Cats love to sleep on the couch, behind the curtains, on the windowsill, or even in the shower.
Cats sleep an average of 12-16 hours- even more than humans! However, if you’ve noticed your furry companion sleeping more than usual, it could be a cause for concern.
If your house cat’s sleeping habits suddenly change and don’t appear to have any other symptoms, it could signal an underlying health issue. In this article, we’ll look at the possible causes of why cats sleep so much and identify a cat’s regular sleep pattern.
Why Your Cat Is Sleeping So Much: 7 Possible Causes
Cats aren’t the most active creatures. Therefore, their small size and low energy levels mean that younger cats often spend most of the day sleeping; there’s likely no need to worry if your cat takes more than the average number of naps.
However, if you’ve noticed a sudden change in your cat’s sleeping habits, it could indicate an underlying health issue.
Cats Conserve Energy
Cats are natural predators, meaning they need to conserve their energy to hunt. Therefore, cats often sleep for extended periods to conserve energy to prepare for the next hunt or chase. This is why cats often wake up and become active within short bursts instead of constantly being awake and running about all day.
Kittens tend to sleep even more than adult cats, often snoozing up to 20 hours a day! This is because kittens have yet to learn hunting techniques or behavior and need extra rest to grow and develop properly.
Cats Are Nocturnal
Nocturnality is a trait found in many cats, where they become more active at night. This is likely because cats are descended from wildcats who hunted small prey during the dark hours, such as mice and other rodents.
Cats have adapted to human routines over the years and no longer hunt for food as much, although they still tend to be more active during night hours. As a result, you may find your cat sleeping more during daylight hours and becoming active in the evening instead.
Cats Can Get Bored
Cats, like humans, can become bored if they don’t have enough stimulation. If your cat is sleeping more than usual, it could be a sign that they need to be entertained or engaged in activities that stimulate them mentally and physically.
Try introducing toys, playtime sessions, and even food puzzles to help keep your cat active and alert during the day. This will also give them something to do when they’re not asleep!
Cats Experience Stress & Anxiety
Stress can result in cats sleeping more than usual as their bodies shut down to cope with the stressors around them. Cats are sensitive creatures and may experience anxiety from loud noises, changes in routine, new people or pets in the home, or even their environment.
If you notice your cat sleeping more than usual and displaying signs of stress (such as hiding, excessive meowing, or urinating outside the litter box), it’s important to take steps to help them feel calm and secure.
A Cats Age & Illness Can Increase Sleeping
Cats can become ill or suffer from chronic conditions as they age, increasing daytime sleepiness. Older cats may also need more rest due to their age and will therefore spend much of the day dozing off.
If your cat is sleeping more than usual and displaying other symptoms such as weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it may be time to take them to the vet for a check-up.
Parasites & Infections Can Affect A Cats Sleeping Habits
Parasites and infections can cause cats to become weak and exhausted, resulting in extra sleep during the day.
Fleas and ticks are common parasites that can cause anemia in cats due to blood loss, making them feel too tired to do anything else. Some viruses, bacteria, and fungi can also cause cats to become extremely tired as their bodies fight off the infection.
It’s vital to keep your cat up-to-date on vaccinations, flea treatments, and regular check-ups with the vet if you suspect any underlying health issues.
Cats Can Have Allergies & Sensitivities
Cats can suffer from allergies or sensitivities to certain environmental substances, such as pollen, chemicals, dust mites, and certain foods. If your cat is exposed to these triggers regularly, it may lead to fatigue and increased sleepiness during the day.
To help reduce the risk of allergies or other sensitivities in cats, ensure they are on a healthy diet free from preservatives and artificial ingredients. In addition, keep their bedding clean and well-ventilated, vacuum frequently to remove dust particles, and avoid using products containing strong fragrances or chemicals.
When Should I Worry About My Cat’s Sleep Habits?
If your cat is sleeping more than usual and showing other signs of illness or distress, it’s crucial to take them to the vet for a check-up. However, cats can hide their conditions very well; therefore, don’t wait until they show apparent symptoms before seeking help.
Here are some warning signs that your cat may need medical attention:
- Excessive sleeping and other symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Seeming uncomfortable when they wake up.
- Sleeping in strange places or having difficulty getting comfortable.
- Changes to their daily routine, such as decreased appetite and energy levels.
It’s also important to remember that cats typically sleep anywhere from 12-16 hours daily and may take short naps throughout the day. As long as your cat is eating, playing, and acting normally otherwise, there may not be any cause for concern.
Final Thoughts on Sleeping Cats
Figuring out why your cat is sleeping more than usual can be tricky! However, you’ll be better equipped to provide your pet with the care they need by understanding how much cats usually sleep and being aware of other possible causes, such as stress, boredom, allergies, and illness.
If your cat displays any of the warning signs mentioned above, take them to the vet for a check-up. Otherwise, ensure they get plenty of love and attention, and enjoy watching them snooze away in their favorite napping spots!
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