Why Is My Cat Always Sleeping? 

It’s 2 PM. Your cat is curled up in a sunbeam, barely twitching a whisker. By 4 PM, they’ve shifted to another spot for more of the same. If you're wondering, "Does my cat do anything but sleep?" — the short answer is: yes, but sleeping is one of their favorite things. 

How Much Do Cats Sleep?

Most adult cats sleep 12–16 hours a day, and some cats — especially kittens and seniors — can clock 18–20 hours of snooze time. This might seem excessive to us, but for cats, it’s completely normal.

But why do they sleep so much?

The Science Behind Feline Sleep

Cats are what we call crepuscular animals — meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. This pattern comes from their wild ancestors, who hunted small prey like rodents and birds that are most active at those times.

Hunting uses a lot of energy — even for domestic cats. While your modern housecat doesn’t need to chase its dinner anymore, the biological rhythm remains. So, they sleep to conserve energy, preparing for the next “hunt,” even if it’s just chasing a toy mouse.

Fun fact: Cats experience both light sleep and deep REM sleep, just like humans. That’s why you might see their ears flick or paws twitch — they’re dreaming!

Is It Just Sleep — Or Something More?

Sleep is healthy. But too much sleep — or changes in your cat’s sleeping patterns — can be a red flag.

Here are some signs that your cat’s sleepiness might be due to an underlying issue:

Watch for:

• Sleeping more than usual suddenly

• Skipping meals or showing no interest in treats

• Not playing or responding to their favorite toys

• Hiding in unusual spots

• Becoming unusually aggressive, withdrawn, or clingy

• Breathing heavily or making noises while sleeping

Cats are very good at hiding pain or illness, so even subtle changes matter.

When Should I See a Vet?

If your cat:

• Is lethargic (tired + inactive) for more than 24–48 hours

• Shows other signs of illness (vomiting, diarrhea, limping, etc.)

• Seems “off” to you — trust your instincts!

Bring them in for a veterinary exam. Common issues that can cause excessive sleep or lethargy include:

• Pain or arthritis

• Infections (like respiratory illness)

• Chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes

• Stress or depression (especially in indoor cats)

What You Can Do at Home:

• Create a cozy but stimulating environment: Provide sunny napping spots and interactive toys

• Keep a routine: Feed, play, and cuddle at regular times

• Track changes: Write down sleep habits and behavior daily if you’re concerned
  
  

In Summary

Cats love to sleep — and most of the time, it's totally normal. But you know your cat best. If their sleeping habits suddenly change, or they’re acting unusual, don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet. At Mayo Vet Care, we’re here to help you keep your feline friend happy, healthy, and well-rested.