Yes, cats normally sleep 12 to 16 hours a day.
Normal
Adult cats sleep 12 to 16 hours a day. Kittens and seniors sleep up to 20 hours.
Why
Cats are crepuscular predators who conserve energy for hunting.
Types of sleep
Light naps and deep REM sleep.
When to worry
- Sudden increase in sleep.
- Loss of appetite.
- Hiding.
See a vet
If behavior changes.
Tip
Provide play time.
Sleep numbers for cats
Adult cats sleep about 12 to 16 hours a day, and kittens and seniors may sleep up to 20 hours. Cats are crepuscular, most active at dawn and dusk, a pattern inherited from hunting ancestors. A large share of their sleep is light dozing, with deep REM sleep making up about 25 percent.
- Sleep conserves energy between hunts. Indoor cats with little stimulation may sleep more from boredom.
- Cats may sleep through the day and be active at night, which can be adjusted with play before bedtime.
- Senior cats sleep more and may show stiffness from arthritis.
When to worry
Contact a vet if sleep increases suddenly, the cat is hard to wake, hides, stops eating, or has changes in breathing, weight or litter box habits. Conditions like hyperthyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease, anemia or pain can cause lethargy. Provide climbing spaces, interactive play for 10 to 15 minutes twice daily and puzzle feeders to keep the cat active.
Sleep numbers for cats
Adult cats sleep 12 to 16 hours a day, kittens and seniors up to 20 hours. Cats are crepuscular, active at dawn and dusk. Long sleep is normal.
When to worry
Call a vet if sleep increases suddenly, the cat hides, eats less, loses weight or breathes fast. Conditions like hyperthyroidism, kidney disease and arthritis are common in older cats.
Sleep science in cats
Cats alternate light sleep, known as dozing, with deep REM sleep, and spend about 70 percent of their lives asleep. Kittens sleep 18 to 20 hours, adults 12 to 16 and seniors may sleep more. Sleep helps conserve energy for hunting.
Warning signs
Sudden change in sleep, weight loss, drinking more, hiding or poor grooming can reflect hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, diabetes or pain. About 30 percent of cats over 10 have hyperthyroidism or kidney disease, according to veterinary data. Provide play, window perches and food puzzles to keep cats active. Annual vet exams catch problems early.
Based on data from Cornell Feline Health Center and the American Association of Feline Practitioners
