noise, another pet being added, or even something subtle like you changing the placement of their litter box or feeding station? Cats thrive on stability, and stress can come from seemingly minor disruptions.
I recall when I introduced a second cat into my household – my first cat, though not outwardly hostile to the newcomer, started sleeping noticeably more in the daytime and spent a lot of time tucked away in the closet. This was her way of withdrawing from a situation she wasn’t thrilled about. With some extra coaxing, dedicated one-on-one time, and patience, she returned to her normal routine once she felt secure again.
It’s crucial to recognize that if your cat is sleeping a ton and showing other signs of stress (like being skittish, over-grooming, decreased appetite, or eliminating outside the litter box), addressing the underlying anxiety is important. Feline behaviorists note that a “calm, sleepy exterior may hide a tightly wound ball of stress,” and that stress in cats can manifest in increased sleep along with other changes like eating more/less or even aggression in some cases.
So, more sleep could be your cat’s coping mechanism for stress. They might be thinking, in cat logic, “If I just curl up here and make myself small and quiet, maybe the scary thing will go away.”
What can you do?
First, try to identify and reduce the stressor: maintain routine feeding times, keep their environment predictable, provide hiding spots so they feel secure, and give reassurance with gentle attention. Using calming pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) or seeking advice from a vet about anti-anxiety strategies can help if a cat’s anxiety is serious. The goal is a relaxed cat who sleeps the normal amount – not an anxious cat who sleeps excessively as a form of escape.
If stress is temporary (say, guests in the house for a week), you might just see your cat sleep more until things quiet down. That’s okay, but always monitor that they’re still eating, drinking, and using the litter box normally. Those are key indicators that, while they might be a bit stressed, they’re managing. If any of those functions go awry, it’s a sign stress is tipping into a health concern.
In summary, emotional factors like stress, anxiety, or even sadness can influence a cat’s sleep a lot. When nothing physical is wrong but a cat is sleeping much more, consider their emotional environment. A content cat will have a fairly steady sleep routine, whereas a troubled cat may hide and sleep excessively (or become restless). By creating a secure, loving environment and addressing potential stress triggers, you can help your cat feel safe – and their sleep schedule should normalize as a result.
6. Illness or Medical Conditions
hen a cat isn’t feeling well, one of the first signs can be a change in sleep patterns. Many illnesses can cause lethargy and excessive sleepiness. Think about when you’re sick – you probably spend more time in bed. Similarly, a sick cat’s body often tells them to slow down and rest while it fights off the problem. If you notice your cat sleeping significantly more than usual, it could be an early indicator of an underlying health issue.
Some medical conditions commonly associated with increased sleep or lethargy in cats include: feline diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, and even cancer. Let’s touch on a couple of examples from that list:
· Hyperthyroidism or Hypothyroidism
These are opposite thyroid issues. Hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) is actually common in older cats and typically makes cats restless, hyperactive, and less inclined to sleep. You might see a hyperthyroid cat pacing at night or generally unable to settle (along with weight loss despite high appetite). So paradoxically, hyperthyroidism can reduce sleep. However, because it disrupts the normal cycle, the cat may end up exhausted or with fragmented sleep.
On the flip side, hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) is rare in adult cats (occasionally seen in juveniles or as a result of hyperthyroid treatment) but when it occurs it causes lethargy. A hypothyroid cat will be very sluggish, cold-seeking, and will indeed sleep more. It’s worth mentioning because the prompt listed hyperthyroidism as an example – likely meaning any thyroid imbalance could affect sleep. If your cat has any thyroid issue, you’ll usually notice other signs (weight changes, appetite changes) in addition to altered sleep.
· Diabetes
Cats with diabetes can become quite lethargic and weak when their blood sugar is not well controlled. High blood glucose means their cells aren’t getting the energy they need, so the cat feels tired and may sleep more. You might also see increased thirst/urination and changes in weight. If a previously active cat is suddenly sleeping a lot and drinking water like crazy, diabetes is one possibility to investigate.
In the early stages, a diabetic cat might just seem “lazy” and sleep more, which is why any sustained increase in sleepiness warrants a vet check. Diabetes was specifically mentioned because once treated, cats often regain their energy. But untreated, they’ll be low-energy.
· Kidney Disease
This is common in older cats. It can make cats feel generally unwell or nauseous, leading them to sleep and withdraw. Often a cat with advancing kidney disease will both sleep more and have odd wakeful episodes (like yowling at night) due to toxin imbalances. So sleep is disrupted in both directions.
Chronic pain conditions like arthritis (we’ll cover pain separately next, but it’s a medical issue too): If it hurts to move, a cat will move less and often just stay in one place resting. They may sleep to avoid the pain of activity.
