Why Do Cats Sleep So Much? Feline Sleep Explained by Age, Season & Routine

Ever wonder where your cat disappears to for most of the day? If you own a feline friend, you've probably noticed just how much time they spend napping. Don’t worry—this snoozy behaviour isn’t just normal; it’s practically a professional sport for cats. With an average of 12 to 16 hours of sleep a day (and sometimes even more), cats are among the top sleepers in the animal kingdom. But why do cats sleep so much? And when should pet parents be concerned? Let’s dive into the dream world of our feline friends and explore what all that shut-eye really means.

It’s All in Their Instincts

Cats are natural hunters—even your snuggly lap cat has instincts rooted in the wild. In nature, hunting uses bursts of high energy. To conserve energy between hunts, wild cats evolved to sleep... a lot. Though our domestic cats may not spend their days stalking prey (unless you count toy mice), the instinct to conserve energy remains. That’s why you’ll find them curled up on a windowsill or stretched out in their cosy cat bed for most of the day.

Age Matters: Kittens, Adults and Senior Snoozes

Just like human sleep patterns change over time, so do those of our cats. Young kittens may sleep up to 20 hours a day, recharging pure kitten energy as they grow and develop. Adult cats settle into a routine of around 12 to 16 hours, and seniors might upshift again—sometimes into kitten-level snooze time.

If your older cat is sleeping more than usual, it could be linked to changes in energy levels or even health conditions like arthritis or kidney disease. Supplements designed for joint support can provide added care as they age.

Weather Can Be a Factor

Think your cat sleeps more in winter? You’re not imagining it. Like us, cats often prefer to hibernate during chilly or rainy days. It’s their way of staying comfortable and conserving energy—especially when their favourite sunny spot is hiding behind clouds. It’s a great time to offer snug spots like warm bedding or even cat winter warmers to help them stay cosy.

Health or Habit? When To Worry

While most feline napping is perfectly normal, there are times when excessive sleep could signal something's off. Monitor changes in your cat’s routine—if they’re suddenly sleeping more, acting sluggish or losing appetite, it’s best to consult your vet.

Also pay attention to environment changes. Have you added a new pet? Moved house? Cats are sensitive souls, and situations like these can increase feline anxiety, which sometimes shows up as lethargy or oversleeping. If this sounds familiar, consider calming care products for cats to ease their stress and improve rest quality.

Should You Wake a Sleeping Cat?

Let sleeping cats lie, they say—and for good reason. Sleep is essential for cats' health. It’s when their bodies recover and their brains process information. Unless you have a good reason—like a vet visit or mealtime—it’s best to allow your cat to complete their nap.

You can encourage more interactive moments during their waking hours by engaging them with fun cat toys or feeding high-quality, energy-balanced cat food, such as those from nutritious brands like Feline Natural or ZIWI.

Making Cat Naps Even Better

If your cat sleeps a lot (which they probably do), you can support their wellbeing with some small but meaningful changes at home:

• Provide a few comfy sleeping spots with soft bedding for cats
• Use a cat water fountain to keep them hydrated between naps
• Feed a high-protein diet like Pro Plan or Royal Canin to support natural energy levels
• Introduce interactive toys for balanced play-sleep routines
• Consider natural pet supplements for added wellbeing

We Get Pet, And We Get Cats

At Petdirect, we know the joy of watching a content cat curl up in their favourite spot—and we also know that a healthy napper is a happy cat. Whether you’re searching for the fluffiest cat bed, the tastiest treats, or expert advice, we’re here to help.

Need help choosing the right products for your sleepy (or not-so-sleepy) feline? Our pet-loving team is just a paw-swipe away. Shop with us today and unlock exclusive benefits like Pet Perks, AutoDeliver options, and even Airpoints.

The Sleepy Truth About Cats

So, why do cats sleep so much? From ancient instincts to senior snoozes and weather-whimsy naps, the answer lies in your cat’s nature, age, health and environment. Most of the time, it’s perfectly normal—but as always, staying attuned to changes in habits is key.

Want to give your cat the ultimate sleep sanctuary? Explore our range of cat bedding, interactive toys, and premium food to support their lifestyle. Trust Petdirect—we get pet, and we proudly get your cat.