Cats' Sleeping Habits

Cats are popular household pets known for taking long "cat naps" throughout the day. Often considered lazy, cats sleep more than almost any other mammal, according to the website Pet-Tails. In general, most cats sleep anywhere from 13 to 16 hours per day. Young kittens require even more sleep.

  1. Hours of Sleep

    • The number of hours your cat sleeps may vary depending on the weather outside, the cat's weight, if it is hungry and the temperature, according to the website Pet-Tails. The reasons behind the cat's sleepy nature is probably due to its genetic makeup; hunting in the wild requires a great deal of energy, and so the cat requires long periods of sleep to rest and prepare for the next hunt, according to the website Vetinfo. Though house cats do not have to stalk and catch their prey, their bodies are still designed to do so.

    Dreams and Wakefulness

    • While napping, you may notice your cat moving its paws or twitching. Like humans, cats experience rapid eye movement (REM) as well as non-REM sleep. During REM sleep, your cat may be moving because it is dreaming. During non-REM sleep, your cat is in a deep and restful sleep.

      Additionally, you may notice that your cat wakes quickly at the slightest sound or movement. In the wild, cats must be ready to respond to danger at a moment's notice, even when resting, notes Vetinfo.

    Changes in Sleep Behaviors

    • If you notice abrupt changes in your cat's sleep patterns, watch for other changes in its personality or behavior and talk to your vet. Boredom is a common cause for lethargy in house cats; try providing more stimulation through toys or extra play time. A cat may also sleep more if it is sick. Cats that sleep less may be suffering from a thyroid condition.

    Early Morning Wake-Up

    • Though considered by many to be nocturnal animals, cats are actually crepescular, meaning that they are at their most active at dawn and dusk. This is because the animals cats prey upon are also awake and moving about during these times, according to Pet-Tails. If your cat routinely wakes you early, try heavy curtains to block the sunlight. Avoid feeding your pet very early in the morning or it may become used to early feedings. If your cat keeps you awake at night, keep it more active during the day.