Sleep Patterns: Understanding Your Cat's Average Nap Time

Cats are renowned for their love of sleep, but just how much shut-eye do our feline friends get? Cats sleep an average of 15 hours per day, with some sleeping for up to 20 hours within a 24-hour period. This varies depending on the cat's age, health, mood, breed, diet, and lifestyle. Kittens, for example, can sleep for up to 24 hours a day, while adult cats tend to average out at 12-20 hours of sleep per day. Senior cats, on the other hand, may sleep more due to health issues or reduced mobility.

Sleep duration by age

Cats are known for their love of sleep, but the amount of sleep they need depends on their age.

Kittens

Newborn kittens sleep for 24 hours a day, growing and nursing throughout. As they mature, they'll sleep for slightly less time, but will still likely sleep for most of the day, with a few bursts of energy between meals.

Adolescents

Adolescent cats may have erratic sleep patterns, with periods of intense playfulness. They'll probably sleep for up to 20 hours a day.

Adults

Adult cats tend to have more set sleeping schedules, sleeping for an average of 12 to 20 hours each day. This can vary depending on the cat, the day, and their lifestyle. For example, indoor cats may sleep more than outdoor cats, and cats that are kept active by their owners may sleep a little less.

Seniors

Older cats tend to have less energy and reduced mobility, so they'll sleep more than younger cats. They may also experience health issues or mobility loss, which can cause them to sleep more.

Sleep cycles

Cats have a polyphasic sleep pattern, meaning they sleep multiple times a day rather than in one long period, as humans do. These cat naps average 78 minutes in length, but cats commonly sleep for periods ranging from 50 to 113 minutes.

Cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. They experience two peaks of activity: one in the early morning before sunrise and one in the evening around sunset. This sleep cycle is driven by their predatory nature. Common prey for cats, such as diurnal birds and nocturnal rodents, have different sleep cycles. By being awake at dawn and dusk, cats can prey on these different animals.

Like humans, cats experience both non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. During NREM sleep, a cat may be lightly asleep and ready to wake up at a moment's notice. Their muscles are active, and their senses are alert. You may see your cat sitting upright while in this phase. After NREM sleep, a cat may become alert again and cycle through alertness, drowsiness, and NREM sleep a few times.

Eventually, in the cycle, cats transition from NREM to REM sleep. During this phase, a cat's eyes move behind closed eyelids, both horizontally and vertically. This is when you may notice twitching whiskers, tail flicks, paw movements, and snoring. REM sleep is when humans dream, and it is theorised that cats do the same. This phase lasts for about five to seven minutes, and cats are slow to wake from this deep sleep. They then flow back to a light sleep and cycle through the two phases until they are ready to get up.

Sleep positions

Cats sleep anywhere from 12 to 20 hours per day, with an average of 15 hours. They are crepuscular, meaning they are most active at dawn and dusk. This is because other natural predators are usually hunting during the day or at night.

Cats sleep in a variety of positions, and these positions can tell you a lot about how they are feeling. Here are some of the most common cat sleep positions and what they mean:

Curled Up in a Ball

Also known as the "crescent", this is one of the most common cat sleeping positions. Cats sleep like this to maximise their body heat and stay warm. This position also helps to protect their vital organs. Cats may also choose this position when they are feeling a little insecure as it helps them feel protected.

In a Cardboard Box

Cats love to sleep in cardboard boxes as they offer protection from predators and enemies. This behaviour harkens back to their wild ancestors. If your cat is an indoor pet, sleeping in a box may indicate that they are hiding from someone or something in the house, such as a new pet or a person who wants to constantly pet or play with them.

On Their Back with Belly Exposed

If your cat sleeps on their back with their front legs either resting on their belly or stretched over their head, it means they feel very safe and confident. However, most cats will still attempt to defend themselves if you touch their belly in this position, so it's best to resist the urge to rub their tummy!

On Their Side with Legs Stretched Out

Similar to sleeping on their back, this position indicates that your cat is very comfortable and trusts you. Sleeping on their side also makes it easier for your cat to jump up and run if they need to, giving them an escape option that helps them feel more secure.

The "Cat Loaf"

In this position, the cat sits upright with its front paws tucked underneath its body and its head up. This position preserves body heat and protects vital organs. While the cat may be relaxed, it is also poised to spring into action and use its claws if it senses danger.

