Have you ever wondered where cats like to sleep? Do they need their own bed and how to choose a place for it? Are cats allowed to sleep with people? And, in general, how do these animals sleep?
Cats are fascinating creatures, known for their unique personalities and quirky behaviors. One of their most endearing habits is their love of sleeping.
You may have noticed that cats can sleep most of the time of the day (one can just be jealous). So the right place to sleep can be extremely important to them.
What’s amazing about cats is that they can sleep almost anywhere. Let’s try to figure that out.
Table of Contents:
- Why do cats sleep so much?
- What are the sleep phases in cats?
- What factors influence cat sleeping habits?
- Where do cats like to sleep inside the house?
- Can cats sleep in the same bed as me?
- Where should kittens sleep?
Why do cats sleep so much?
Does your cat seem lazy to you because he sleeps all the time? You probably shouldn’t worry about it prematurely. It does not mean that the cat is sick or very lazy.
Many owners notice that pets can sleep for about 16 hours each day. And some individuals may even sleep up to 20 hours out of 24. Why do cats sleep so much?
Cats are really considered some of the most sleepy animals due to their predatory nature.
Natural predators need more sleep to regain energy. One of the reasons we humans think our feline friends sleep so much is also because our sleep patterns don’t usually match up.
First of all, we should know that cats are twilight animals. This means that they do not lead a day or nightlife.
Maximum activity is noted in the morning before dawn and before sunset. This means that when most people want to sleep, well, or are still asleep, the cat begins to turn around!
Or vice versa, we do our business during the day and they are “napping” somewhere on the couch, shelf, or closet.
When you are most active (apparently it is, after all, during the day), cats are just saving their energy. In the wild, this served their ancestors well. After all, thanks to their remarkable night vision, the evening and morning hours provided excellent opportunities for hunting.
The fact that domestic cats were domesticated a very long time ago doesn’t mean they didn’t retain the habits of their wild ancestors at all.
But, the good news is that they can adapt to the rhythm of their owners’ lives.
At night I often hear cat paws stomping on the floor (like a herd of elephants), and someone jumping and meowing – in general, there are fun nights.
What are the sleep phases in cats?
Like humans, cats have distinct sleep phases that are crucial to their health and well-being. Understanding these phases can help you ensure that your feline friend gets the rest they need to stay healthy.
Non-REM Sleep
Non-REM (NREM) sleep is the first stage of the sleep cycle for cats. During this phase, cats are in a state of light sleep, and they can easily be awoken.
Their muscles are still active during NREM sleep, and they may twitch or move their legs. But, their heart rate and breathing slow down, and their body temperature drops.
Deep Sleep
After NREM sleep, cats enter a deeper sleep phase known as slow-wave sleep. During this phase, their muscles are relaxed, and their heart rate and breathing are slow and steady.
This is the stage where cats experience the most restorative sleep, and it’s crucial to their overall health.
REM Sleep
The final stage of the sleep cycle for cats is Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. During this phase, cats are in a state of deep sleep, and their muscles are completely relaxed.
However, their brain activity is high, and they may twitch or move their whiskers. This is the stage where cats dream, and it’s crucial to their cognitive and emotional development.
Sleep Duration and Pattern
Cats have unique sleep patterns. It involves cycling through these three stages many times throughout the day and night. On average, cats sleep for 12-16 hours per day, and they may sleep for up to 20 hours a day, depending on their age, activity level, and overall health.
While cats sleep, they may alternate between periods of deep sleep and light sleep, depending on their level of comfort and their surroundings.
Factors that Affect Sleep
Several factors can affect a cat’s sleep, including their age, activity level, and overall health. Kittens and senior cats tend to sleep more than adult cats, while cats that are highly active may need more sleep to rest and recover.
Additionally, environmental factors, such as noise and temperature, can affect a cat’s sleep quality. Ensuring that your cat has a comfortable and quiet sleeping area can help them get the rest they need.
In summary, understanding the sleep phases in cats is important for maintaining their health and well-being.
By providing a comfortable sleeping area and paying attention to their sleep patterns, you can ensure that your feline friend gets the rest they need to stay healthy and happy.
What factors influence cat sleeping habits?
Cats are unique creatures, and their sleeping habits can be influenced by a variety of factors. Understanding these factors can help you provide the ideal sleeping environment for your feline friend.
Age
Age is one of the biggest factors that can influence a cat’s sleeping habits. Kittens, for example, need more sleep than adult cats to support their growth and development.
Similarly, senior cats may sleep more than adult cats to conserve their energy and help maintain their overall health.
Activity Level
Cats that are highly active may need more sleep to rest and recover. If your cat spends a lot of time playing, exploring, or hunting, they may need more sleep than a sedentary cat.
Conversely, a cat that doesn’t get enough exercise may have trouble sleeping and may be more restless during the night.
Health
A cat’s overall health can also impact their sleeping habits. Cats that are in pain or discomfort may have trouble sleeping and may wake up frequently throughout the night.
Similarly, cats with chronic illnesses or medical conditions may need more sleep to support their immune system and help them heal.
Environment
The environment in which a cat sleeps can also impact their sleeping habits. Factors such as noise, light, and temperature can all affect a cat’s ability to sleep.
For example, a cat that sleeps in a noisy area may have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep, while a cat that sleeps in a warm and cozy bed may sleep more soundly.
Stress and Anxiety
Cats that are stressed or anxious may have trouble sleeping. Stressful events, such as moving to a new home or the introduction of a new pet, can disrupt a cat’s sleeping habits.