The key point is that if your cat is sleeping a lot more and you notice other symptoms such as not eating well, weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, coughing/sneezing, or any other change, an illness could be at play. Sickness often “brings out the sleepiness in us all,” as one article put it – extra sleep can give the body a chance to heal.
But for a pet owner, those additional hours in dreamland are a cue to pay closer attention. Cats can’t say “I’m feeling sick,” but their behavior can speak volumes. A cat who suddenly trades playtime for nap time might be under the weather.
A short-term increase in sleep might occur with a minor illness (like a kitty cold)
they’ll sleep it off and bounce back. However, if the cause is something chronic like heart disease or kidney disease, the lethargy will persist or worsen. That’s why it’s important to consult a veterinarian if you observe unusual lethargy or prolonged excessive sleep, especially if accompanied by any other signs of illness.
The vet can run tests to determine if there’s an underlying condition. Many of the ailments listed (thyroid issues, diabetes, etc.) are quite treatable with medication and management, which can dramatically improve your cat’s quality of life – and often their energy levels will improve too once the illness is addressed.
In a practical example, I had a normally spry cat who started lounging and sleeping almost all day, and I also noticed she was eating less and just wasn’t herself. Blood tests at the vet revealed early kidney issues. We started her on a special diet and fluids, and she became more comfortable – her nap times went back to normal lengths once she was feeling better. It was a reminder that cats are stoic; they often hide pain or illness, and increased sleep might be one of the first and only hints you get.
To sum up, illness is a critical category to consider if your cat’s sleeping habits change dramatically. Conditions ranging from mild to serious can induce more sleep. Keep an eye out for any additional symptoms, and when in doubt, have a vet check your cat. It’s always better to catch a health issue early. Remember, a cat sleeping a lot and showing other illness signs is not just “being lazy” – they may be asking for help in the only way they know how.
7. Pain or Arthritis
Cats are experts at hiding pain. In the wild, showing pain or weakness could make them a target, so even our domesticated cats often suffer in silence. One way a cat might cope with chronic pain (like arthritis) or even an injury is by moving less and sleeping more. If it hurts to jump, climb, or play, the cat will avoid those activities and might choose to just curl up and nap.
Unfortunately, this can easily be mistaken for “Oh, he’s just getting older and lazier,” when in reality the cat is resting to avoid discomfort.
Arthritis is extremely common in senior cats – far more than many people realize – and it can be a significant cause of increased sleeping. Research indicates that the majority of cats over 10 have some degree of arthritis in their joints, which can make movement stiff or painful. You might notice subtle signs like hesitating before jumping down from the couch or not climbing to high perches they used to love.
Along with that, you may notice they spend more time in one spot (often a low, accessible spot) napping. The cat isn’t sleeping more just because they’re old; they may be aching. As PetMD notes, it’s not uncommon for cats to develop joint pain as they age, and “to relieve their discomfort, they may become lethargic and sleep more.” In other words, they’re sleeping because moving hurts, and sleep is a refuge from pain.
Injuries (like a sprain or after a rough landing) similarly can cause a temporary boost in sleep as the cat rests to heal. If your cat had a crazy play session or you suspect they took a tumble, don’t be surprised if they sleep a bit extra in the next day or two – that’s their body’s way of recuperating.
I’ve gone through this with one of my cats who insisted on leaping from a high bookshelf and tweaked her leg; she spent the next couple of days mostly snoozing in a comfy bed. With some pain meds (from the vet) and time, she was back to normal and her activity (and normal sleep routine) resumed.
Dental pain or other internal pain can also drain a cat’s energy. Really, any source of chronic pain or discomfort might manifest as “excessive sleep” or general inactivity. A cat in pain might also have a poor appetite or be grumpier when awake, so look for those clues.
In summary, pain is a sleeper (no pun intended) cause of increased sleep in cats. It’s easy to miss, but it’s important. Our cats can’t tell us when something hurts, but they might show us by withdrawing into sleep. Always observe if your “lazy” cat is showing other signs like stiffness or sensitivity. Addressing pain can give your cat a new lease on life – and you might find they trade some of those naps for gentle play or interaction when they feel better.
8. Seasonal Changes
Have you noticed your cat curling up and sleeping even more on cold winter days? You’re not imagining it. Seasonal changes can affect a cat’s sleeping habits. Many owners report that their cats sleep longer during the winter months. This is usually perfectly normal and is thought to be related to changes in daylight and temperature.
In the shorter, darker days of winter, your cat’s body clock (circadian rhythm) may signal that it’s “low activity time,” prompting more dozing. One veterinarian explains that as the days get shorter and darker, a cat’s natural rhythm readjusts and they’re likely to sleep more – in fact, some cats can sleep up to 20 hours a day in the winter. It’s similar to how humans might feel a bit more lethargic or inclined to hibernate when it’s cold and dark outside.
