Are you noticing your cat sleeping a lot more in the colder months and have found yourself wondering, do cats sleep more in the winter?
You aren't alone, as many pet parents notice their furry friends lounging a lot more in the winter months! Let's talk about why that is and when you should be concerned about your cat's sleeping habits.
Do Cats Sleep More in Winter?
Yes, cats often sleep more during the colder months. While they typically sleep 12–16 hours a day, some may rest up to 20 hours in winter
Cats are naturally long sleepers and tend to take quite a few naps throughout the day. Here are some reasons why they may sleep even longer in winter!
Reasons Why Cats Might Sleep More in Winter
Why Cats Sleep More in Winter
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Shorter Days / Less Sunlight: Reduced daylight affects a cat’s circadian rhythm, signaling their body that it’s time to rest more. Less light naturally encourages more napping.
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Lower Temperatures: Colder weather makes cats conserve energy to maintain body heat. Sleeping more helps them stay warm and cozy.
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Energy Conservation: Cats are instinctively wired to conserve energy when prey is less abundant in the wild. This behavior persists even for indoor cats, manifesting as longer naps.
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Natural Instincts: Napping through the colder, darker months is part of a cat’s natural behavior, inherited from wild ancestors who would conserve energy when hunting was harder
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Age & Health Factors: Older cats or cats with certain health conditions may naturally sleep more, and winter can accentuate this behavior due to lower energy needs.
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.
When Should I Be Concerned My Cat is Sleeping Too Much?
If you find that your cat is sleeping far more than what you think is normal, it may be time to take them to the vet for a checkup. It may be nothing, but it's always working checking out!
Bring your cat to the vet if they are sleeping far more than they normally do, they have appetite change or loss, or are exhibiting behavioral changes.
Tips to Support Your Cat in Winter
It's nice to have a little support in those cold winter months, so here are a few ways that you can help your cat out for those winter cat naps!
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Create Warm Resting Spots: Provide cozy blankets or heated beds to encourage restful sleep.
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Maintain a Routine: Keep feeding and playtimes consistent to help regulate your cat's internal clock.
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Monitor Health: Regularly check your cat's weight and behavior for any signs of health issues, including sleeping too often.
Do Cats Get the Winter Blues?
Cats may get the winter blues, similar to us humans! Reduced daylight and colder temperatures may affect them in similar ways that it does yourself.
Be sure to provide your cat with lots of enrichment and stimulation in the winter months to keep them happy.
Final Thoughts: Cats Sleeping in the Winter
It’s completely normal for cats to sleep more in winter. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and reduced activity all encourage extra rest. Most of the time, this behavior is healthy and simply part of your cat’s natural rhythm. Keep an eye out for sudden changes in sleep patterns, lethargy, or other signs of illness, and contact your vet if anything seems unusual. By understanding why cats sleep more in winter, you can ensure they stay cozy, happy, and healthy all season long.