Additionally, cats that suffer from anxiety or behavioral issues may have trouble sleeping and may be more restless during the night.
By paying attention to these factors and providing a comfortable sleeping environment, you can help ensure that your feline friend gets the rest they need to stay healthy and happy.
Where do cats like to sleep inside the house?
Cats like to do two things: play and sleep.
When it’s time to take a nap, they can find some pretty amazing places. The main thing is to be able to curl up in a cuddle.
Cats like to sleep and do a lot of sleeping during the day. They usually find some sort of safe shelter up high, but they also really like dark and warm hiding places, especially in the winter.
The main reason for this is their ancient instinct and need to hide from predators.
Places where cats can sleep in the house (our list):
- INSIDE THE CLOSET, ON CLEAN CLOTHES. Clothing closets, especially those with fresh linens, are popular sleeping spots for cats. These cozy hiding places offer a sense of security and comfort that many cats find appealing. However, one downside of allowing your cat to sleep in the closet is the risk of cat hair getting on your clothing, which can be a nuisance.
- BAGS AND PACKAGES. Cats have a tendency to get carried away with just about anything, particularly when they’re young and nimble. They have a special fondness for paper and plastic bags, which they enjoy for more than just the crinkling sound they make. In fact, cats often believe that they’re cleverly hiding within the confines of these bags.
- ON THE BAD AND UNDER THE BLANKET. It’s not just humans who enjoy a comfortable bed with soft pillows. Cats are also fond of these cozy spots, as they offer warmth, softness, and a sense of security from being high above the ground. Additionally, cats may find comfort in the scent of their owners, which can contribute to their peace of mind. That’s perhaps why you might find your cat snuggled up on your favorite seat from time to time.
- ON THE COMPUTER, ON THE STOVE. Although cats aren’t known for their technical skills or culinary prowess, they are known to seek out warm spots, including the heat generated by electronic devices. If you notice your cat circling around you while you work on the computer, she may be looking for a cozy place to settle down for a nap.
- IN THE SINK. You’ve probably heard the saying that cats can be in “liquid form,” and it’s true that they have an uncanny ability to mold themselves to the shape of their surroundings. For instance, it’s not uncommon to find your cat curled up in a ball and fast asleep in the bathroom sink. Although no one really knows why cats are drawn to this particular spot, it’s clear that they find it comfortable and cozy.
IN MY DESK CHAIR. There is often a line of “people” who want to use it. The usual situation is that as soon as I get up from it, the chair is immediately occupied by one of the cats. I’ll say more: they “push” me, even when I sit on the chair. Fortunately, for me, there is still a good old stool.
Our cats are very fond of sleeping…
Can cats sleep in the same bed as me?
It seems to us that it is not only OK but also, wonderful when a cat sleeps with its owners!
Naturally, it cannot be “harmful” to them, but it can bring you moral and mental peace of mind.
The therapeutic properties of “cat therapy”, unfortunately, have not yet been officially confirmed.
Also, cats are a natural source of heat (their body temperature is higher).
Think of the moments, especially in the cold winter, when they crawl under your blankets. Also, cats can reduce stress, just take the cat in your arms, and “life gets better immediately.
Studies also suggest that people sleep much better when a cat or kitten is around.
If you let your cat sleep in bed with you, that’s fine. Just keep in mind that once you let a cat sleep in your bed, there may be no turning back.
However, if you change your mind, it will be much harder to get her to adjust to her own sleeping place.
You have to remember that cats are territorial creatures, and they won’t like it when you deny them access to their usual places.
By the way, you may also be surprised at how much space your cat will need when it stretches halfway across the bed into a “wiener.”
In such cases, we often have to put our feet up or turn on our sides.
A possible disadvantage of sleeping with a cat can be cases of animal allergies or its nocturnal activity. This can interfere with your sleep.
In addition, if the pet has any contagious diseases, such as fleas or ringworm, you may also be affected if you let it sleep with you.
Preferably, the animal should be healthy, but even if not, who’s going to chase it out of bed?
For further reading:
15 Feline Sweethearts: Meet the Most Affectionate Cat Breeds
The Ultimate Guide to Bringing Home Your New Kitten
What Food Is Dangerous for Cats (Top 11 Toxic Human Foods)
Where should kittens sleep?
A kitten must be cozy, warm, and safe while sleeping. Our domestic cats’ instincts are borrowed from their wild ancestors.
Their primary need is to feel safe from predators, even when they are sleeping peacefully in your home.
And so, a new tenant in the house is, of course, a very responsible moment.
If you are getting a new family member, a great option would be to provide him or her with a comfortable little cat bed, basket, or the same box with a blanket or rags right away.
If the bed or cot is a little big for your kitty, that’s okay – let it be “growing”.
In the meantime, you can add a rolled-up soft blanket to it and thus make it a little cozier. Well, and to decorate the interior of your home.
If the house is cold, it is desirable to give the “new tenants” a heating pad as a bonus. As an option, it can even be a simple bottle of warm water.
Once the kitten gets used to the house, he will decide by himself where it is best to sleep and you will soon find out about it, and of course, you will see.
For further reading!
Conclusion about cats’ sleep
Cats are known for their love of sleeping, and understanding their sleeping habits is important to keep them healthy and happy.
Providing a comfortable sleeping area that fits your cat’s needs is key to ensuring they get the rest they need. Whether it’s a cat bed, a cardboard box, or a sunny windowsill, cats will find the perfect spot to catch some Zs.
And where do your cats sleep? Feel free to write in the comments 🐱.
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