Cats are known for their long naps and their ability to fall asleep at any time and place. But how many hours do cats actually sleep a day? And why do they sleep so much? In this article, we answer these questions and provide tips to improve your cat's sleeping pattern.
How much does a cat sleep?
Your cat's sleeping pattern changes throughout its life. Young kittens sleep almost all day (20 - 24 hours), adult cats sleep an average of 15 hours a day, and senior cats (from about 11 years of age) sleep almost 20 hours a day. People sleep an average of 8 hours a night, more or less at one stretch.
Cats, however, have a different sleep rhythm than humans. They divide their sleep over several periods during the day and night. Cats have two types of sleep: light sleep and deep sleep. Light sleep lasts about 15 to 30 minutes at a time and is characterized by rapid eye movements, muscle twitches and sounds. Deep sleep lasts about 5 minutes at a time and is characterized by complete relaxation, slow breathing and snoring.
Why do cats sleep so much?
There are several reasons why cats sleep so much. One important reason is that cats are predators that use a lot of energy while hunting, playing or fighting. Getting plenty of sleep allows them to replenish their energy stores and be ready for action when needed. Cats also have a higher metabolism than humans, which means they burn more calories and thus require more rest. Another reason cats sleep so much is that they adapt to their environment. Cats are especially active during dusk and dawn, when their prey are also active. This is called crepuscular behavior. However, as pets, cats also adapt to their owners' rhythms, sometimes sleeping more during the day or at night.
How can you improve your cat's sleeping pattern?
Although cats sleep a lot, this does not mean they always sleep well. There are several factors that can affect the quality of your cat's sleep, such as stress, noise, temperature or health problems. To make sure your cat sleeps well, you can follow the following tips:
- Provide a comfortable and quiet place for your cat to sleep
- Give your cat plenty of toys and attention to stimulate him mentally and physically
- Maintain a regular feeding and play schedule for your cat
- Avoid sudden change
- Consult a veterinarian if you notice your cat sleeping too much or too little
Does my cat sleep adequately at the hotel?
Unlike in humans, the mattress and pillow in cat hotels are always soft and always lie well. A cat can sleep well almost anywhere and in any position, as long as they can tuck themselves away in a den or basket so they lie quietly.
This is certainly possible in the Luxury Cat Hotel, where there are more than 45 lying and hiding places, so they can always find just that spot where they can have a wonderful sleep.
