Why does my cat sleep so much?

Your cat is probably a real sleep pro! Did you know that cats sleep an average of 10 to 13 hours a day? That means they spend almost half their lives sleeping. Exactly how much your cat sleeps depends on several factors. We'll tell you more about this in this blog post.

A kitten's sleep needs.

Kittens need more sleep than adult cats because they're developing rapidly. In the first three weeks of life, kittens sleep a whopping 20 hours a day! This sleep is essential for the growth and development of their brain, bones, muscles, and nervous system. Growth hormone is released during sleep, making these rest periods crucial. So it's important not to disturb your kitten while it's sleeping. After all, all that growing is hard work!

As your kitten gets older, they'll gradually need less sleep. From about three months old, kittens sleep an average of 13 to 16 hours a day. Like dogs, cats don't sleep in one long period, but spread out throughout the day.

Other factors that affect a cat's sleep.

Your cat's age is one of the most important factors influencing its sleep behavior. Younger kittens and older cats generally sleep more than middle-aged cats. Their interaction with you as their owner also plays a role. If your cat is very attached to you, they will adjust their sleep patterns to your rhythm.

The company of other animals also has an impact. Does your cat live with another cat or a dog? This can affect their sleeping habits. Always make sure there are several comfortable sleeping spots in your home, so your cat can find a place to retreat to.

The season also affects how much your cat sleeps. In summer, the heat can cause them to sleep more than in winter. Furthermore, artificial light sources, such as indoor lamps, can disrupt your cat's circadian rhythm, which can also affect their sleep behavior.

Is my cat sleeping too little?

If your cat suddenly sleeps significantly less, this could indicate an underlying health problem. It's important to be alert to the following signs:

• Lethargy and lack of interest: If your cat or kitten is not only sleeping a lot but is also lethargic and shows no interest in playing or eating, it is wise to contact your vet.
• Restless sleep: Does your cat jerk, groan, or show other signs of discomfort while sleeping? This could indicate pain or a medical condition.
• Changed sleep patterns: If your cat suddenly sleeps much more or much less than normal, this could be a sign of a health problem.
• Different sleeping spots: Is your cat suddenly sleeping in different places than usual? This could mean he's not feeling well or experiencing discomfort.

For these reasons, it's important to closely monitor your cat or kitten's behavior. If in doubt, a visit to the vet is always recommended.