The "Superman" Pose

In the Superman pose, the cat lies on its belly with its front and back legs and paws stretched out. This position allows the cat to protect its vulnerable belly. While they can be relaxed in this pose, all four paws are still ready for action. Lying on something warm can help the cat conserve body heat, but they may choose to lie on a cool surface if the weather is hot.

Sleep environment

Cats sleep a lot—an average of 15 to 20 hours per day. Their sleep environment is important to them, and they will generally take a nap wherever they want, as long as it's warm and comfortable. Here are some tips to create the ideal sleep environment for your cat:

Provide a Warm and Comfortable Space

Cats often seek out warm places to sleep, such as next to a radiator or in a patch of sunshine. They also enjoy soft and cosy spots, such as piles of fresh laundry or a soft blanket inside a cardboard box. Cat beds, such as igloo beds or radiator hammocks, can provide the perfect napping spot. The Hide & Sleep® offers an ideal option as it gives cats the choice to be inside or on top of something.

Offer a Safe and Secure Location

Cats appreciate having a safe and secure place to sleep, away from potential threats. Elevated spots, such as the back of a couch or a perch, can make them feel more secure. Additionally, they may prefer enclosed spaces, such as an igloo bed or a box on its side, as these provide a sense of protection.

Allow Access to Fresh Air and Sunlight

In warmer months, your cat may prefer to sleep outdoors, soaking up the sunshine. They might choose spots like the roof of a shed or a greenhouse. Just ensure they have access to shade and fresh water to prevent overheating.

Create a Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere

Cats are light sleepers, and sudden noises can startle them awake. Try to provide a quiet and peaceful environment for their naps. If your cat tends to sleep in a busy area of the house, consider using a white noise machine or placing their bed in a quieter room to minimise disruptions.

Ensure Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Cats are naturally clean animals, and they appreciate a tidy sleep environment. Regularly clean their bed or sleeping area to remove any dirt, hair, or odours. Wash bedding frequently and vacuum or sweep the surrounding area to keep it free of clutter and debris.

Provide Options for Variety

Cats often rotate their sleeping areas, a behaviour observed in their wild ancestors. They may seek out different spots to help control parasite levels. Offer a variety of comfortable sleeping options in different locations around your home to cater to their desire for variety.

Remember, it's essential to respect your cat's sleep environment and avoid disturbing them when they're napping. Cats need a lot of sleep to maintain their energy levels, and disrupting their rest can cause them unnecessary stress.

Sleep disorders

Cats are known for their love of sleep, but sometimes, their sleep habits can be indicative of a more serious problem. While insomnia, sleep apnea, night terrors, sleepwalking, and restless leg syndrome are not common in cats, sleep disorders can still occur. Here are some sleep disorders that have been observed in cats:

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea occurs when a cat's upper airways become obstructed, causing them to stop breathing for brief periods during sleep. This disorder is most common in brachycephalic (short-faced) breeds, such as Persians, due to their compressed sinuses and narrowed trachea. Obesity, respiratory infections, and allergies can also contribute to sleep apnea. As this condition can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and diabetes, it is important to consult a veterinarian for treatment options, which may include antibiotics, antihistamines, or corrective surgery.

Narcolepsy

Narcolepsy is a rare congenital condition in cats, where they suddenly fall asleep during normal activities such as playing or eating. It is often confused with cataplexy, a neurological condition that causes spontaneous muscle paralysis and reflexes. If you suspect your cat may have narcolepsy, a veterinarian can examine them to rule out other health conditions.

Insomnia

While insomnia is more commonly associated with emotional or mental stress in humans, chronic insomnia in cats usually indicates an underlying health problem. Allergy symptoms, cognitive issues such as dementia, heart trouble, or even a brain tumour could be the cause. If your cat is exhibiting signs of insomnia, such as fidgeting at night or struggling to keep their eyes open during the day, consult your veterinarian.

REM Behaviour Disorder

Rapid Eye Movement (REM) behaviour disorder causes cats to get up and walk or run while still unconscious, which can lead to them accidentally attacking people or other pets. This disorder is often linked to thyroid issues or cognitive dysfunction. Medication or nutritional supplementation may be recommended by a veterinarian to manage this condition.

Movement Disorders

While there is little evidence of true sleep movement disorders in cats, some cases have been attributed to seizures, central nervous system (CNS) lesions or inflammation, and pain. If your cat is exhibiting significant sleep movements that cause whole-body movement and are not stopped by loud noises or touch, consult your veterinarian.

While cats are known for their high sleep needs, it is important to be vigilant for any sudden changes in their sleep habits, as these could indicate an underlying health issue.

Frequently asked questions