Kittens are bundles of energy—when they’re awake, that is. If you’ve noticed your kitten spends most of their time snoozing, you might wonder: Is this normal? The good news is, it’s completely normal for your kitten (and your adult cats, for that matter) to spend most of their time snoozing, so there’s usually no need to worry.
Let’s dive into why kittens sleep so much and when to watch for potential sleep issues, including expert insights from Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Why do cats sleep so much?
If it feels like your kitten is always in dreamland, it’s because cats sleep a lot—especially when they’re young. According to Dr. Liff, kittens typically sleep about 20 hours a day.
“Kittens are doing the entirety of their bodily growth in 10 to 12 months, so they have a lot of work to do and it makes them tired.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
The growth process requires a lot of energy, and sleep is essential for their immune system, physical development, and brain function. Much like human babies, kittens experience rapid growth during their first few months, and that means plenty of shut eye is necessary.
What are a kitten’s natural sleep patterns?
A kitten’s sleep patterns are influenced by their age, natural instincts, and environment. Kittens spend much of their time in light sleep, which allows them to wake up quickly if needed. However, they also experience deep sleep—the phase where their body undergoes crucial growth and repair.
Cats are also crepuscular—meaning they’re most active during dawn and dusk. These instincts come from their wild ancestors who hunted during these hours. So, don’t be surprised if your kitten is pouncing on toys at sunrise or sunset and then returning to their cat tree for another nap.
How does a kitten’s sleep change as they grow?
While kittens sleep a lot, Dr. Liff notes that their sleeping habits gradually change as they mature:
“The vast majority of a kitten’s development happens up to six months. After that initial growth period, you might notice them staying awake a bit longer and playing more actively.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
Though even as they transition into adult cats, they still love their naps. On average, adult cats sleep 18 to 22 hours a day. So, while your kitten might sleep a bit less as they grow older, their love for a cozy snooze will remain a lifelong trait.
Is it normal for kittens to sleep for long periods?
In most cases, yes. Long periods of sleep are perfectly normal for kittens. However, if your kitten seems excessively lethargic, unresponsive, or not interested in eating or playing, it might indicate a health problem.
Dr. Liff advises monitoring for the following red flags:
Unusual lethargy: If your kitten is difficult to wake or seems groggy even after rest, it could indicate an underlying issue.
Changes in behavior: A sudden shift in their activity level or personality might signal a problem.
Physical symptoms: Look out for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, which could indicate a more serious health problem.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to consult your vet, though Dr. Liff expresses that the vast majority of pet parent concerns over how much their kitten sleeps stems from not knowing what to expect when it comes to their kitten’s sleep behavior.
How can I create the ideal sleep environment for my kitten?
Creating a cozy, safe space for your kitten to rest is crucial for their well-being. While kittens don’t require the same level of training as dogs, there are still steps you can take to optimize their sleep schedule and help them thrive.
Help regulate their activity levels
Kittens often have bursts of energy, followed by long naps. To help them burn off energy, offer engaging toys, scratching posts, or food puzzles. These activities mimic their natural instincts and help them wind down when it’s time to rest.
Respect and support your kitten’s sleep schedule
If your kitten’s nocturnal antics are keeping you awake, consider scheduling interactive play sessions during the evening to tire them out. Automatic feeders can also be helpful for nighttime snacks, and make sure that they don’t wake you up with persistent meowing. If you find yourself feeling frustrated with your kittens sleeping patterns, Dr. Liff reminds new kitten parents that patience is key:
“I always tell my clients to keep in mind that they just met their pets. They just got into our homes, and getting them on the right schedule can take some time. Being patient with your kitten can be extremely helpful in the long-run.”
-Dr. Stephanie Liff
Create a cozy sleeping space
Kittens love comfort and security. Providing a soft bed, a quiet corner, or a cat tree with cozy nooks can make all the difference. These spaces allow them to feel safe and undisturbed during their naps.
Before we go…
Kittens need plenty of sleep to grow into healthy, happy cats. While their love for napping is usually fine, understanding their sleep patterns and knowing when to see a vet can help monitor their well-being.
As your kitten grows, adjust their environment and routines to meet their needs. And remember, having pet insurance can give you peace of mind as you navigate your kitten’s early months. Whether it’s a routine check-up or an unexpected visit to the vet, Lemonade’s pet insurance has you covered. Click below to get your free quote.
Like humans, kittens often feel sleepy after a meal because digesting food requires energy. This is completely normal, especially for growing kittens who need extra rest to support their development.
Why does my kitten twitch while sleeping?
Twitching during sleep is completely normal for kittens. They might be dreaming or their nervous system could be maturing. These small movements are a healthy part of their development and nothing to worry about.
Do cats sleep more when they’re older?
Yes, older cats and senior cats often sleep more than younger ones. As cats age, their energy levels decrease, and they naturally become less active. They may spend more time dozing to conserve energy and recover from daily activities.
Is it normal for my kitten to snore?
Snoring can be normal for some kittens, especially in breeds like Persians or if they’re in a funny sleeping position. However, if the snoring is loud or comes with breathing difficulties, consult your vet.
Why does my kitten sometimes sleep on me?
Kittens often nap on their owners because it provides warmth, comfort, and a sense of security. It’s also a way for them to bond with you. Enjoy these moments—they’re signs of trust and affection.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
Please note: Lemonade articles and other editorial content are meant for educational purposes only, and should not be relied upon instead of professional legal, insurance or financial advice. The content of these educational articles does not alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. While we regularly review previously published content to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date, there may be instances in which legal conditions or policy details have changed since publication. Any hypothetical examples used in Lemonade editorial content are purely expositional. Hypothetical examples do not alter or bind Lemonade to any application of your insurance policy to the particular facts and circumstances of any actual claim.