Cats also love warmth
In winter there’s less of it available. On a chilly day, many cats seek the coziest spot (near a heater, under a blanket, on your laptop) and settle in. It’s not a stretch to say they prefer to stay bundled up rather than move around in a cold environment. My cats definitely become heat-seeking missiles in winter, gravitating to patches of sunlight or heating vents, and once they find that warm comfort, they inevitably conk out for a long nap. Colder temperatures can encourage more sleep simply because it’s the comfortable choice for a cat.
Also, if we humans adjust our routines in winter (staying in more, maybe sleeping in a bit or going to bed early on dark evenings), our pets often mirror that to some extent. I notice that during winter I get up later, and consequently, my cats also shift their schedule a bit – they’re not bugging me at 5 AM quite as much, maybe because it’s still dark then, so they continue to snooze.
Increased winter sleep is usually nothing to worry about
It’s more of a cozy adaptation than a problem. However, keep an eye on extreme lethargy in winter that doesn’t perk up at all during their usual active times, just to be safe. And ensure they have warm, comfortable places to rest. Cats can catch hypothermia or just become uncomfortable if they don’t have warm spots in a cold house. Most will find blankets or your lap, but always good to provide options (like a heated pet bed or an extra fleece in their favorite basket).
Interestingly, when spring comes and days lengthen, you might see your cat’s energy increase again – more daylight can mean more play and slightly less sleep. I see it every year: the first warm spring days my cats get a bit “spring fever” and stay up longer exploring the house or begging to look out the windows, compared to their winter hibernation mode.
In conclusion
seasonal changes, especially winter’s short days and cold weather, can lead to longer cat naps. It’s a natural response and typically fine. Just keep your kitty comfy and enjoy those extra snuggle sessions when the weather outside is frightful. Cats truly know how to make the best of a cozy winter day – by napping right through it!
Conclusion
Excessive sleep might look lazy, but for cats, it’s usually instinct, rhythm, or a subtle signal about their wellbeing. From crepuscular habits to boredom, or even hidden pain, every long nap has a reason.
The good news? Most of these reasons are natural—or fixable. With the right insight, enriched environments, and gentle observation, you can support your cat’s unique rhythm and catch any concerns early.
Remember, cats aren’t just sleeping—they’re communicating. Their naps are part of how they stay healthy, safe, and balanced.
For the full sleep cycle breakdown by age, signs of abnormal patterns, and proven tips to help your cat rest better, visit our complete guide:
👉Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? Decode Cat Sleep Patterns, Health & Care
You’re not overthinking it—and your cat’s not just being lazy. You’re listening. Let’s keep helping them rest well, feel safe, and thrive.
FAQ
1. Is it normal for my cat to sleep over 15 hours a day?
Yes. Most adult cats sleep between 12–16 hours a day, and kittens or seniors may sleep up to 20 hours. It’s normal unless accompanied by other unusual symptoms.
2. Why does my cat always seem to nap in short bursts?
Cats are light sleepers by nature. Most of their sleep is polyphasic and consists of multiple short catnaps to stay alert while resting.
3. How can I tell if my cat is sleeping out of boredom?
If your cat lacks toys, stimulation, or regular interaction and sleeps excessively during the day, boredom could be the reason. Try enriching their environment and observe changes.
4. Can anxiety or stress make my cat sleep more?
Yes. Emotional distress may lead cats to withdraw or sleep more as a coping mechanism. Look for other signs like hiding, over-grooming, or appetite changes.
5. What health problems cause cats to sleep more than usual?
Common culprits include arthritis, diabetes, kidney disease, or thyroid issues. If your cat’s sleeping habits shift suddenly or come with other symptoms, consult your vet promptly.
References
Coates, J. (2018). Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? PetMD. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much
Schaible, L. (2025). How Much Should Your Adult Cat Sleep? BeChewy. Retrieved from https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/training-and-behavior/how-much-should-your-adult-cat-sleep
Van de Kieft, J. (2025). Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? Kinship. Retrieved from https://www.kinship.com/cat-behavior/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much
Sleep Foundation. (2022). How Long Do Cats Sleep? SleepFoundation.org. Retrieved from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/animals-and-sleep/how-much-do-cats-sleep
Tomis, V. (2023). 3 Reasons Why Cats Sleep More in Winter. Rover. Retrieved from https://www.rover.com/blog/do-cats-sleep-more-in-winter/
Zittritsch, N. (2023). Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? PetMD. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/why-do-cats-sleep-so-much
Cassady, L. (2024). When to Worry About a Senior Cat’s Sleeping Habits. Heron’s Crossing Veterinary. Retrieved from https://heronscrossing.vet/articles/when-to-worry-about-a-senior-cats-sleeping-habits/