Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? The Answer Might Surprise You

If you’re a cat owner, you’ve probably noticed that their sleep schedule is different from yours — and by that I mean they sleep A LOT. While it’s easy to assume that cats are just lazy creatures that can’t get enough of their cozy cat beds, the truth is that their sleep patterns are much more complex than we realize. In this post, we’ll explore the reasons why cats sleep so much and dive into the surprising science behind their snoozing habits.

How Much Do Cats Actually Sleep?

Cats are known for being champion sleepers. On average, cats sleep between 12 to 16 hours a day, although some can sleep up to 20 hours, especially older or very young cats.

Why Do Cats Sleep So Much?

Predator Instincts

Cats sleep so much primarily due to their natural instincts as predators. In the wild, hunting requires a lot of energy, and to be effective hunters, cats need to conserve their strength for those intense bursts of activity. This is why even domesticated cats, who no longer need to hunt for survival, retain this trait and spend a large portion of their day sleeping. Their sleep allows them to recharge and be ready for any potential “hunting” (or in the case of house cats, playtime) at a moment’s notice.

Cat Naps > Deep Sleep

Cats also have a unique sleep pattern that contributes to their long sleep hours. Unlike humans, who tend to sleep in one long stretch, cats sleep in multiple short bursts throughout the day and night. These naps, often called “catnaps,” allow them to remain alert to their surroundings. While cats do experience deep sleep, which is crucial for restorative rest, they spend a significant portion of their sleep in a light, dozing state. This light sleep enables them to quickly wake up and respond to any perceived threats or opportunities, reflecting their evolution as both predators and prey.

Crepuscular Sleep Schedule

Another reason cats sleep so much is because they are crepuscular animals. This means that they are most active during dawn and dusk when prey animals are most active. Because of their natural hunting instincts, cats conserve their energy during the day so that they can be alert and active during the times when their prey is most active. By sleeping for long periods of time during the day, cats are able to save their energy and be fully rested for their hunting activities.

Unique Anatomy

Unlike humans, who have a range of muscles and ligaments to help support their weight while they sleep, cats rely on a more limited number of muscles and ligaments to support their entire body weight. This requires a lot of energy, and sleeping for long periods of time allows cats to regenerate that energy so that they can be fully rested and ready for activity and exercise when they wake up.

Your Sleep Habits

It’s also worth noting that cats are social creatures, and they often adapt their sleep patterns to match those of their owners. If you’re an early riser, your cat may be more active during the morning, while if you’re a night owl, your cat may be more active at night.

Cat Sleep: Explained

While it may seem like cats sleep excessively, there are a variety of reasons for their sleep patterns. From their natural hunting instincts to their unique anatomy and lifestyle, cats have developed a sleep pattern that works best for their needs. As a cat owner, it’s important to respect your cat’s sleep patterns and provide them with a comfortable and safe place to rest when they need it. By doing so, you’ll help ensure that your cat stays healthy, happy, and well-rested.