Have you ever watched your cat sleep and wished you could nap like that? Cats are definitely good at sleeping, and they do it a lot. But their sleep habits can change, sometimes it's because of the time of year, and sometimes it's just because they're getting older.
Let's talk about what's normal for cats when they sleep and what might be something to worry about, especially during the winter.
How Cats Normally Sleep
Cats sleep a lot, kind of like they have their own little sleep schedule throughout the day. They go through different sleep stages, just like we do – sometimes they're in a light sleep, a deep sleep, and sometimes they're just waking up.
On average, a cat will sleep more than half of the day, usually in short naps that last about an hour and a half because they're naturally programmed to sleep during the day and be active at night – it's an old instinct. They also sleep a lot to save energy. If your cat seems to be sleeping even more lately, it could be because of the winter.
When cats are in their deepest sleep, it's similar to when humans dream. Their bodies are very still, but you might see their legs twitch, or their ears, tail, or whiskers move. It's like they're acting out their dreams while they sleep! It's totally normal.
Do Cats Sleep More in Winter?
The answer may be yes. If you live somewhere with short, cold days in the winter, your cat might sleep more than usual.
The amount of sleep cats get is affected by a few things, like how much light there is and how warm it is. When it gets colder and darker, their bodies might tell them to sleep more, it's like their bodies naturally want to save energy when there's less food around. Cats don't actually hibernate like some animals, but they do like to curl up and snooze a lot when it's chilly.
If your cat seems extra sleepy this winter, it could also be because they're not sleeping as well. When it's too cold, some studies show that cats can wake up more easily during their deep sleep. This means their sleep isn't as restful, so they might sleep longer to make up for it. Older cats are especially likely to sleep more in the winter because they don't sleep as deeply when it's cold.
Your Routine Can Change Your Cat's Sleep
If the shorter days are making you go to bed earlier, that can also affect your cat. They might start sleeping more because you're in bed and they want to snuggle up with you. Cats are really good at knowing where you are in the house and they'll often come find you, especially if you're in a cozy spot like your bed.
Cats Often Sleep Inside to Stay Warm During Winter
Cats need to stay warm, as their normal body temperature is usually between 99.5 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit (37.2 - 39.2 degrees Celcius). If a cat's temperature drops below 99 degrees, they could get frostbite or hypothermia, which is very dangerous. So, to stay nice and warm, your cat will probably spend a lot more time inside during the winter, sleeping and cuddling up to something warm.
Sometimes, that warm thing is you. You might notice your cat sleeping close to you more often in the winter because your body gives off heat. They also like to sleep near vents that blow warm air and on top of heaters to stay cozy when it's cold.
How Can I Know if My Cat Feels Cold?
It's not always easy to know what your cat wants. They can't just tell you they're cold, so you have to pay attention to what they do.
If your cats are bunching up close together, they might be trying to share heat. If your cat keeps curling up small in a warm spot, it could be that your house is too cold. When cats sleep right next to heaters, it means they are feeling cold and want to be warmer. Some cats might even get a little angry if they are too cold.
Do Cats Get the Winter Blues?
When cats sleep more, it can seem like they're feeling sad. People often have changes in their mood during the winter, and we know a lot about this. However, we haven't studied how the seasons affect cats very much.
Cats and humans have some similar brain chemicals, so maybe their mood also changes with the seasons, just like ours might. However, experts don't think cats get the same kind of “winter blues” that people get. It's possible that we feel gloomy when it's cold and dark, and then think our cats feel the same way.
When to Worry About Your Cat's Sleep
Because cats sleep so much, it can be hard to know when to be concerned. Luckily, after you've had your cat for a while, you'll get used to their sleeping habits. You'll know if they're usually very active or more relaxed, and when they like to nap during the day.
Once you know your cat's sleep routine, you can watch for any big changes. If their sleep patterns change a lot, it could mean there's a health problem, and you should talk to your vet. If you've just brought a new cat home, it might be harder to know what's normal for them.
Usually, a cat that's napping will wake up if you try to wake them. They might not jump right up and start playing, but they should open their eyes and look at you if make a noise nearby or touch them.
If your cat is sleeping so deeply that they don't respond when you try to wake them, that's a reason to worry. Also, a normal cat should be awake at least a few times during the day. If your cat has been sleeping for 12 hours or more without moving, it could mean there's a health issue, and you should call your vet as soon as possible.
